Nestled on the beautiful coastline of the Bay of Bengal in Odisha, Puri is a city that draws pilgrims, history buffs, and curious travelers alike. Anyone you meet here will start the conversation with “Jai Jagannath”!!. The reason? It is home to the famous Puri Jagannath Temple, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites for Hindus and one of the oldest and most revered temples in India. Whether you’re visiting for spiritual reasons, to marvel at the intricate architecture, or to enjoy the coastal beauty of Puri, this temple is an essential destination.
In this guide, I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know about visiting the Jagannath Temple, offering practical tips, insights into the temple’s cultural significance, and the best things to do around Puri to make your trip truly unforgettable.
Before we move forward, if you are looking to travel please book your hotels and flights through this link. You will get exclusive discounts & I will be able to earn a small commission that will help me keep this site up & running.
A Glimpse into the History of Puri Jagannath Temple
Before we dive into the travel details, let’s take a quick look at why the Puri Jagannath Temple is such a significant place. The temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu. The deity is worshipped here along with his siblings, Balaram and Subhadra. The name “Jagannath” literally translates to “Lord of the Universe,” and the temple is believed to have been established around the 12th century, during the reign of King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva.
Apart from its religious significance, the temple’s architecture is an awe-inspiring example of Kalinga-style architecture, with its towering spires and intricate carvings. The Puri Jagannath Temple is also world-famous for its Rath Yatra (chariot festival), where millions of devotees pull gigantic wooden chariots through the streets of Puri to transport the deities. This grand festival is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world!
Now, let’s focus on how you can make the most of your visit to this awe-inspiring temple.
Best Time to Visit Puri Jagannath Temple
When is the Right Time?
Puri is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit the Puri Jagannath Temple is from October to March. This is the winter season when the weather is pleasant, with cool breezes and mild temperatures—perfect for exploring the temple and the city.
However please note, the temple happens to be crowded all throughout the year with crowds peaking during special times as I have detailed below.
Avoid the Crowds (Rath Yatra Season, Holidays, New Year, Janmashtami)
If you’re aiming for a more peaceful experience, avoid the peak Rath Yatra season, which usually takes place in June-July. During the Rath Yatra, the town is packed with thousands of pilgrims, and the temple area can become very crowded. While it’s an extraordinary sight to witness, it’s not ideal for those who want a quieter, more reflective visit.
Similarly during the New Year and the Christmas Holidays, the crowds are bursting at the seams (I unfortunately happened to visit during Christmas and the waiting time and chaos was just crazy!).
Janmashtami is another festival when tourists throng to this temple. During any such holiday period the waiting time in the lines for darshan (visit) can be excruciatingly long. So please plan ahead.
How to Reach Puri Jagannath Temple
By Air
The nearest airport to Puri is the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, approximately 60 km away. It is well connected with major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Chennai. From Bhubaneswar, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Puri.
Pro tip: I would suggest you book an Uber or Ola from the airport. For a small car you will need to pay around Rs. 1600 + Rs. 140 as toll. If you choose to go with any other local operator, they typically charge you more (a minimum of Rs.2000).
By Train
Puri is well-connected by rail to several major cities. The Puri Railway Station is located just a few kilometers from the temple, making it very convenient for visitors to reach the temple after their arrival.
By Road
Puri is easily accessible by road, and you can rent a taxi or take a bus from nearby cities like Bhubaneswar. If you’re driving from Bhubaneswar, the journey is around 1.5 to 2 hours, offering scenic views of the lush landscapes of Odisha along the way.
Where is Puri Jagannath Temple located?
Once you reach Puri, you can either take an e-rickshaw or can continue in your cab till about 1 km away from the temple. No vehicles are allowed in the 1 km periphery of the temple. Only hand pulled carts and cycle rickshaws are allowed within the 1 km radius of the temple.
There is a free e-rick service too that makes trips in this 1 km periphery, but given the crowds, there are massive lines to get a seat on one of them. Walking is the best option here. However if you are travelling with infants or elderly, you can take the cycle rickshaw I mentioned.
Also, there is no bargaining with the e-rick or the cycle rick fares here. There is a sort of nexus & everyone maintains the same rate.
The road to Puri Jagannath Temple is dotted with shops selling everything from handlooms, metal handicrafts, wood handicrafts, mementoes, sweets, snacks and tea. There are several guest houses as well.
