Puri Rath Yatra Information :
Puri otherwise known as Jagannath Puri is a coastal city on the shores of Bay of Bengal, in the state of Orissa, India. The city has been highlighted on the world map for the majestic presence of the Jagannath Temple and the annual chariot festival commonly called the ‘Rath Yatra’. Puri is of immense significance for the millions of Hindus located worldwide. It is considered to be one of the ‘Char Dhams’ or the four most pious shrines of religious significance amongst Hindus and it is believed inHinduism that to attain salvation a visit to all these shrines is a must in one’s lifetime.The salubrious sea beach, the beach festival and the local handicrafts are the other attraction of this city. The literal meaning of Puri is city and it is believed to be called Jagannath Puri meaning the city of lord Jagannath.
The long indented coastline of Puri continues to attract tourists of all age groups. The mighty waves of Bay of Bengal, the saline breeze, the sands, the astonishing sun rise and sun set makes Puri one of the most picturesque beach resorts of India. The beach attains its zenith during the night with the ghastly waves breaking the silence with their roars. The star studded sky with the bright moon and the twinkling on the sands makes it a holiday destination desired by all. This tranquilizing beach has been instrumental in set up of many beautiful beach resorts in Puri. The rise in these numbers simplified the entire Puri hotel booking process. While the recent ones promise you the best hospitality and heavenly comforts, the older ones have been gracefully holding the charms of bygone era.
Puri beach festival commemorates the beauty of Indian music and dance. These days even western music and dance has also been incorporated to create a perfect fusion. The market near Puri serves as an ideal destination for shopping. The traditional handicrafts, the jewelry and wall art made up of shells and sands is definite of adding the aquatic colors to your possessions. The excavation of the sites Kurum, Manikapatna and Klkha Patna brings in the historic flavors. The presence of temples dated various centuries of ancient and medieval ages narrates the cultural wealth and grandeur of Puri. Theatres, Opera, Library and museums are the other significant sites of tourist interest. Puri also serves as a base for excursion to nearby places like Konarak, Chilka, Udaygiri and Khand Giri etc.
Life of the dwellers of Puri has been revolving around the Jagannath Temple since 12th century. It is the only temple in India where Radha resides with lord Krishna along with the incarnations of deity Durga viz. Lakshmi, Durga, Sati, Parvati and Shakti. There are countless celebrations and festivals associated with this holy temple all through the year, but the Rath Yatra or the chariot festival being the most significant one. A grand procession of the three deities of the temple - Lord Jagannath, Lord Balbhadra and Goddess Shubhadra is taken on the auspicious day of 2nd day of Shukla Paksha (waxing cycle of moon) in the month of Asadh as per the lunar calendar followed in certain parts of India. The deities are accompanied by the celestial wheel called the Sudarshan Chakra. Three immensely decorated chariots are constructed every year for each of the God. The festival commemorates the journey of the lords from the main temple to the abode of queen Gundicha who is the wife of King Indryuman who is believed to be the founder of this Temple.
How To reach Puri:-
By Air:- The Biju Pattanaik Airport of Bhubaneshwar connects Puri by air. The nearest international airport is Kolkata.By Rail:- Puri itself is a railway junction and is connected directly to all the major cities of India. The next significant railhead is Bhubaneshwar.
By Road:- strong> Buses and Taxis connects Puri with rest of the world by road. The proximity to the state capital Bhubaneshwar connects it to the networks of state and national highways. OTDC operates luxurious bus service between Puri and nearest cities. Konarak marine Drive is also an alternate way to approach the city.
When to Visit
Though Puri continues to attract tourists all through the year, the best time to visit Puri is between October to April.