20 Must Visit Places and Temple in Puri

20 Must Visit Places and Temple in Puri

Puri, where the Bay of Bengal touches golden sandy beaches and the sound of temple bells fills the air. It is more than just a travel spot it’s a beautiful experience. It is famous one of the Major Char Dham Temple. Puri is an important place for both spirituality and culture. The main attraction here is the famous Jagannath Temple. where the annual Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival) draws millions of devotees. But Puri is not only about temples it also offers peaceful beaches, heritage villages like Raghurajpur (famous for art and craft), and natural wonders like Chilika Lake, where you can spot dolphins and migratory birds.

Nearby, you can also visit Konark’s Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Bhubaneswar, called the “City of Temples” Together, these three places Bhubaneswar, Puri, and Konark are known as the Golden Triangle of Odisha, perfect for travelers who love history, culture, and spirituality. Whether you are looking for divine blessings, cultural experiences, or relaxing moments by the sea, Puri has something special for everyone

20 Must-Visit Places and Temples in Puri

Temples & Spiritual Places

1. Jagannath Temple
   Located in the heart of Puri, the Jagannath Temple was built in the 12th century and is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu. It is one of India’s most revered pilgrimage sites and attracts millions of devotees each year, especially during the famous Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival). The temple’s towering spire, intricate stone carvings, and age-old rituals create a deeply spiritual atmosphere. Even outside festival times, visitors are captivated by its architecture, sacred ambiance, and the continuous devotion of pilgrims.
2. Gundicha Temple
   Often called the “Garden House of Jagannath,” Gundicha Temple is an important shrine in Puri that serves as the resting place of Lord Jagannath during the annual Rath Yatra. Located about 3 km from the main Jagannath Temple, it is surrounded by lush gardens and peaceful courtyards, offering visitors a tranquil environment for meditation and reflection. The temple’s historical significance and serene setting make it a must-visit for pilgrims and travelers seeking spiritual calm away from the bustling city center.
3. Loknath Temple
   Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Loknath Temple is renowned for its self-manifested Shivalinga, which remains partially submerged in water. Devotees believe that offering prayers here can cure ailments and wash away sins, making it a significant spiritual spot in Puri. The temple is especially crowded during Maha Shivaratri, when pilgrims gather to seek blessings, witness rituals, and experience the powerful aura of devotion that pervades the shrine. Surrounded by a serene atmosphere, Loknath Temple provides both spiritual solace and a glimpse into the region’s rich religious traditions.
4. Alarnath Temple
   Situated in Brahmagiri, about 23 km from Puri, Alarnath Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This temple holds special significance during the Anavasara period the time when Lord Jagannath retires to rest inside the main temple in Puri. Devotees believe that worshipping at Alarnath during this period allows them to receive the blessings of Lord Jagannath in another form. Surrounded by scenic landscapes, the temple offers a tranquil environment for prayer and reflection, making it an important spiritual destination for pilgrims visiting Puri.
5. Bedi Hanuman Temple
   Bedi Hanuman Temple is a unique shrine in Puri, where the idol of Lord Hanuman is depicted bound with ropes. According to local legend, Hanuman was tied here to prevent him from leaving Puri and returning to Ayodhya. This fascinating tale adds a rich layer of mythology and cultural charm to the temple. Beyond its legendary story, the temple is a place of devotion and spiritual energy, attracting devotees who come to seek blessings, perform rituals, or simply experience the peaceful atmosphere. Its distinctive architecture and historical significance make it a must-visit spot for pilgrims and curious travelers alike.
6. Markandeshwar Temple
   Markandeshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is named after the revered Sage Markandeya, a symbol of devotion and longevity in Hindu mythology. The temple is set amidst a serene environment, featuring a sacred pond where the sage is believed to have meditated. Pilgrims and visitors often perform rituals at the pond, seeking spiritual blessings and inner peace. The temple’s ancient architecture, combined with the tranquil surroundings, provides a meditative atmosphere that reflects centuries of religious devotion. It is not only a spiritual destination but also a peaceful retreat for those wanting to connect with nature and history in Puri.
7. Vimala Temple
   Located within the Jagannath Temple complex, Vimala Temple is dedicated to Goddess Vimala, revered as the guardian deity of Lord Jagannath. The temple is especially significant for devotees, as it is considered incomplete to visit Puri without offering prayers here. The goddess symbolizes purity and protection, and her shrine is known for daily
8. Narendra Tank & Temple
   Narendra Tank is a large sacred water reservoir located in Puri, surrounded by several small temples and shrines. The tank holds great religious significance, especially during the Chandan Yatra festival, when idols are taken on ceremonial boat rides in the water. Devotees believe that a holy dip in the tank purifies the soul and washes away sins. The tank is also known for its serene ambiance, with pilgrims often performing prayers along its ghats. In the evenings, the temples surrounding the tank are beautifully illuminated, and their reflection in the calm water creates a magical, almost ethereal view, making it a favorite spot for photography and quiet contemplation.
9. Sunara Gaurang Temple
   The Sunara Gaurang Temple is dedicated to Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, the 16th-century saint and proponent of the Bhakti movement in India. Known for his teachings on devotion and love for Lord Krishna, Chaitanya Mahaprabhu’s followers consider this temple a spiritual hub in Puri. The temple’s serene environment makes it ideal for meditation, prayer, and quiet reflection away from the city’s bustle. Devotees often engage in kirtans (devotional singing) and rituals that echo the saint’s message of love and devotion. Architecturally, the temple is simple but spiritually uplifting, emphasizing inner peace over grandeur. For travelers seeking a calm, devotional experience, Sunara Gaurang Temple offers both tranquility and inspiration.
10. Daria Mahadev Temple
    The Daria Mahadev Temple is a unique Shiva shrine located near Puri’s coastline, where the gentle sound of waves enhances the spiritual ambiance. Unlike many inland temples, this temple allows devotees and visitors to experience devotion alongside nature, with the ocean breeze and rhythmic waves creating a serene setting for prayer and meditation. It is believed that worship here grants peace of mind and spiritual cleansing. The temple is relatively quiet compared to major Puri temples, making it ideal for those seeking solitude and reflection. Visiting Daria Mahadev provides a rare blend of spiritual connection and natural beauty, offering an unforgettable coastal pilgrimage experience.

