Things To Do
in Puri

Puri is a vibrant coastal city located in the eastern Indian state of Odisha, known for its rich cultural heritage and spiritual significance. It is famous for the Jagannath Temple, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, attracting millions of devotees each year. Puri boasts beautiful sandy beaches along the Bay of Bengal, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals.

The city's unique blend of spirituality, history, and natural beauty offers a captivating experience for visitors.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Spirituality and Culture
morning
:

Visit the iconic Jagannath Temple, a significant pilgrimage site, and marvel at its stunning architecture.

afternoon
:

Explore the local markets where you can shop for traditional handicrafts and souvenirs, followed by a visit to the Puri Beach.

evening
:

Enjoy a sunset view at the beach and dine at a local seafood restaurant.

day 2
Day 2: Beach and Nature
morning
:

Relax at Puri Beach, enjoying the early morning sun and local vendors selling breakfast snacks.

afternoon
:

Take a trip to the nearby Chilika Lake for bird watching and boat rides.

evening
:

Return to Puri and experience the local nightlife, perhaps with some live music or cultural performances.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$3
🏨Budget Hotel Night$15
🚕Taxi Ride (within city)$2
🛍️Souvenir Shopping$5
🍺Local Beer$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
  • Beautiful beaches and natural landscapes.
  • Delicious local cuisine with diverse options.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may be less frequent.
  • Hot summers can be uncomfortable for some travelers.
  • "ଆପଣଙ୍କୁ କେମିତି?" - How are you?
  • "ଧନ୍ୟବାଦ" - Thank you.
  • "କୃପୟା" - Please.
  • "ମୋ ନାମ ..." - My name is ...
  • "ମୁଁ ଏଠାରେ ଆସୁଛି" - I am here.

Places to Visit in Puri

Visit one of these nice places.

Jagannath Temple

Capture the majestic architecture and vibrant atmosphere of one of India's holiest temples.

Puri Beach

A picturesque location for sunrise and sunset photography, with the backdrop of the sea.

Chilika Lake

Famous for its rich biodiversity, it's an ideal place for nature photography, especially during bird migration seasons.

Culinary Guide

Food in Puri

Puri offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing the rich flavors of Odia cuisine. Local specialties are abundant, making it a food lover's paradise.

Puri Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pakhala Bhata

A traditional fermented rice dish served with various accompaniments.

Must-Try!

Machha Besara

Fish cooked in mustard sauce, a staple in Odia cuisine.

Chhena Poda

A delicious cheese dessert baked with sugar and cardamom.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Swargadwar Market

A bustling market near the beach offering a variety of street foods and local snacks.

Local Beach Stalls

Vendors selling fresh seafood and traditional snacks right by the shore.

Climate Guide

Weather

Puri experiences a tropical climate with hot summers, pleasant winters, and a monsoon season. Summer temperatures can reach up to 40°C (104°F), while winter temperatures range from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). The monsoon season brings heavy rains, especially from June to September.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

When visiting temples, dress conservatively and remove shoes before entering.

Respect Local Customs

Always ask before taking photos of people or religious sites.

Greetings

A simple 'Namaste' with folded hands is a common greeting.

Safety Guide

Safety

Puri is generally safe for tourists, but it’s advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded places. Keep an eye on personal belongings and avoid poorly lit areas at night. It’s also recommended to drink bottled water to avoid stomach issues.

Tipping in Puri

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants; however, it's not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Cash is preferred, but many restaurants and shops accept digital payments; it's best to carry small denominations.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (December to February)

Mild temperatures make it ideal for beach activities and sightseeing.

Summer (March to May)

Expect hot and humid weather; early morning or late evening outings are recommended.

Monsoon (June to September)

Heavy rainfall can impact travel plans; however, the landscape is lush and beautiful.

Post-Monsoon (October to November)

Pleasant weather with clear skies, perfect for outdoor activities and festivals.

Nightlife Guide

Puri at Night

Puri's nightlife is relatively calm compared to metropolitan cities, with beach shacks and local bars offering a laid-back atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy live music, cultural performances, and a few dance spots, particularly during the tourist season.

Hiking in Puri

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bhitarkanika National Park

Located about 100 km from Puri, this park offers hiking trails through mangrove forests and opportunities to see wildlife.

Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary

An area for birdwatching and hiking, providing scenic views of the lagoon and its diverse ecosystem.

Airports

How to reach Puri by plane.

Biju Patnaik International Airport (Bhubaneswar)

Located approximately 60 km from Puri, this is the nearest major airport, offering domestic and limited international flights. It provides various transport options to reach Puri.

Getting Around

Walkability

Puri is quite walkable, especially in the beach area and around the Jagannath Temple. The streets are generally pedestrian-friendly, with many attractions within walking distance. However, during peak tourist seasons, it can get crowded, and care should be taken while walking on the roads.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Hindus

The majority of Puri's population is Hindu, deeply connected to the Jagannath Temple and its traditions.

Tourists

Puri attracts a large number of domestic and international tourists, especially during religious festivals and summer months.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Cricket is a highly popular sport in Puri, with many local teams and enthusiasts.

Field Hockey

Field hockey has a strong following, with several clubs promoting the sport among youth.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Puri can be congested, especially during peak tourist seasons. Rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are common modes of transport within the city, and public buses are available for longer distances. It is advisable to plan ahead during festivals when the city sees a surge in visitors.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Puri.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants in Puri offer vegetarian dishes, catering to dietary preferences.

Hygiene Practices

It's advisable to choose places that maintain good hygiene, especially for street food.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Puri are basic, with a few government hospitals and private clinics available. For serious medical issues, it is advisable to travel to larger cities like Bhubaneswar, which has more advanced hospitals. Travel insurance is recommended for international visitors.

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