Jagannath Temple Puri Tour Guide

July 02, 2023
jagannath temple puri

India is the biggest spiritual center in the world and it is famous for ancient time temples. In this blog, I discuss on one of the famous temple which name is jagannath temple puri and also discuss on jagannath puri tour guide with my experience. Let's start

Story of Jagannath Temple in Puri

The Jagannath Temple, located in Puri, a coastal town in the state of Odisha, India, is one of the most revered Hindu temples in the country. It is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu, along with his siblings, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra. The temple holds immense religious, cultural, and historical significance and is an important pilgrimage site for devotees from all over the world.

The origins of the Jagannath Temple can be traced back to ancient times, with historical references dating back to the 12th century. However, the temple's exact founding and early construction remain shrouded in legend and mythology. According to popular belief, the temple was built by King Indradyumna, who had a divine vision instructing him to establish the temple and install the deities.

The architecture of the Jagannath Temple is a splendid representation of the Kalinga style, which blends elements of Kalinga, Dravidian, and Nagara architectural traditions. The temple complex is vast and covers an area of over 400,000 square feet. The main temple structure, known as the Vimana or Bada Deula, rises to a height of 214 feet and features a towering spire called the Shikara. The temple also consists of other significant structures such as the Jagamohan (assembly hall) and the Nata Mandir (dancing hall).

One of the notable features of the Jagannath Temple is its intricate stone carvings and sculptures. The temple walls are adorned with depictions of mythological stories, celestial beings, and various forms of Lord Jagannath. These artistic masterpieces showcase the rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship of Odisha.

Why is Jagannath temple so famous?

Jagannath Temple is the one of the char dham and famous for several reasons. Here are some key factors that contribute to its popularity:

  1. Historical and Cultural Significance: The Jagannath Temple has a rich history that dates back over a thousand years. It is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites for Hindus, and it holds immense cultural and religious significance in the state of Odisha and beyond. The temple is associated with Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, and is considered one of the holiest places of worship in Hinduism.

  2. Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival): The Jagannath Temple is most famous for its annual Rath Yatra, also known as the Chariot Festival. During this grand event, the deities of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra are taken out of the temple in magnificently decorated chariots and pulled through the streets of Puri by thousands of devotees. The Rath Yatra attracts millions of pilgrims and tourists from all over the world, making it one of the largest religious festivals in India.

  3. Unique Architecture: The architecture of the Jagannath Temple is awe-inspiring. The main temple complex showcases the Kalinga style of architecture, known for its towering spires, intricate carvings, and beautiful sculptures. The temple's distinctive architectural features make it a marvel of craftsmanship and a significant attraction for visitors.

  4. Prasad (Offerings): The temple is famous for its unique prasad, known as "Mahaprasad." It is considered extremely sacred and is offered to the deities before being distributed to devotees. The Mahaprasad is prepared in the temple's kitchen, where an incredible variety of vegetarian dishes are cooked in a traditional manner. The prasad is believed to be imbued with the blessings of Lord Jagannath and is highly revered.

  5. Mahaprasad of Jagannath Temple Puri

    Spiritual Beliefs and Legends: The Jagannath Temple is associated with numerous spiritual beliefs and legends. According to one popular legend, Lord Jagannath invites his devotees to partake in the divine bliss experienced within the temple. It is believed that a visit to the temple and seeking the blessings of Lord Jagannath can bring spiritual fulfillment, peace, and liberation.

  6. Pilgrimage Destination: The Jagannath Temple is considered one of the most sacred pilgrimage destinations in India. Devotees from all walks of life undertake journeys to seek the darshan (divine sight) of Lord Jagannath. The temple's spiritual aura, coupled with its historical and cultural significance, makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking a deep connection with Hindu spirituality.

  7. Puri as a Tourist Destination: The popularity of the Jagannath Temple has also contributed to the fame of Puri as a tourist destination. Puri is home to beautiful beaches, vibrant local markets, and other attractions, making it a complete package for travelers. The presence of the Jagannath Temple adds to the allure of Puri as a cultural and spiritual hub.

My experience at Jagannath Temple Puri

Visiting Jagannath Temple has been my dream for the last two-three years before going there, and after visiting this temple I felt very energetic and positive energy surged in my body.But the crowd management is not good and I got only 1 minute to see the idol of Lord Jagannath, and it is a lifetime experience for me. The best thing is that the idol of Lord Jagannath is wooden, and the famous Mahaprasad of Lord Jagannath was very tasty, but it is not free, it is not good from my point of view because poor people cannot buy it.  This is my small experience at Jagannath Temple Puri and now we discuss important things that help you in temple visit planning. 

Watch our Full Vlog on Jagannath Puri Visit

How to plan a Jagannath temple tour?