Beaches & Natural Attractions

11. Puri Beach
    Puri Beach is the city’s most famous attraction, stretching along the Bay of Bengal with golden sands and gentle waves. It is not only a hub for morning walks, sunrises, and photography, but also a vibrant spot for local culture and festivities. The beach is world-renowned for the sand art of Sudarsan Pattnaik, whose intricate sculptures often depict social messages and festivals. Visitors can enjoy activities like camel rides, beach sports, and evening strolls, making it ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. The combination of natural beauty, cultural expression, and lively energy makes Puri Beach a must-visit destination when in the city.
12. Swargadwar Beach
    Swargadwar, literally meaning “Gateway to Heaven,” is one of Puri’s most sacred beaches. Pilgrims come here to take holy dips in the sea, which are believed to wash away sins and purify the soul. Beyond its spiritual significance, Swargadwar offers a scenic and lively atmosphere, especially during evenings when the sun sets over the Bay of Bengal. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks along the shore, local food stalls, and the sight of fishing boats returning from the sea. The combination of devotion, natural beauty, and local culture makes Swargadwar Beach a unique destination for both spiritual seekers and tourists.
13. Chilika Lake (Satapada)
    Located about 60 km from Puri, Chilika Lake is Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon and a haven for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. The Satapada region of the lake is famous for spotting Irrawaddy dolphins, which can often be seen swimming and playing in the calm waters. Birdwatchers can enjoy thousands of migratory birds, including flamingos, pelicans, and herons, especially during the winter months. Visitors can also take peaceful boat rides, explore the serene waters, and witness sunsets reflecting off the lagoon. Chilika Lake offers a perfect blend of wildlife, natural beauty, and tranquility, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Puri.
14. Balighai Beach
    Balighai Beach is a less crowded, serene stretch of sand near Puri, surrounded by fragrant casuarina forests. Its peaceful ambiance makes it an ideal spot for couples, photographers, and nature lovers looking to escape the city’s bustle. The beach is also an important nesting ground for the endangered Olive Ridley turtles, which come here during the breeding season, adding an ecological significance to its natural charm. Visitors can enjoy quiet walks along the shore, birdwatching, and sunset views, making Balighai a perfect blend of tranquility and natural beauty.
15. Beleswar Beach
    Beleswar Beach is a hidden gem near Puri, known for its golden sands, gently lapping waves, and vibrant fishing boats that dot the shoreline. The beach offers a peaceful and scenic environment, perfect for sunset views, leisurely strolls, and photography. A small local temple near the beach adds a spiritual element, making it a place where nature and devotion meet. Beleswar is less crowded than Puri Beach, allowing visitors to enjoy tranquility, meditation, and a closer connection with the coastal surroundings.

