About Jagannath Temple, Puri, Odisha
The Shri Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha, is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, worshipped with his brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra. It is one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage sites and one of the most important Vaishnava temples in India.
The temple is known for the Rath Yatra, the annual chariot festival, and for Mahaprasad, the food offered to the Lord and shared with devotees. It stands near the Bay of Bengal in the heart of Puri.
Story of Jagannath Temple
The temple was built in the twelfth century by King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva of the Ganga dynasty and was later extended by other rulers. Its tall shikhara is topped by the Nilachakra, a wheel of eight metals, and the complex is enclosed by high walls with four gateways.
The main entrance is the Singhadwara, or Lion Gate, which leads to the flight of steps called the Baisi Pahacha. The temple kitchen is among the largest in the world and prepares food in earthen pots.
What Makes Jagannath Temple Sacred for Devotees
Lord Jagannath and the Char Dham
Puri is the eastern Char Dham, and the deities are worshipped in a distinctive wooden form that is renewed in a ceremony known as Nabakalebara. Devotees regard the Lord as the master of the universe who is approachable to all.
Mahaprasad
Food offered to Lord Jagannath is called Mahaprasad and is shared among devotees without distinction. It is sold at Ananda Bazar within the temple complex.
Annual Festivals & Rituals at Jagannath Temple, Puri, Odisha
Rath Yatra Celebrations at the Temple
In the month of Ashadha, the three deities are drawn on huge chariots to the Gundicha Temple, drawing millions of devotees.
Snana Yatra Celebrations at the Temple
The deities are bathed ceremonially before the Rath Yatra in the month of Jyeshtha.
Nabakalebara Celebrations at the Temple
A rare ceremony in which the wooden deities are replaced, held in certain years according to the calendar.
Sacred Places to Visit Near Jagannath Temple
Gundicha Temple : The destination of the Rath Yatra, about 3 km from the main temple.
Puri Beach : A well-known sea beach close to the town, visited at sunrise.
Konark Sun Temple : A UNESCO World Heritage Site about 35 km away, often visited with Puri.
Plan Your Visit to Jagannath Temple
NamanDarshan is a technology platform that arranges darshan and related services on your behalf through independent service providers.
Common Questions About Visiting Jagannath Temple
Visitor Information
Darshan Timing
Address
Shri Jagannath Temple, Puri, Odisha, India
How to Reach the Temple
By Air: The nearest major airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar, about 60 km away.
By Rail: Puri railway station connects the town to major cities.
By Road: Puri is linked by road to Bhubaneswar and Konark.