Puri is a large coastal town, 50 km away from Bhubaneshwar. Puri is a perfect mix of sacred and beach holiday. Mostly preferred by the travellers from West Bengal and Jharkhand, Puri is a great weekend escape. It is a country famous name as this city is one of the Char Dhams of Hindu religion. Being one of the 7 holy Indian cities, Puri not only offers religious pursuits but a great happiness to the visitor's mind. The wonderful beaches of Puri are ideal for swimming and bathing. However, be cautious the climate and the sea water may make you tan. Well, like other known cities of India, Puri is now frequented by travellers from across the world. The foreigners enjoy the profane environment and the beach. The hotels in Puri are strategically located throughout the city. Most of the hotels are placed in the station road and near to the sea beach.
During the colonial period, Puri was one of the summer residences of the British government. Owing the fact it was later known for its British- style seaside town. Later in the 1960s and 70s, it became a hippy trail. Now, most of the seaside areas and hotels are occupied by the tourists from Kolkata. With huge waves and strong currents, Puri beaches are long sandy one. Puri's Jagannath temple is the main attraction of the place. Once upon a time this was a thickly wooded hilly region, now this bear shape littoral city and it is a bustling town of Bhubaneshwar. Generally, this place is referred as the Land of the Lord of Universe.
Only Hindus are allowed inside the temple. Every year in the summer, the great Rath Yatra is held here. Jai Jagannath, these two words are like a magic spell to any Jagannath believer and Oriya living anywhere in the Earth. For the state dwellers, they share a special feeling and relation with Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra. The day of Rath Yatra is considered to be auspicious for any events like weddings, housewarmings and inaugural events not only by Oriya but also by the Bengalis. During Rath Yatra, the deities are taken out of the sanctum and they take a nirvana path to the nearby Gundicha temple. This is a sight to behold. Thousands and thousands of devotees and tourists gather here to witness this Chariot festival. Pujaris, Pandas and devotees pull the chariot to the Gundicha temple. Even, touching or pulling the rope of the chariot is believed to wash all your sins. It is a sort of blessing from the Lord of Universe to get a chance to pull his chariot. However, unfortunately, every year people get wounded during performing this task. This grand celebration with three huge, beautifully decorated chariots is a tradition which is continuing from the 12th century.
There are several other attractions of the place. October to March is the favourable time to explore the city. Bhubaneshwar Airport is about 53 km away. Check air ticket booking for more information. From Bhubaneshwar buses, taxis and trains are available to reach Puri. Puri has its own well-maintained railway station which is well-connected with other major cities of the country. So, just pack your bag and head to beautiful Puri.
Martin Wynn
