Jagannath Puri is one of the most sacred and spectacular destinations in India, where you can experience the divine grace of Lord Jagannath, the Lord of the Universe. Jagannath Puri is one of the four dhams of India, the holy place that every Hindu should visit at least once in their lifetime.
Jagannath Puri is also famous for its beautiful beaches, ancient temples, and vibrant festivals. If you are planning to visit this holy city, here are some tips and suggestions to make your trip perfect.
The Best Season to Visit Jagannath Puri
The best season to visit Jagannath Puri is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and comfortable. The temperature ranges from 15°C to 30°C during this time, and the humidity is low. You can enjoy sightseeing and outdoor activities without any hassle.
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The winter season also coincides with some of the major festivals of Jagannath Puri, such as Kartik Purnima, Chandan Yatra, and Makar Sankranti.
The summer season from April to June is very hot and humid, with temperatures soaring up to 45°C. The summer season is also the peak season for pilgrims, as it marks the occasion of the famous Ratha Yatra festival, which takes place in June or July.
The Ratha Yatra festival is the highlight of Jagannath Puri when the deities of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are taken out in grand chariots along the Grand Road to the Gundicha Temple. Millions of devotees flock to Jagannath Puri to witness this spectacle of faith and joy. If you want to attend this festival, you should book your accommodation and transportation well in advance.
The monsoon season from July to September brings heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, which may disrupt your travel plans. The monsoon season also coincides with some of the minor festivals of Jagannath Puri, such as Bahuda Yatra, Niladri Bije, and Jhulan Yatra.
The Best Attractions to Visit in Jagannath Puri
The best attractions to visit in Jagannath Puri are:
- Jagannath Temple: This is the main attraction of Jagannath Puri, where you can have a darshan of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra. The temple is a magnificent example of Kalinga architecture, with four towering gates, a huge courtyard, and a 65-meter-high spire. The temple also has many other shrines dedicated to various gods and goddesses. You can also partake in the Mahaprasad, which is the sacred food offered to the Lord and then distributed among the devotees.
- Puri Beach: This is one of the finest beaches in India, where you can relax, sunbathe, swim, surf, boating, etc. You can also enjoy the scenic views of the Bay of Bengal and the sunrise and sunset. The beach is also dotted with many stalls selling souvenirs, handicrafts, snacks, etc.
- Chilika Lake: This is the largest brackish water lagoon in Asia and a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers. The lake is home to many migratory birds such as flamingos, pelicans, cranes, etc., as well as dolphins and other aquatic animals. You can take a boat ride on the lake and visit some of its islands such as Nalabana Island (a bird sanctuary), Kalijai Island (a temple island), etc.
- Konark Sun Temple: This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a marvel of ancient Indian architecture. The temple is dedicated to the Sun God and is designed as a huge chariot with 12 pairs of wheels and seven horses. The temple is adorned with exquisite carvings and sculptures depicting various aspects of life, culture, and mythology. The temple is also famous for its erotic sculptures and its alignment with the sun’s movement.
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The Best Events to Attend in Jagannath Puri
The best events to attend in Jagannath Puri are:
- Ratha Yatra: This is the most famous festival of Jagannath Puri, which takes place in June or July. During this festival, the deities of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are taken out in three giant chariots and pulled by millions of devotees along the Grand Road to the Gundicha Temple. The festival attracts people from all over the world.
- Snana Yatra: This is a bathing festival that takes place on the full moon day of Jyestha month (May-June). On this day, the deities are taken out of the temple and bathed with 108 pots of water on a platform called Snana Mandap. The deities are then dressed in elephant costumes and worshipped as Gajanana or Ganesh.
- Chandan Yatra: This is a sandalwood paste festival that takes place for 21 days from Akshaya Tritiya (April-May). On this festival, the deities are smeared with sandalwood paste and taken out in boats on the Narendra Sarovara, a lake near the temple. The festival is celebrated with music, dance, and cultural programs.
- Kartik Purnima: This is a full moon festival that takes place in the month of Kartik (October-November). On this day, devotees take a holy dip in the sea and offer lamps to the Lord. The temple is also illuminated with thousands of lamps and candles. The festival is also known as Deva Deepawali or the festival of lights of the gods.
Jagannath Puri is a destination that will enrich your soul and mind with its spiritual and cultural richness. It is a place where you can experience the divine grace of Lord Jagannath and witness the natural beauty of Odisha. Don’t miss this opportunity to visit this sacred and spectacular place. Book your Jagannath Puri trip today and get ready for a memorable trip!
