The Puri Jagannath Temple is one of the most revered Hindu temples, attracting millions of pilgrims and tourists annually. Located in the coastal town of Puri in Odisha, India, this temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple’s cultural and religious significance makes it a must-visit destination for those embarking on a Puri Jagannath Temple pilgrimage. In this blog, we will provide essential travel tips to help you reach the temple from major cities in India, along with useful advice for your visit.
Planning a Trip to Puri Jagannath Temple
When planning a trip to Puri Jagannath Temple, it’s crucial to consider the best time to visit, transportation options, and accommodation. The ideal time to visit is during the winter months from October to February when the weather is pleasant. However, the temple is also famous for its annual Rath Yatra festival, which usually takes place in June or July.
To reach Puri, you can opt for air travel, trains, or road trips. The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, approximately 60 km from Puri. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Puri. If you prefer traveling by train, Puri has its own railway station with excellent connectivity to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai.
Tips for First-Time Visitors to Puri
For first-time visitors to Puri, here are some essential tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable pilgrimage:
- Dress Code: The temple has a strict dress code. Men should wear dhotis or traditional trousers, and women should wear sarees or salwar kameez. Avoid wearing shorts, skirts, or sleeveless tops to respect the temple’s customs.
- Temple Timings: The temple is open from 5 AM to midnight. To avoid the rush, visit early in the morning around 7 AM or after 9 PM. The first aarti is a serene time for darshan.
- Footwear and Entry: Footwear is not allowed inside the temple premises. You can leave your shoes at designated areas or carry them in a bag. Entry to the temple is free, but hiring a guide can enhance your experience by providing detailed insights into the temple’s history and rituals.
- Mahaprasad: Don’t miss the Mahaprasad, the sacred food offered to the deities. It is prepared in the world’s largest kitchen using traditional methods and is a unique aspect of the temple visit. You can purchase it at the Anand Bazaar inside the temple complex.
- Respectful Behavior: Maintain a respectful and quiet demeanor within the temple. It is a place of worship, and adhering to the customs and rules is essential to ensure a harmonious visit for all.
Exploring Puri Jagannath Temple
Exploring Puri Jagannath Temple can be a spiritually enriching experience. The temple complex is vast, and there are several smaller shrines within it. Make sure to hire a guide who can provide detailed insights into the temple’s history and significance. Don’t miss the Mahaprasad, the sacred food offered at the temple, which is a unique blend of local flavors and traditions.
Visiting Puri During Festivals
Visiting Puri during festivals such as Rath Yatra offers a unique experience, albeit a crowded one. The Rath Yatra, where the deities are taken out in a grand procession, attracts devotees from all over the world. If you plan to visit during this time, ensure that you book your accommodation and travel well in advance. Participating in the Rath Yatra can be an overwhelming experience due to the massive crowd, so always stay alert and follow the instructions given by the temple authorities.
How to reach From Bangalore to Puri Jagannath Temple
Bangalore to Puri Flight Options
Flying is the quickest way to reach Puri from Bangalore. Airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and Vistara operate flights from Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) to Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) in Bhubaneswar. The average flight duration is about 2 hours. Flights are frequent, making it convenient for travelers. To book budget flights, consider using flight comparison websites and booking in advance during off-peak seasons.
Bangalore to Puri Train
Several major trains connect Bangalore to Puri/Bhubaneswar, including the Prashanti Express and Yesvantpur-Puri Express. The train journey typically takes around 30-35 hours, offering Sleeper, AC 3-Tier, and AC 2-Tier classes. Booking train tickets through the IRCTC website or app in advance, especially during holiday seasons, ensures availability and better prices.
Bangalore to Puri Road Trip
Driving from Bangalore to Puri covers approximately 1,400 km and takes about 24-26 hours via NH16. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, carry essential supplies, and plan rest stops at cities like Visakhapatnam and Bhubaneswar for a comfortable journey. Adequate planning will enhance the experience of this adventurous road trip.
How to reach from Mumbai to Puri Jagannath Temple
Mumbai to Puri Flight Options
Flying from Mumbai to Bhubaneswar is the fastest option. Airlines such as IndiGo, Air India, and Vistara offer flights from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) to Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI). The average flight duration is around 2.5 hours. For the best deals, book flights well in advance and use flight comparison tools to find the lowest prices.
Mumbai to Puri Train
Train travel from Mumbai to Puri/Bhubaneswar is another option. Major trains include the Konark Express and the Mumbai LTT-Puri Superfast Express, which take approximately 36-40 hours. Classes available range from Sleeper to AC 2-Tier. Early reservations through the IRCTC platform are recommended to secure preferred seats and avoid last-minute rush.
Mumbai to Puri Road Trip
A road trip from Mumbai to Puri spans about 1,800 km and takes around 32-34 hours via NH16. Key stops include Nagpur and Raipur, where you can rest and refuel. Proper trip planning, including vehicle checks and essential supplies, will ensure a smooth and enjoyable drive.
How to reach from Delhi to Puri Jagannath Temple
Delhi to Puri Flight Options
Flying from Delhi to Bhubaneswar is the fastest way to reach Puri Jagannath Temple. Airlines such as Air India, IndiGo, and Vistara operate flights from Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) to Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) in Bhubaneswar. The average flight duration is about 2 hours, with several flights available daily. To save money, book flights early and consider using flight comparison websites to find the best deals. Booking during non-peak seasons can also help reduce costs.
