The most sacred pilgrim center for Hindus in India, Puri also known as the Jagannath (the Lord of Universe) and is credited with the famous Jagannath temple and is along the coast of Bay of Bengal in the state of Orissa in India. The Hindu mythology contained in the Skanda Purana describes Puri as the resting place of Lord Vishnu.
Puri is a large depository of art and architecture of India, especially that of Orissa. The historical and cultural edifices have silvery antiquity dating back to 3rd century B.C. to 17th century A.D. Konark, Bhubaneshwar and Puri complete the golden triangle of Orissa, the three places with majestic history, heritage and many renowned worshipping shrines and of which Puri attracts the maximum number of visitors.
Major attractions nearby Puri include the Chilka Lake, renowned as the biggest inland salt-water lagoon, Puri beach, Gundicha Ghar and the Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary. Many tourists make it a point to visit other attractions like Temple of Child Krishna at Indradyumna Tank, Markandeswar tank, the Museum and Sudarshan Workshop and Atharnala Bridge.
The famous Sun temple of Konark is in the close proximity of less than an hour journey. A major celebration in Puri is Rath Yathra (Car/ Chariot festival), conducted every year. This Car festival, held during June – July period, is associated with the Jagannath temple and during this season many thousands of Hindu Pilgrims throng to Puri to witness the majestic festival. Another festival, which attracts many, is the Puri Beach Festival which is celebrated in the month of November every year.
Puri is an emerging industrial area with the major industries like rice milling, handicrafts and fish curing. Puri is a religious place and a most wanted holiday attraction. Puri engulfs all cultural heritages of ancient India and traditional Hindu beliefs. With historical temples and sacred rituals, Puri draws all the enthusiast tourists to its lap for a lifetime experience.