Jagannath temple is not only one place to visit in Puri so you can visit through tour packages or visit through customized plans made by yourself. But some Jagannath Temple Puri tour packages I recommended that help you. 

Book Puri Tour Package From Here 

How many days are sufficient to visit Jagannath Puri?


There are beautiful tourist places around and you need at least 3-4 days to see these places. Here is a breakdown of how you can plan your visit:

Day 1:

Reach Puri and check into your accommodation. I recommended first visit the beautiful beaches of Puri on early morning and take bath or touch the sea water on morning time between 6am to 10 am because as per local its good  fulfill the ritual first visit the Puri beach for bath and then visit the Jagannath Temple, and  another thing is you can see beautiful beach view at this time.

Visit Jagannath Temple: Begin your spiritual journey by visiting the renowned Jagannath Temple. Spend ample time exploring the temple complex, witnessing the rituals, and seeking the blessings of Lord Jagannath. Note the timings for darshan (divine sight) and plan your visit accordingly. You can eat delicious mahaprasad which is world famous. 

 Explore the Local Market: Take a stroll through the bustling streets near the temple and explore the local markets. You can shop for traditional handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs unique to Puri. You can try very delicious and famous sweets like chhena poda , khaja etc. from sweet shops.

Day 2:

Chilika lake visit : Second day plan for Chilika lake tour is it takes a full day and for this tour you can book the bus ticket or taxi.Chilika is Asia's largest brackish water lagoon. Enjoy a boat ride amidst the picturesque surroundings and spot migratory birds and dolphins.  

Day 3 : You can plan a visit to the nearby Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the architectural brilliance of this ancient temple dedicated to the Sun God. If you have time then you can visit the Chandrabhaga beach and lingaraj temple.

Explore in detail:
Best Puri Itinerary for 3 days - Crafting Unforgettable Memories in your holidays

What is the timing of darshan at Shree Jagannath temple?

The darshan timings of Shri Jagannath Temple is from 5.30 am to 9.00 pm and it is open for devotees on all days of the week.

Morning Timing:

  • Nijogs and Sevak Pujas: 5:00 AM to 6:00 AM
  • Mangal Aarti: 6:00 AM to 6:30 AM
  • Mailam (Opening of the doors): 6:00 AM to 6:30 AM
  • Sahanamela: 6:30 AM to 7:00 AM
  • Beshalagi: 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM
  • Gopala Ballava and Sakala Dhupa: 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM
  • Madhyana Dhupa (Afternoon Offering): 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
  • Sandhya Dhupa (Evening Offering): 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Afternoon Timing:

  • Pahuda (Closing of the doors): 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM

Evening Timing:

  • Sandhya Aarti: 8:00 PM to 8:30 PM
  • Pahuda and Chandan Lagi: 9:00 PM to 9:30 PM

Note: These timings are subject to change, and it is advisable to check for any updates or modifications in the darshan timings before planning a visit. The temple authorities or local sources in Puri can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the darshan timings at the Shree Jagannath Temple.

Which is the best month to visit Puri Jagannath?

The best time to visit Jagannath Puri depends on various factors such as weather, festivals, and personal preferences. Here is a detailed answer on the best time to visit Jagannath Puri:

Winter Season (October to February):

This is considered the peak tourist season in Puri due to pleasant weather conditions.

The temperature ranges from 15°C to 25°C, providing a comfortable environment for exploration.

The famous Rath Yatra festival usually takes place during June or July but occasionally occurs in the winter months, attracting a large number of devotees and tourists.

Summer Season (March to May):

Summers in Puri are hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C.

Despite the heat, this period sees a significant influx of tourists, especially during the school summer vacation period.

It is advisable to carry light and breathable clothing, sunscreen, and stay hydrated while visiting during this season.

Monsoon Season (June to September):

Puri experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season.

While the downpours may hinder outdoor activities, the lush green surroundings offer a picturesque view.

The annual Chariot Festival (Rath Yatra) generally takes place during this season, drawing thousands of devotees and tourists from all over the world. It is a vibrant and culturally significant event to witness.

Considering these factors, the ideal time to visit Jagannath Puri is during the winter season (October to February). The weather is pleasant, and you can explore the temple and other attractions comfortably. Additionally, if you are interested in attending the Rath Yatra festival, you may need to check the specific dates, as it sometimes falls during the winter season. However, if you don't mind the heat and humidity, visiting during the summer season or during the monsoon season to witness the Rath Yatra festival can also be a memorable experience.

How far is Jagannath Temple Puri from the Puri railway station?

Puri railway station is the nearest railway station from Jagannath temple. The distance between the Jagannath Puri Railway Station and the Jagannath Temple, which is the main attraction in Puri, is approximately 3 kilometers (1.9 miles).

List of Best Hotels Near Jagannath Temple

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