Puri is a district of Orissa, situated onthe coast of Bay of Bengal. The district with an ancient history dates back to the 3rd century B.C. is famous for its historic antiquities,architectural grandeur, religious centres and charming beauty. The city is famous for its exquisite temple, magnificent monuments and beaches.
People
Puri has the good conglomerate of different religions,sects and faith. The city is the site of Govardhana matha (monastery),one of the four cardinal institutions founded by Sri Adi Shankaracharya. It is most poius and sacred place for Hindus. Puri presents the blend of ancient and modern India. The people here share a strong sense of holiness with a sense of belonging.
Culture
The life styles of the people mixed with their rich tradition, make Puri the cultural capital of Orrisa. The city is known for the evolution of world famous Odissi Dance and music. The patta-paintings, shell-craft and applique work have a vast demand in the west, especially in U.S.A. Most of the people are vegetarian, Rice is their main diet. In addition sea food is equallypopular here, like the crabs and lobsters with curd and coconut milk
Attractions at Puri
Jagannath Temple - The temple of Lord Jagannath was constructed by Raja Ananta Varman Chodaganga Dev in the 12th century. The temple has the woodenstatues of Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra. This temple 214 feet inheight, is one of the tallest temple in the country. The temple situated on an elevated base, spreads over an area of 10 acres. There are four gates to enter the temple namely the Lion Gate, Horse Gate, Tiger Gate and the Elephant gate. The temple is famous for Ratha Yatra of Chariot festival,which occurs annually in June-July. During the festival the deities Jangannath Balabhadra and Subhadra are taken out from the temple and placed in massive chariots. The deities are then drawn to the Gundecha temple, a few kilometers away. After seven days the deities are brought back toJagganath Temple.
Chilika - Chilika the largest brackish water lake in Asia covers an area of over 1,110 sq. Kms. The pear shaped lake is situated on the eastern coast of Orissa. The lake is formed due to the silting actions of the Mahandi river and the northerly currents in the Bayof Bengal. Set amidst the serene atmosphere, the lake has blue water on one side and an evergreen range of hills on the other side. The lake is a major tourist attraction for fishing, bird watching and boating. One can see the dolphins at Chilika mouth near Satpara. During winters thousands of indigenous and migratory birds comes here. Chilika has many interesting islands namely Kalijai Island, Honeymoon Island, Breakfast Island, Birds Island, Nalabana (Island of Reeds), Parikud Island, etc. The Kalakaji Island houses the temple of Goddess Kalijai. The Nalabana Island is located at a distance of 10 Kms is the central point for the migratory birds.
Gundicha Ghar - 
The Gunchida Ghar or Temple is regarded as the holy place. This place is considered as the place of Lord Jagannath's aunt Gundicha. The people believe that Lord stays here for 9 days, during the Rath festival of Chariot festival. The belief still stands today, during the Jagannath festival the deities Jangannath Balabhadra and Subhadra are taken to the Gundicha temple on chariot.
Puri Beach - The white sand beach of Puri, is perhaps the only walk able beach on the east coast of India. Situated on the coast of bay of Bengal, the beach has the sweets and snacks hawkers. One can enjoy the lazy walk by the sea, with sips of tea or coconut water. The local boatman offers a boat ride into the sea.
Indrayamuna Tank - Located on the north western part of the Gundicha Ghar, this Indradyumna Tank is one among the five sacred tanks of Puri. The place is famous its religious importance and its connection to Lord Krishna. A temple of child Krishna stands here. Near the temple is a small shrine, dedicated to King Indrayumna of Orissa.
Atharnala Bridge - The bridge built in 13thcentury is a must visit site in Puri. The bridge built over the Manduour stream is situated at the entrance of the town. The massive bridge is considered as architectural gem and is still in use by the people.
Museums - Puri has two famous museums namely District Museum Puri and Handicraft museum Batagaon. The District museum houses the different veshas of Lord Jagannath, various Kinds of sculptures,Patta paintings, Palm leaf paintings, Tassar paintings, numerous varieties of Handicrafts etc. The Handicraft museum is situated at Batagaon, 5 Kms form Puri displays several kinds of handicrafts.
Excursions
Raghurajpur - The village known as craftsman's village is located at a distcance of 12 Kms from Puri. The village is the birthplace of the popular Orissa Patta chitra textiles or fabrics decorated with the art of Orissa.The beautiful village with skilled painters or chitrakars presents the typical picture of an Indian village.
Sakhi Gopal - Sakhi Gopal , 25 Kms from Puri is a holy place related to Lord Krishna. The legend says that Lord Krishna visit this place as a witness or Sakhi to sort out a dispute between two Brahmans.The place has a massive statue of the child Krishna.
Konark - Situated at a distance of 35 Kms from Puri, Konark has the historical as well as architectural importance. Konark is famous for the Sun temple, built by the King Narshimadeva in the 13th century.. The temple now in ruins, was designed in the shape of a colossal chariot, carrying Surya (Sun God) across the heavens. Just 3 Kms from the temple site, the Konark beach is regarded as one of the finest beaches onthe eastern coast.
Accessibility :
Puri is situated at a distance of 60 Kms from the state capital Bhubaneswar. Bhubaneswar is well-connected by Air, Road and Rail links.
» Air - Bhubaneswar (60 Kms) is the nearestair port. Indian airlines offer flights from Delhi, Kolkata, Hyderaba,Chennai, Mumbai, Visakhapatnam and Nagpur etc.
» Rail - Puri rail head is well-connected with Delhi, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Vishakhapatnam, Vijaywada, Tiruvanantapuram and Tirupati etc. Bhubaneswar (60 Kms) railwaystation is very close to Puri, it is linked to many major cities like Chennai, Bangalore and Kochi etc.
» Road - Puri is connected by State highway with Bhubaneswar (60 Kms). Regular bus services connect Puri to Bhubaneswar and other nearby places.
Accommodation :
The hotels of the city offers varied options for the guests. Some of the famous hotels of the city are Toshali Sands (4 Star), My fair Beach Resort (3 Star), Hotel Vijoya International (3 Star), Hotel Arya Palace (2 Star),Hotel Coco Palms, Hotel Holiday Resort, Hotel Samudra and Hotel Sonali etc.
Best Time to Visit :
Puri has a typical tropical climate, it become very hot and humid during summers and rainy season. The beat time to visit the city is in winters from October to March.
Customize your Tour Package >>>
Basic Inclusions of the package :
- Assisted transfers from airport to hotel and back
- Accommodation in Hotels (as per the category selected)
- Daily Breakfast Buffet
- City tour + Drives by private car
- An English / Language speaking well mannered guide during sightseeing trips
- All currently applicable taxes
Exclusions :
- Any meal unless mentioned above, personal expenses like telephone /laundry bills etc.
- Entrance fees and still camera or video camera charges at various monuments and museums.
- Tips and gratuities to drivers, guides, and bellboys at hotels
- Departure taxes or Visa handling fees (A Visa is required to visit India)
- Any International Air fare, Airports tax and travel insurance etc. and other services not specified above.
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions.
Remarks
» All prices quoted per person in INR. on twin sharing basis. Rates subject to change without notice Rates are applicable for a minimum of two (2) persons travelling at one time.
» Rates are applicable for Indian market only.
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