Being one of the sacred ‘Char Dham’ pilgrimage sites, Puri is dotted with several old temples that carry great religious, historical and architectural value. Historically known as “Sri Kshetra”, the wealthy land was invaded 18 times by Hindu and Muslim rulers who desired the temple’s treasures. Even in this 21st century, the economy of this religious town mostly depends on the activities surrounding the 12th-century old Jagannatha Temple. Most tourists visit Puri during its vibrant festivals, especially Rath Yatra or Chariot festival.
Along with the temples, the neighborhood also has some picturesque beaches that are perfect for an evening away from the crowded life. Here are some other attractions you will love to visit.
Sweta-Ganga
Sweta Ganga is one of the Pancha Tirthas of Sri Kshetra Dharma. This large sacred bathing tank is located just opposite Ganga Mata Math. Puri’s residents believe that Ganga Devi personally resides here, due to which the pond never becomes dry.
Dakshina Kali
Dakshinakali Temple is one ofthe famous Sakta temples of Puri. Daksinakali Temple is facing towards east and the presiding deity is Goddess Kali. The deity is shown as drinking blood, with a sword and holding the severed head of a demon in two of her hands. If Kali steps out with her right foot and holds the sword in her left hand, she is a Dakshina Kali. Festivals like Kali Puja, Deepavali, Durga Puja, Kumara Purnima, Chaitra Mangalabara, etc. are observed in the Dakshina Kali Temple with great devotion.
Balukhand Deer Park
Balukhand-Konark Wildlife Sanctuary is located along the Bay of Bengal coast, between the towns of Puri and Konark. The sanctuary includes sandy beaches, coastal dunes, groves of introduced cashew plantations.The sanctuary is home to a herd of Blackbuck and Spotted Deer. Other animals found in the sanctuary include monkey, squirrel, jungle cat, hyena, jackal, mongoose, and variety of birds and reptiles.
Daria-Hanuman
The temple is also known as Daria Mahavir Temple. In the local language ‘Daria’ means ‘Sea’ and Mahavir is another name of Lord Hanuman.It is believed that Daria Mahavir protects Sankha kshetra Puri against the fury of the sea. It is Daria Mahavir’s duty to see that the sea does not cross its limits and enter the peripheral boundaries of Puri.
Badadanda
The road infront of Jagannath temple is called as Grand Road or Bada Danda. It is very much spacious and built in the purpose to meet space requirements during the Chariot festival.
Alongwith seeing these places you can visit other beach attractions sand art.The artistic land of Odisha has given birth to skilled artisans who master in Sand art, applique art, stone and wood carvings, and Pattachitra paintings. So plan your Puri trip as soon as possible to see the serene city.
To ensure readers the utmost experience of this limitless beauty of the city Puri, must plan to visit each and every attraction it has.