Puri Jagannath Temple Timings and Dress Code
The Puri Jagannath Temple has specific visiting hours that you should keep in mind:
- Morning Darshan: 5:00 AM – 12:30 PM
- Afternoon Break: 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM
- Evening Darshan: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
You should aim to arrive early for the morning darshan to avoid the crowds. The temple is closed during the afternoon break, so plan accordingly. Evening darshan offers a beautiful view of the temple under the lights, but it’s generally more crowded than the morning session.
Another reason for crowds peaking at evening is that Puri weather is hot and hence for long waiting times, people prefer post noon, when the heat is bearable.
Mobiles, Belts and Bags
Mobiles, belts(any leather items) and bags are strictly prohibited inside the temple. Outside the temple, you will find few locals having set up shops where they keep your bags & mobiles for a fee (Rs.10). However, there is no locker. Your items will be kept in a heap with no distinction around your items and someone else’s. These shops also keep your shoes.
The hotels in and around Puri do not have locker facility either. Still, you are better off keeping your mobiles in your hotel rooms safely locked in your luggage.
Where to Stay if you want to Visit Puri Jagannath Temple?
The Puri Jagannath temple is about 2 km from Puri beach. If you are one of those who are visiting for the beach and sea side experience, I would suggest to look for a hotel near the beach.
But if your intention of visit is to experience the religious fervour of Puri Jagannath temple, then I would suggest you pick one of the hotels around VIP road & medical square in Puri. These are centrally located, with shops and multiple transport options available to both the temple and any other tourist spot you might want to visit. Also, if you choose well, you can just walk to reach the temple.
Added benefits include, waking up to beautiful and divine music emanating from the temple. The flip side are the maddening crowds of course!
Experience inside Puri Jagannath Temple
Once you leave all your mobiles, wallets, belts and bags, you can proceed to the entry point of the temple. Here you will notice a shoe stand where you can leave your shoes and proceed to the myriad waiting rooms lined with metallic railings. Now if you manage to enter through the gate, there are 3 stretches of waiting “sections”, the entry and exit to which is regulated by the security guards.
You will proceed through multiple lines in these sections until the security check area, where men & women are manually frisked. This point is where the bottleneck is. After this the visitors are suddenly allowed to enter through the Singha Dwar (Lion Gate) and there are no metallic railings at this entry till you climb up the stairs.
Now on days when crowds peak, this stretch can be extremely risky and prone to stampedes. Also, it is from here that the famed ‘pandas’ or priests start heckling you to take their services. The visit can be completed without the help of any panda, but if you do choose to take their services, do remember to negotiate and finalize the “price of their service” beforehand. This is imperative as they are notorious for asking for arbitrary money at the end.
Now after you move up the stairs, you will find yourself struggling to take in the breathtaking sight. The magnanimous architecture of the temple, the flag royally fluttering on the shikhar (peak), the aura of divinity, the fervour of prayers, chants and cymbals, just the entire atmosphere will transport you to another world.
However, before you can take this all in, you will once again have to line up in another section of chamber, again lined with metallic railings that go right up to the steps of the inner sanctum of the temple. This is your final wait. Once you cross this section, you will be greeted with the sight that will finally bring all this chaos, pain and waiting to fruition, the glimpse of the deities – Lord Jagannath, Lord Balarama and Goddess Subhadra.
Those few seconds when you get a glimpse of these intricately carved idols, you will be transfixed, enraptured by the beauty, the grandeur and the devotion, and it is this glimpse that you will carry till your visit ends.
After you exit the temple (the stairs are the same as the one you entered with), you will find innumerable temples dotting the entire area, forming a circle around the temple. Here you can also buy diyas and offer to Lord Jagannath in the dedicated area.
Further ahead is the kitchen area where you can enjoy the delicious Prasad (divine food offering) of the temple.
Tips for a Smooth Visit to the Jagannath Temple
1. Stand in the Right Queue
The temple can get crowded, so be prepared for long queues, especially during the darshan hours. You may be able to get a quicker darshan if you opt for the VIP pass, which can be purchased in advance at the temple’s counter. This allows you to skip the longer lines. You can also take help from Pandas to skip a few waiting lines.
2. Be Prepared for Security Checks
As with many major temples, the Jagannath Temple has strict security checks. Ensure that you don’t carry any prohibited items like cameras, mobile phones, or electronic devices. You’ll need to leave these at the designated counters outside the temple.
