Top Tourist Places in Puri

Top 10 Places to Visit in Puri with Family

• Jagannath Temple: A sacred place dedicated to Lord Jagannath, known for its annual Rath Yatra.
• Puri Beach: A famous beach ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and sandcastle building.
• Konark Sun Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site notable for its stunning architecture and historical importance.
• Chilika Lake: The largest coastal lagoon in India offering breathtaking views and bird watching opportunities.
• Nandankanan Zoo: A zoo and botanical garden home to numerous species including endangered white tigers.
• Sakshigopal Temple: A revered site believed to grant wishes and known for its beautiful architecture.
• Swargadwar Beach: A serene spot with beautiful sunsets, perfect for relaxing family time.
• Balukhand-Konark Wildlife Sanctuary: A nature reserve home to diverse flora and fauna.
• Sea Beach Market: An exciting place to shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs.
• Chandrabhaga Beach: Another tranquil beach noted for its natural beauty and cultural significance.

Best Time to Visit Top Tourist Places in Puri

The ideal time to explore Puri is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant. The annual Rath Yatra in June to July showcases the cultural vibrancy of the town.

Best Weather and Climate to Visit Puri with Temperature Details

Puri has a tropical climate with hot summers, pleasant winters, and occasional monsoons. Temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F) in summer, while winter temperatures drop to around 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F).

What is the Best and Worst Time of the Year to Visit Puri

The best time to visit is from October to March, while the worst time is during the peak summer months of April to June when temperatures soar.

Top Places to Visit in Puri with Kids

• Jagannath Temple
• Nandankanan Zoo
• Balukhand-Konark Wildlife Sanctuary
• Puri Beach
• Chilika Lake

Top Tourist Places in Puri for Couples

• Konark Sun Temple
• Swargadwar Beach
• Chandrabhaga Beach
• Puri Beach at Sunset
• Relaxing at Local Cafés

Top 10 Tourist Places in Puri with Distance from Main Railway Station or Airport

• Jagannath Temple: 1 km from Puri Railway Station
• Puri Beach: 1 km from Puri Railway Station
• Konark Sun Temple: 35 km from Puri Railway Station
• Chilika Lake: 100 km from Puri Railway Station
• Nandankanan Zoo: 70 km from Puri Railway Station
• Sakshigopal Temple: 20 km from Puri Railway Station
• Swargadwar Beach: 2 km from Puri Railway Station
• Balukhand-Konark Wildlife Sanctuary: 15 km from Puri Railway Station
• Sea Beach Market: 1 km from Puri Railway Station
• Chandrabhaga Beach: 35 km from Puri Railway Station

Top 10 Activities to Do in Puri

• Participate in the Rath Yatra
• Attend the evening aarti at Jagannath Temple
• Enjoy water sports at Puri Beach
• Explore local cuisine at the seaside shacks
• Bird watching at Chilika Lake
• Visit local art galleries
• Relax at spas and wellness centers
• Discover the local markets for crafts
• Take photography classes by the beach
• Participate in yoga sessions at beachfront resorts

Top 10 Famous Places & Dishes to Eat in Puri

• Puri Jagannath Prasad: The sacred food offered in Jagannath Temple, famous for its unique taste.
• Khichdi: A popular dish made with rice and lentils.
• Chhena Poda: A baked cheese dessert that you must taste.
• Dalma: A dish made of lentils and vegetables.
• Fish Curry: Freshwater fish cooked with exotic spices.
• Puri (the food): Not to be confused with the place, this deep-fried bread is a must-try!
• Odisha-style Mutton Curry: A savory mutton curry cooked uniquely.
• Sweets from Puri: Various local sweets, including Rasgulla and Sandesh.
• Street Food: Don’t miss out on Dahi Vada and Bhelpuri.
• Local Fruit Juices: Fresh coconut water and sugarcane juice are refreshing!

10 Best Hotels and Resorts in Puri

• Taj Exotica Resort & Spa: Luxury beachfront resort offering top-class amenities.
• The Mayfair Heritage: A premium hotel with heritage architecture.
• Hotel Sandesh: A cozy hotel known for its hospitality.
• Seaside Residency: A mid-range hotel with modern conveniences.
• Golden Sand Resort: A family-friendly resort with a variety of activities.
• Hotel Shakti International: A well-rated hotel situated conveniently.
• Hotel Holiday Resort: A good value hotel with sea view rooms.
• Puri Golden Beach: Simple yet comfortable accommodation near the beach.
• Hotel Marino Beach: Offers rooms with an ocean view.
• The Chariot Resort & Spa: A spa resort ideal for relaxation.

