Overview

Puri is one of the four holy dhamas of India-Puri, Dwarka, Rameswaram, and Badarinatha-and it is considered that a pilgrimage of the temples of India is not complete without making the journey to Puri. Puri is located on the eastern side of India in the province of Orissa. Lying on the coastal strip in the Puri district, the destination is 60 kilometre from the city of Bhubaneswar. This coastal city lies on the golden triangle of Orissa, connecting with Konark and Bhubaneswar.  

The fame of Puri emanates most from the Jagannath Temple which contributed the word ‘Juggernaut' to the English language.Puri is called Sri Purusottama Dham or Martya Vaikuntha, the abode of Lord Vishnu on earth. Other names are Sri ksetra (best of all sacred centers), Purusottama Ksetra (the abode of the supreme being), Nilachal, Nalagiri, Sankha Ksetra, and Jagannatha Dhama. Puri is about 2km wide and 4 km long.

One of the major highlights of Puri is Rath Yatra (Car or Chariot festival), which is hosted every year in the city. The Puri extravaganza, Jagannath Rath Yatra, is held in the months of June and July. Pilgrims and tourists throng to the destination to cherish the international event besides an annual Puri Beach Festival held in the month of November

Well-known attractions in and around, Puri features Chilka Lake, a large inland salt-water lake, Puri Beach, Gundicha Ghar and the Childlike Wildlife Sanctuary.

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