3. The Prasadam: A Sacred Offering
One of the unique aspects of the Jagannath Temple is its prasadam (holy offerings). The temple’s kitchen is considered one of the largest in the world, and it prepares enormous quantities of food every day to offer to the deities. The prasadam is not only a sacred blessing but also a gastronomic delight. You can purchase prasadam in the form of ‘Mahaprasad’ from the temple, which is usually served as rice, dal, vegetables, and other traditional offerings.
4. Plan to Visit Other Temples in Puri
Though the Jagannath Temple is the main attraction, Puri has several other temples and sites worth visiting. The Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is just a short drive away and is an architectural marvel. The Chilika Lake, one of the largest coastal lagoons in Asia, is also nearby and offers boat rides where you can see the mesmerizing views of the lake and spot migratory birds.
5. Use Local Transportation Wisely
Puri has a range of local transport options, from auto-rickshaws to cycle rickshaws. However, it’s best to negotiate the fare before hopping on, as drivers can sometimes charge more from tourists. Alternatively, you can rent a car or use ride-sharing services for more convenience.
6. Respect Local Customs
Puri is a holy city, so it’s important to be mindful of local customs and practices. Make sure to maintain a respectful silence within the temple precincts. Don’t touch the idols or the priests, and avoid using flash photography. It’s also courteous to ask for permission before taking photos in some areas of the temple.
Things to Do Around Puri
1. Visit the Golden Beach
Puri’s coastline is famous for its Golden Beach, offering a relaxing break from the temple visit. The beach is clean, peaceful, and ideal for a quiet walk or a dip in the sea. You’ll find many beachside stalls selling local snacks, handicrafts, and souvenirs. The sunset views are absolutely breathtaking!
2. Explore the Local Markets
The Swargadei Market near the Jagannath Temple is the best place to pick up souvenirs, traditional Odia handicrafts, and religious items. You can buy items like Pattachitra paintings, stone carvings, and silver filigree work. It’s also a great place to experience the hustle and bustle of Puri.
3. Taste Odia Cuisine
Don’t leave Puri without trying its mouthwatering local food. Some of the best dishes include Dalma, a lentil and vegetable curry, Pakhala Bhata (fermented rice), and Chhena Poda, a dessert made with cottage cheese. You can enjoy these at local eateries or restaurants near the temple.
4. Visit the Gundicha Temple
The Gundicha Temple is another important site, especially during the Rath Yatra. It is believed to be the maternal home of Lord Jagannath, and it’s a peaceful spot for reflection and spiritual connection.
Final Thoughts: Is the Journey Worth It?
Visiting the Jagannath Temple is not just about witnessing grand rituals or admiring intricate architecture—it’s about connecting with something much deeper. The devotion, the energy of millions of pilgrims, and the serene atmosphere make the experience nothing short of transformational. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker or someone who simply loves to explore new cultures and places, Puri offers something that will resonate with your soul.
With this guide in hand, you’re all set to embark on an unforgettable journey to the Jagannath Temple. May your visit be peaceful, enlightening, and full of beautiful memories!
Safe travels, and Jai Jagannath!
My Other Posts
If you are looking for options in Kashmir, check out my posts on Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Snowfall in Kashmir, and Best Time to Visit Kashmir. If you are looking for options in Ladakh, check out Ladakh Weather, Nubra Valley, 5 Days Kashmir Itinerary, Best Packing tips for Ladakh & best tourist places in Ladakh.
If you are looking for something in Sikkim, check Tsomgo Lake, Nathu La Pass, Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir and Batasia Loop. If you are looking for some jungle safari read Gir Safari, or Bandipur Safari, feel blessed at Sri Venugopala Swamy Temple in Mysore.
If you are looking for places to visit in the Andaman Islands, please check my posts on Radhanagar Beach & Ross Island.
If you are looking for other options, check my posts on Murud Janjira, Kashid, Pirwadi Beach and Kihim Beach in Maharashtra or Malshej Ghat, Matheran Resorts, Kailash Temple Ellora, Vandri Lake, Kelwa Beach in Palghar & Mahabaleshwar.
Alternatively, if you are interested in some Religious tourism, please check my posts on Golden Temple, Kamakhya, Trimbakeshwar, Somnath Temple, Kalighat Temple, Dakshineswar Temple and Kashi Vishwanath. If you are looking for North East Adventure tours, check my posts on Shillong, Meghalaya, Dawki, Double Decker Living Root Trek, and 7-Day North East Itinerary.