Cultural & Historical Sites

16. Raghurajpur Heritage Village
    Raghurajpur is a famous heritage village located about 14 km from Puri, renowned as a hub of Odisha’s traditional arts and crafts. It is especially celebrated for Pattachitra paintings, intricate palm-leaf artwork, and Gotipua dance, a precursor to classical Odissi dance performed by young boys in vibrant costumes. The village streets are lined with colorful houses adorned with murals and handicrafts, making a walk through Raghurajpur feel like stepping into a living museum. Visitors can watch artisans at work, purchase authentic handicrafts, and experience cultural performances, gaining deep insight into the region’s rich artistic heritage.
17. Pipili Village
    Pipili, located about 28 km from Puri, is famous worldwide for its vibrant appliqué handicrafts. Skilled artisans create colorful lanterns, umbrellas, wall hangings, canopies, and decorative items, often stitched in intricate patterns that reflect Odisha’s traditional motifs. The village is a paradise for shoppers and art enthusiasts, offering a chance to purchase authentic, handcrafted souvenirs directly from the artisans. Walking through Pipili’s bustling lanes, visitors can observe the entire creative process, from designing patterns to stitching vibrant fabrics, making it both a cultural and educational experience.
18. Konark Sun Temple
    Located about 35 km from Puri, the Konark Sun Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of India’s architectural marvels. Built in the 13th century by King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga dynasty, the temple is designed in the shape of a gigantic stone chariot with twelve intricately carved wheels and seven horses, symbolizing the Sun God’s journey across the sky. The walls and pillars are adorned with detailed sculptures depicting mythological stories, daily life, animals, and celestial beings, reflecting the artistic brilliance of Odisha’s craftsmen. Apart from its religious significance, the temple is a center for photography, heritage walks, and cultural exploration, especially during the Konark Dance Festival, which celebrates classical dance forms against the temple’s stunning backdrop.
19. Sudarshan Crafts Museum
    Founded by renowned sculptor Sudarsan Sahoo, this museum in Puri is a treasure trove of Odisha’s traditional arts and crafts. It showcases stone and wood sculptures, metalwork, terracotta art, and intricate carvings that reflect the region’s rich cultural and religious heritage. Visitors can explore the evolution of Odisha’s artistry, from ancient temple motifs to contemporary interpretations, making it both an educational and visual delight. The museum also often hosts workshops and live demonstrations, allowing guests to interact with artisans and gain a deeper appreciation of these time-honored crafts. It’s a perfect stop for art enthusiasts, culture lovers, and travelers seeking to understand Odisha’s artistic legacy.
20. Chilika Bird Sanctuary
    Located on the coastal edge of Chilika Lake, this sanctuary becomes a migratory bird haven during winter. Thousands of birds, including flamingos, pelicans, herons, and kingfishers, flock here from Siberia, Central Asia, and other regions, creating a spectacular sight for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The sanctuary also supports a rich aquatic ecosystem, with freshwater and brackish water zones, making it ideal for spotting rare fish, crabs, and dolphins, especially near Satapada. Visitors can enjoy boat rides that allow close observation of the birds and the lake’s serene beauty, making it a must-visit for wildlife photography, nature walks, and eco-tourism experiences.

Final Thoughts

Puri is more than just a destination it’s a journey through devotion, culture, and nature. From offering prayers at the magnificent Jagannath Temple to witnessing serene sunsets at Swargadwar Beach, from spotting dolphins in Chilika Lake to exploring the artistic heritage of villages like Raghurajpur, every moment in Puri is timeless and memorable.

With Travel Shrine, your visit to Puri can be effortless and enriching. We take care of your flights, transfers, stays, sightseeing, and curated experiences, so you can immerse yourself in the city’s spiritual and cultural charm without worrying about the logistics. These 20 must-visit places and temples in Puri offer the perfect blend of spirituality, heritage, and natural beauty, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Best time to visit Puri

The best time to visit Puri is from October to February, when the weather is cool and pleasant, making it perfect for temple visits, beach walks, and sightseeing. During these winter months, the temperature stays between 16°C and 28°C, offering a comfortable experience for travelers. Summers, from March to June, can be quite hot and humid, with temperatures rising up to 40°C, which makes sightseeing tiring but can still be enjoyable for beach lovers. The monsoon season (July to September) brings heavy rains and high humidity, yet this is also the time when Puri hosts the world-famous Rath Yatra (June/July), a grand cultural and spiritual event that attracts millions of devotees. Overall, winter is considered the best season to experience Puri at its finest.

How to Reach Puri

Puri is one of the most accessible pilgrimage and beach destinations in Odisha, well-connected by rail, road, and air. Here’s how you can plan your journey:

By Air
The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar, about 60 km from Puri. From the airport, you can hire a taxi, use a cab service, or catch a bus to Puri. The drive takes around 1.5–2 hours along scenic highways passing through small towns and villages.

By Train
Puri Railway Station is a major rail hub, connected directly to cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Ahmedabad, and Bhubaneswar. Trains range from superfast expresses to passenger trains. The station is just a few kilometers from the Jagannath Temple and central town areas, making it convenient for pilgrims and tourists.

By Road
Puri is well-connected by national highways. You can travel by bus, private car, or taxi from Bhubaneswar (60 km), Cuttack (80 km), and Konark (35 km). Both government and private buses run frequently, and the roads offer scenic views of Odisha’s countryside.

By Local Transport
Inside Puri, auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, and taxis are widely available. They are ideal for visiting temples, beaches, markets, and nearby attractions like the Chilika Lake or Konark Sun Temple.