In addition to the major attractions like the Jagannath Temple and the Konark Sun Temple, the area around Puri offers a wealth of diverse and interesting places to visit. Here are some other attractions you can explore near Puri:
Cultural and Artistic Attractions
- Raghurajpur Artist Village: Located about 12 km from Puri, this heritage crafts village is a living museum of Odishan art. Every house in the village is an artist’s studio, specializing in traditional Pattachitra paintings, palm-leaf etchings, and other handicrafts. You can watch the artists at work, buy authentic souvenirs, and even see Gotipua dance performances, a traditional dance form that is a precursor to Odissi.
- Pipili: This town, situated on the Puri-Bhubaneswar highway, is renowned for its vibrant appliqué work, a traditional craft of Odisha. You’ll find a wide variety of colorful shops selling handcrafted decorative items, bags, and wall hangings.
- Sudarshan Crafts Museum: Founded by the internationally acclaimed sand artist Sudarshan Sahoo, this museum showcases the evolution of traditional and modern craftsmanship in stone and wood carving. It’s a great place to see a wide range of sculptures and artistic works.
Nature and Wildlife
- Balukhand Wildlife Sanctuary: Situated along the coast between Puri and Konark, this sanctuary is a protected area and a hidden gem for nature lovers. It’s a coastal forest home to various species of flora and fauna, including blackbucks, spotted deer, and numerous bird species.
- Astaranga Beach: A quieter and less commercialized beach located about 50 km from Puri, Astaranga is known for its spectacular sunsets. The name “Astaranga” literally means “colorful sunset” in Odia. It’s a peaceful spot perfect for a day trip.
- Ramachandi Beach: Located at the confluence of the Kushabhadra River and the Bay of Bengal, this beach is popular for its serene environment and water sports. It also has a temple dedicated to Goddess Ramachandi.
Historical and Religious Sites
- Dhauli Hill: Located about 65 km from Puri (near Bhubaneswar), Dhauli is historically significant as the site of the Kalinga War, which led Emperor Ashoka to embrace Buddhism. The hill features Ashokan rock edicts and a stunning Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa) built by the Japan Buddha Sangha.
- Alarnath Temple: A pilgrimage site located in Brahmagiri, about 25 km from Puri. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and it’s a popular belief that during the “Anavasara” period (when the Jagannath deities are kept in seclusion before the Rath Yatra), devotees should visit the Alarnath Temple to receive the blessings of Lord Jagannath.
- Sakhigopal Temple: Located on the way to Bhubaneswar from Puri, this temple is dedicated to Lord Gopinath (Krishna). The temple has a unique legend associated with it, where the deity is said to have served as a witness for a devotee.
Other Activities
- Narendra Tank: One of the largest tanks in Odisha, this sacred water body is located in Puri and has an island in the middle with a temple called Chandana Mandapa. It is a hub of festivities during the Chandana Yatra festival.
