Puri

Puri is a beautiful coastal city in Odisha, known for its golden beaches and rich cultural heritage. It is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites and attracts devotees and tourists alike. The city is famous for its temples, festivals, and serene coastal views.

Many travellers include Puri in their Odisha Tour Packages because it offers a mix of spiritual experiences and leisure activities. The Jagannath Temple, one of India’s most revered temples, is the city’s main attraction. Apart from religious sites, Puri also has local markets, traditional handicrafts, and lively streets that make exploring the city fun.

Puri is also popular for its calm beaches, colourful festivals, and seafood cuisine. Visitors can enjoy the sun, sand, and culture in one trip. Its spiritual and scenic charm make it a must-visit destination for travellers looking to experience both devotion and relaxation.

Best Time to Visit Puri:

The Best Time to Visit Puri is from October to February. During this time, the weather is cool and pleasant, ideal for sightseeing and beach activities. The famous Rath Yatra festival usually falls during this period, attracting thousands of devotees and tourists. Summers (March-June) are hot and humid, while the monsoon season (July-September) brings heavy rainfall, which may disrupt travel plans.

How to Reach Puri:

1. By Air:

Direct Flight

1. Departure City: Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore
2. Arrival City & Airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar
3. Time Taken: Around 2-3 hours from Delhi/Mumbai, 1.5-2 hours from Kolkata
4. Airlines: IndiGo, Air India, Vistara, GoAir

Connecting Flight

1. Departure City: Chennai, Hyderabad, Kochi
2. Arrival City & Airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar
3. Layover Cities: Kolkata, Bangalore
4. Time Taken: 4-6 hours, including layover
5. Airlines: IndiGo, Air India, GoAir

2. By Road:

Puri is well-connected by road from major cities in Odisha and neighbouring states. Visitors can drive via NH16 or take state-run and private buses from Bhubaneswar, Kolkata, or Vishakhapatnam. The road journey offers scenic views of the Eastern Ghats and coastal plains, making it a pleasant drive.

3. By Rail:

Puri has excellent railway connectivity with direct trains from major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Chennai. The Puri Railway Station is just a few kilometres from the city centre, and travellers can easily hire taxis, auto-rickshaws, or use local buses to reach hotels and tourist spots.

Places to Visit in Puri:

Puri is famous for its temples, beaches, and cultural attractions. Here are the top Places To Visit in Puri

1. Jagannath Temple: A historic and sacred temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath. It is one of India’s Char Dham pilgrimage sites and draws devotees year-round.
2. Puri Beach: A golden sand beach ideal for morning walks, sunbathing, and enjoying local snacks. It is also a perfect place to watch the sunset.
3. Konark Sun Temple: Located near Puri, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its chariot-shaped architecture and detailed carvings.
4. Chilika Lake: A nearby brackish water lagoon, perfect for bird watching and boat rides. It is home to many migratory birds, including flamingos.
5. Gundicha Temple: Another important religious site visited during the Rath Yatra festival. It is often included in Puri travel itineraries as part of Puri Tourism, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike for its spiritual and historical significance.