The Jagannath Temple, one of the most sacred temples in India, is located in the centre of Puri. The temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple has four entry gates, and the main gate is known as the Singhadwara. The temple architecture is unique and is famous all over the world. The temple complex houses many small temples, shrines, and pillars. Visitors can take part in the morning and evening 'aarti' ceremonies, which are spectacular. The temple is open between 5:00 am to 11:00 pm, and it is best to visit early in the morning to avoid the crowd.
Puri Beach is one of the most stunning beaches on the east coast of India. It is located near the Jagannath Temple and the main bazaar area. The beach offers beautiful views of the sunrise and sunset and is usually less crowded early in the morning. Visitors can take a stroll, enjoy the sea breeze or enjoy local street food at the nearby stalls. Adventurous travellers can indulge in water sports such as swimming, surfing, and horse riding. For those interested in spirituality, there's a daily evening aarti ceremony, which happens on the beach. The beach is open to visitors from 5:00 am to 8:00 pm.
The Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most famous tourist attractions near Puri. It is dedicated to the Sun God and is designed in the form of a chariot. The temple architecture is truly unique. Its walls are adorned with beautiful carvings and sculptures. The temple was built in the 13th century and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984. The temple is open from sunrise to sunset, but visitors must check the opening times due to the pandemic.
Chilika Lake, located near Puri, is one of the largest saltwater lagoons in Asia. It is a shallow lake, and it is home to a wide variety of birds and other aquatic animals. Visitors can enjoy a boat ride on the lake, watch the dolphins, or take a walk along the walking trails. The lake is also known for its seafood, and visitors can try fresh fish and prawns at the local stalls. The lake is open to visitors between 6 am and 6 pm.
If you have more time, you can explore the nearby villages and towns such as Raghurajpur, which is famous for its art and crafts. The place is 16.9 miles from Puri and can be reached by taxi or local bus. You can also visit the Lokanath Temple, which is 2.7 miles from the Jagannath Temple. It is considered one of the most important Shaiva shrines in India. Due to COVID-19, visitors must wear masks and follow social distancing protocols.