10 Budget and Cheap Hotels in Puri

• Hotel Krushna: Budget-friendly with essential amenities.
• Hotel Sonali: Known for affordability and comfort.
• Surya Beach Inn: Simple stay close to the beach.
• Puri Beach Hotel: Provides basic facilities at reasonable rates.
• Hotel New Shree Krishna: Affordable hotel with good reviews.
• Chakra Vyuha: A no-frills accommodation option.
• Hotel Bholanath: Budget hotel with family rooms.
• Puri Palace: Basic amenities at low prices.
• Hare Rama Inn: Friendly service and budget pricing.
• Hotel Gourang: A satisfactory stay within a budget.

Top 10 Hidden Gems and Places to Explore in Puri

• Violin Beach: A hidden treasure for peace seekers.
• Ramchandi Beach: Less crowded with beautiful sunsets.
• Balukhand Beach: A pristine beach worth a visit.
• Talasari Beach: Known for serene beauty and solitude.
• Astaranga Beach: Offers tranquility and beauty ideal for picnics.
• Khandagiri and Udayagiri Caves: Ancient caves with historical significance.
• Alarnath Temple: Lesser-known temple for a peaceful visit.
• Raghurajpur Artist Village: Experience traditional arts and crafts.
• Brahmagiri: For cultural explorers and enthusiasts.
• Chandrabhaga Sun Temple: To capture less-touristy photography spots.

Nightlife in Puri

Puri is not traditionally known for a vibrant nightlife scene, but there are cozy beach cafés and a few bars where you can relax. The beach itself is perfect for evening strolls and enjoying tranquil sunsets.

How Many Days Should I Spend in Puri

A stay of 3 to 5 days is recommended to explore the city’s major attractions adequately and enjoy its culture, nature, and cuisine.

Transportation Options within the City

Puri has various local transportation options including auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, and local buses. Renting a bike or car is also advisable for convenience.

Local Customs and Etiquette

When visiting temples, dress modestly and remove your shoes. Refrain from smoking in public places and respect local traditions, especially during festivals.

Local Festivals and Events

Don’t miss the famous Rath Yatra, celebrated with great enthusiasm each summer. Other notable festivals include the Konark Dance Festival and various temple fairs throughout the year.

History of Puri

Puri has deep historical roots that date back to ancient times as a significant religious center. It played a pivotal role in the medieval period as part of Kalinga kingdom, and is home to the famous Jagannath Temple.

Tips for Solo Travelers

Stay connected with friends or family by sharing your itinerary. Take local tours, which offer a great way to meet people, and always respect personal space and privacy in crowded areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the must-visit places in Puri?

  Jagannath Temple, Puri Beach, Konark Sun Temple, and Chilika Lake are among the top attractions.

• Is Puri safe for solo travelers?

  Yes, Puri is generally safe. However, like any tourist destination, it is advisable to be cautious and aware of your surroundings.

• What should I pack for my trip to Puri?

  Light clothing for the beach, swimwear, comfortable walking shoes, and modest garments for temple visits.

• Are there any vegetarian restaurants in Puri?

  Yes, many restaurants in Puri serve delicious vegetarian dishes, especially considering its religious significance.

• Can I find ATMs and banks easily in Puri?

  Yes, Puri has multiple ATMs and banks scattered throughout the city.

• How do I reach Puri?

  Puri is accessible by train, flight (nearest airport is Bhubaneswar, about 60 km away), and road.

• What activities can I do at Puri Beach?

  You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, parasailing, and delicious street food along the coastline.

• Are there any landmarks for history enthusiasts?

  The Konark Sun Temple and historical caves like Astaranga are great for exploration.

• What festivals should I attend in Puri?

  Rath Yatra is a must-see, along with other local festivals like the Konark Dance Festival.

• Can I shop for local handicrafts in Puri?

  Yes, Puri has vibrant markets where you can buy local crafts, textiles, and souvenirs.