Puri – the city of temples resides in the state of Odisha. It is considered as a major fulcrum of pilgrimage in India, and is home to the famous Jagannath temple. The city is connected to the neighbouring city of Bhubaneswar and Calcutta via rail, road, and air. The tree major tourist spots – Puri, Bhubaneswar, and Konark, form the ‘Golden triangle of Odisha’ attracting visitors from all over the world.

The land has been the harbinger of a number of temples, following the establishment of the ancient Jagannath shrine. It is one of the main attractions on which tourism thrives in the state. This temple is one of India’s largest sanctums. Did you know that it holds the largest kitchen in the world? Yes, the area covers almost an entire city block!

It houses the famous wooden statues of Lord Krishna, his brother Balaram and sister Subhadra who are ritualistically worshipped within the temple. On the great chariot festival (Rath Yatra), the idols are let out in the city with great pomp and show. Jagannath temple has been built on a raised platform right in the core of the city.

The area is enclosed by high walls on all sides and has four gates placed in the four directions – north, east, west, and south. Each gate bears a stone carving of an animal; on the east, you will find the Lion’s Gate; the north has the Elephant Gate, the south has the Horse Gate, and the west has the Tiger Gate. It is believed that the Elephant Gate belongs to the God himself. Pilgrims enter the temple through the Lion’s Gate.

And that’s not all about Puri. The city also witnesses a lot of vibrant festivals and fairs. Have you ever heard of the ‘Pancha Tirtha’ bathing spots of the city? These include the Mahodadhi of the Puri Sea near Swargadwar, the Rohini Kunda, the Indradyumana Tank, the Swetaganga Tank, and the Markandeya Tank. The sea, the beach, and the aura make the land all the more welcoming. If you are planning to visit Puri and looking for a comfortable stay, don’t forget to book your accommodation at Hotel Balaji International.