Delhi to Puri Train Options
Traveling by train from Delhi to Puri is another viable option. Major trains include the Purushottam Express, which takes around 30 hours and 45 minutes, and the Neelachal Express, which takes about 34 hours and 45 minutes. These trains offer different classes such as Sleeper, AC 3-Tier, and AC 2-Tier, catering to various budget preferences. Booking tips include reserving tickets well in advance through the IRCTC website or app, especially during peak travel seasons.
Delhi to Puri Road Trip
Driving from Delhi to Puri covers approximately 1,800 km and takes around 30-32 hours via NH19 and NH16. The route offers a scenic journey with several important stops and rest areas along the way, such as Agra, Varanasi, and Ranchi. For a comfortable road trip, ensure your vehicle is in good condition, carry sufficient snacks and water, and plan your breaks at regular intervals. Proper planning can make this long journey enjoyable and less exhausting.
How to reach from Kolkata to Puri Jagannath Temple
Kolkata to Puri Flight Options
Flying from Kolkata to Bhubaneswar is a quick and convenient option. Airlines like IndiGo and Air India operate frequent flights from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) to Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI). The average flight duration is around 1 hour. For budget flights, book tickets early, use flight comparison tools, and look out for seasonal discounts and offers.
Kolkata to Puri Train Options
Traveling by train from Kolkata to Puri is another efficient method. Major trains include the Howrah-Puri Express and the Dhauli Express, with travel times ranging from 7 to 9 hours. These trains offer Sleeper, AC 3-Tier, and AC 2-Tier classes. Booking train tickets in advance through the IRCTC website or app is advisable, especially during festive seasons.
Kolkata to Puri Road Trip
A road trip from Kolkata to Puri covers about 500 km and takes approximately 9-10 hours via NH16. This route passes through several picturesque locations, including Kharagpur and Balasore. To ensure a comfortable journey, make sure your vehicle is well-maintained, carry essential supplies, and plan rest stops at convenient locations. This trip allows you to enjoy the scenic beauty of the region while traveling at your own pace.
How to reach from Chennai to Puri Jagannath Temple
Chennai to Puri Flight Options
Flying is the fastest way to travel from Chennai to Puri. Airlines such as IndiGo, Air India, and Vistara operate flights from Chennai International Airport (MAA) to Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) in Bhubaneswar. The average flight duration is about 2 hours. For the best deals, book your flights early, use flight comparison websites, and keep an eye on seasonal discounts and offers.
Chennai to Puri Train Options
Several major trains run from Chennai to Puri/Bhubaneswar, including the Coromandel Express and the Howrah Mail. The train journey typically takes around 22-24 hours, offering Sleeper, AC 3-Tier, and AC 2-Tier classes. Booking train tickets in advance through the IRCTC website or app is recommended, especially during holiday seasons.
Chennai to Puri Road Trip
Driving from Chennai to Puri covers approximately 1,236 km and takes about 20-22 hours via NH16. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, carry sufficient snacks and water, and plan your breaks at regular intervals. Key stops include cities like Visakhapatnam and Bhubaneswar for rest and refueling.
How to reach from Hyderabad to Puri Jagannath Temple
Hyderabad to Puri Flight Options
Flying from Hyderabad to Bhubaneswar is the quickest way to reach Puri. Airlines such as IndiGo, Air India, and Vistara operate flights from Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD) to Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI). The average flight duration is about 2 hours. For budget flights, book early and consider using flight comparison tools to find the lowest prices.
Hyderabad to Puri Train Options
Traveling by train from Hyderabad to Puri/Bhubaneswar is another viable option. Major trains include the Konark Express and the East Coast Express, which take approximately 24-26 hours. Available classes range from Sleeper to AC 2-Tier. Booking tips include reserving tickets as early as possible and checking for Tatkal tickets for last-minute travel.
Hyderabad to Puri Road Trip
A road trip from Hyderabad to Puri covers about 1,200 km and takes around 20-22 hours via NH16. Key stops include cities like Visakhapatnam and Bhubaneswar. Proper planning, including vehicle checks and essential supplies, will ensure a smooth and enjoyable drive.
Tips for Travelers
- Best Time to Visit Puri: The ideal time to visit Puri is between October and February when the weather is pleasant. The Rath Yatra festival, held in June or July, is a significant event but can be very crowded.
- Accommodation Options in Puri: Puri offers a range of accommodation options from budget hotels to luxury resorts in puri like Puri Holiday Resort. Booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak seasons and festivals.
- Local Transportation: Auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and taxis are readily available for local travel. Renting a bicycle or scooter is also a good option for exploring the town.
- Important Things to Carry: Carry comfortable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and a water bottle. Respect the local customs and dress modestly when visiting temples.
- Safety and Health Tips: Stay hydrated, avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach, and keep your belongings safe in crowded areas.Top of FormBottom of Form
Conclusion
A Puri Jagannath Temple pilgrimage is a journey filled with spiritual and cultural experiences. By planning a trip to Puri Jagannath Temple carefully and following the tips for first-time visitors to Puri, you can ensure a memorable visit. Reaching Puri Jagannath Temple from various cities in India is convenient with multiple travel options available. Whether you choose to fly, travel by train, or take a road trip, planning ahead and following these tips can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Start planning your Puri Jagannath Temple pilgrimage to experience the divine and serene atmosphere of this historic temple.