Puri Travel Guide
Puri, on the Odisha coast, is home to the Jagannath Temple, one of Hinduism's seven holy cities, and the enormous annual Rath Yatra chariot festival. One to two days covers the temple and beach, with the nearby Konark Sun Temple an easy add-on.
By Experience My India Editorial Team · Reviewed by Experience My India Editorial Team · Updated 1 Sept 2026
Government-approved operatorApproved by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India
About Puri
Puri, on the Bay of Bengal in Odisha, is one of Hinduism's seven holy cities, built around the Jagannath Temple, one of India's most important pilgrimage sites. Its Rath Yatra, when three enormous wooden chariots carrying the temple's deities are pulled through the streets by thousands of devotees, is one of Hinduism's largest annual festivals and draws visitors from across India and beyond.
Jagannath Temple
One of Hinduism's most important pilgrimage temples, at the heart of Puri.
Puri Beach
A long stretch of coastline, more a pilgrim and local beach than a resort one.
Konark Sun Temple
A UNESCO World Heritage 13th-century temple built as a giant stone chariot, a short drive from Puri.
The Rath Yatra
The Rath Yatra is Puri's defining event, drawing enormous crowds each year as the temple's deities are carried through the streets on towering, elaborately decorated wooden chariots. Dates follow the Hindu lunar calendar, usually falling in June or July, and travelling to Puri specifically for it means booking accommodation and access well ahead given the scale of the crowds.
Best time to visit, and how many days
October to February is the comfortable season outside the festival; summer is hot and humid on this stretch of coast. One to two days covers the temple and beach, with the Konark Sun Temple an easy half-day add-on.
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Frequently asked questions
Can foreigners enter the Jagannath Temple?
Entry to the inner temple is restricted to Hindus by long-standing tradition; confirm current access rules before visiting, as they are strictly and consistently enforced.
When is the Rath Yatra?
Usually June or July, on dates set by the Hindu lunar calendar; confirm the exact dates for your travel year, as they shift annually.
How far is Konark from Puri?
A short drive, easily combined as a half-day trip from Puri.
How many days do you need in Puri?
One to two days for the temple and beach, plus a half-day for Konark, makes a well-rounded short visit.
Tour packages in Puri
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Jagannath Temple
Jagannath Puri temple tour and VIP darshan
Price on request
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