Puri
Puri is one of India's holiest sites, with thousands of pilgrims flocking here to worship at the renowned Jagannath Temple. The city is also famous for its spectacular Rath Yatra festival, as well as its sandy strip of beach.
How to Get There
The town's main bus station is near Gundicha Temple. The town is also accessible by rail, but train seats can fill up in a flash (especially during the Rath Yatra festival), so it pays to make advance bookings.
How to Get Around
The best way to explore the town is by bicycle, moped, or motorcycle; these can be rented at several places along Chakra Tirtha Road. There are also taxis, cycle rickshaws, and autorickshaws.
Attractions
Dating from the 12th century, the awesome Jagannath Temple is dedicated to the Lord of the Universe (Jagannath is an incarnation of the Hindu god, Vishnu). Non-Hindus are not permitted inside the temple but can get a view of it from the roof of the library across the road (with the library's permission).
Celebrating Lord Krishna's journey from Gokul to Mathura, the colorful Rath Yatra (Car Festival) begins at the Jagannath Temple, with huge chariots—carrying images of Lord Jagannath, along with his brother and sister—hauled by men through the streets. The dates of this festival vary annually, falling in either June or July. For the exact dates, which are often only set a few months before the event, inquire at Orissa Tourism (Chakra Tirtha Road; tel. +91 [0]675 222 3536).
Puri's beach is no match to those of Goa or Kerala states, but it's still nice enough. The best stretch is by the seaside promenade of Marine Parade, although it can get very crowded in the holiday season.
Places to Eat
There are some pleasing places to eat in Puri, with a number of restaurants catering specifically to foreign tastes.
Xanadu does an especially good job of breakfast, from hot eggs (fried, boiled, or scrambled) to crunchy muesli. They also have great lunch and dinner offerings; the prawn dishes are recommended. Chakra Tirtha Road.
Popular with travelers, the Peace Restaurant has a mishmash of menu items, from fish curry to cheese macaroni. There's a pleasant garden on-site. Chakra Tirtha Road.
Places to Stay
Puri's hotels can get booked up quickly, so it's wise to make an advance reservation, especially if you intend visiting during the Rath Yatra or on Indian holidays.
By far the most popular budget place for foreign travelers is the Z Hotel. Once a maharaja's residence, this hotel has large, well-kept rooms (try to get one with a sea view) and an easygoing vibe. There's a restaurant and garden area. Z is a good place for solo women travelers. Chakra Tirtha Road; tel. +91 (0)6752 222554.
The mid-range Hotel Shankar International has a selection of regular rooms and cottages. Although pricier, the cottages, which have porches with quaint swing chairs, are more highly recommended than the regular rooms and still represent great value for the money. Off Chakra Tirtha Road; tel. +91 (0)6752 222696.
If you like your creature comforts, don't look any further than the beachfront Mayfair Beach Resort, which has a combination of standard rooms and cottages. All rooms are attractive and come with cable televisions and mini-bars. The cottages are more spacious and open onto a leafy garden area. The resort has two restaurants and a bar. Chakra Tirtha Road; tel. +91 (0)6752 227800.
General Tips
Before plunging into the ocean, seek local advice about where to swim, as the currents in Puri's waters have caused drowning deaths in the past.
Women are advised not to wander alone on secluded parts of the beach (even during the day), as there have been an increasing number of muggings.
For More Information
Orissa Tourism Chakra Tirtha Road; tel. +91 (0)6752 223536.
Puri District Administration
