The City of Jagannath: PURI

The ancient city of Puri represents a kaleidoscopic impression of Indian architecture, temples and heritage. Situated in the state of Orissa, Puri is of great interest for people seeking to learn about Indian culture. The main two forces that captures a travellers vision is the majestic Jagannath temple and the Sea. So pack your bags choose from a myriad of Puri Tour Packages to be a part of the marvellous experience. The legends associated with the origin of Jagannath temple add mysterious feel to the city. It is believed that the image of Jagannath was originally found near a fig tree in the form of a precious Blue Jewel. Later King Indradyumna of Malwa found a floating log in the sea in Puri of which he wanted to build an idol. A mysterious old man agreed to carve idol out of the log, on a condition that no one would open the doors of a closed room where he was working, if opened he would leave the work incomplete. However out of curiosity he King opened the door, and the sculptor disappeared leaving the idols incomplete. The temple holds wooden idol of the three deities: Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra.

Places of Interest:

Jagannath Temple

 

 

It is one of biggest temple in Orissa. The majestic structure is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an avatar of Lord Krishna. The temple was built in 12th century AD and portrays perfect example of the emergence of temple during the Kalinga period. It is a huge temple and is composed of four chambers. Apart from the main temple, there are nearly 120 small temples and shrines in the periphery area. It is believed that Lord Jagannath is served with 60 varieties of food daily as a part of bhog.

Gundicha Temple

 

 

Situated near to the Jagganth temple is this complex, constructed in the 16th century. It is believed that the Gundicha temple is housed by Lord Krishna’s aunt. The attraction of temple is its huge dome that holds wheel of Lord Vishnu.

Puri Beaches:

 

You can spend some time relaxing on the beaches in Puri. An early morning walk on the shore and beautiful sunrise would win your heart. During Kartik Purnima, people from all over the country come to take a holy dip.

Festivals:

 

 

The most celebrated festival in Puri is the Rath Yatra, which takes place in June or July every year. During this festival huge chariots are decorated and are placed by idols of Jaggnath, Subhadra and Balabhadra. The chariots are pulled by a million of devotees through the Grand Road to GundichaGhar where idols take rest for a week and are then taken back on the same chariot. The Puri beach festival takes place in the month of February where artists from all over the country create superb sculptures on the beach using sand and colours.

Puri is a perfect depiction of multi-culturalism of India. Its splendorous beauty captivates heart of the tourists and compels them to visit again. Your trip to India is incomplete if you do not experience the unique spirit of the city.