Jagannath Temple Puri, is one of the most respected Vaishnava temple in India is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. located in Puri, Orissa. The temple welcomes millions of worshippers each year and is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage destinations. For Hindus, particularly Vaishnavism devotees, Jagannath Temple Puri is a symbol of spirituality, faith, and devotion.
Many Saints and mystics have been associated with the temple including Adi Shankara, Vallabha, Ramananda, Ramanuja, Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and Madhva, Nimbarka. Its main shrine was built in the tenth century by Anantavarman of the Chodaganga dynasty, making it one of the oldest Hindu temples still in existence. However, it is thought that the shrine’s gods are far older and are related to King Indrayumna, a legendary monarch of the Satya yuga and the nephew of Rama.
Rath Yatra in Jagannath Temple
Rath Yatra in Puri is a Hindu chariot celebration in India, is held annually on the second day of the light fortnight in the month of Ashadha and is organized according to the Hindu calendar. It entails carrying an image of a deity through the streets in a chariot. Lord Krishna’s annual visit to Gundicha Temple via Mausi Maa Temple is commemorated by the event. Lord Jagannath is brought out of the temple on stunning chariots on this day along with Lord Balabhadra’s and Goddess Subhadra’s idols are taken out from various chariots and given a tour of the whole town before being taken to the Gundicha Temple. All three idols stay for a while before returning to the main temple.
Rath Yatra in Puri, Odisha, a coastal city celebrates the occasion with great jubilation and devotion. Which brings all Krishna followers and devotees together. It allows everyone, including non-devotees, to serve the Lord for at least one day by remembering Him, chanting His holy names, dancing, and worshipping Krishna prasadam as the Lord enjoys a pleasure ride and blesses everyone along the road.
Popular tourist attractions in Puri
- Jagannath Temple
- Golden Beach (Puri Beach)
- Swargadwar Beach
- Sudarshan Crafts Museum
- Ramachandi Temple
- Markandeshwar Temple
- Konark Sun Temple
- Chilika Lake
How to reach Jagannath Temple Puri
Airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar is the nearest airport which is about 60 km away from the temple.
Train: Puri Railway Stations is the nearest one which is connected to all major cities in India