Puri, the Land of Jagannath, is a revered Hindu destination and part of the sacred Char Dham Circuit, as it is home to Shri Jagannath Temple. Therefore, this pious city of Odisha is a major pilgrimage destination. Numerous temples in Puri hold unparalleled significance and reflect religious roots and cultural majesty. You can visit these sites while enjoying your trip in this city and foster genuine connections with spirituality. So, here is a list of some of the most visited Puri temples on a pilgrimage journey.
Sri Jagannath Temple
One of the Char Dham Pilgrimage temples, this iconic temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, also known as the God of the Universe. The temple redefines the word mystical through its architecture, positive vibes, and various aspects, like the flag on the roof. Plus, it has a legendary kitchen, where you will always find a supply of offerings, irrespective of the number of devotees.
- Significance: Its massive annual Rath Yatra showcases three colossal chariots for Jagannatha, Balabhadra, and Subhadra.
- Timing: 5:30 AM to 9:00 PM
Gundicha Temple
This temple is key to Puri’s Rath Yatra, serving as Lord Jagannath’s vacation home. Its serene location amidst lush gardens gives it the name of the "Garden House of Jagannath" and becomes the deity’s residence during the festival’s nine-day highlight.
- Significance: A Special and unique ritual washing of the temple is done one day before the Chariot Festival.
- Timing: 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM (Open Only During Rath Yatra)
Vimala Temple
This temple is within the Jagannath Temple complex and is dedicated to Goddess Vimala, a manifestation of Shakti. It is one of the Shakti Peeths and symbolizes divine femininity. This temple has several tales, myths, and stories you can easily hear from the locals. Hence, it draws spiritual seekers with deep respect and curiosity about its mystical aura.
- Significance: The temple combines tantric rituals with Vaishnavite traditions in a unique way that is undoubtedly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
- Timing: 5:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 4 PM to 11:30 PM
Varahi Temple
It is dedicated to Goddess Varahi, one of the Sapta Matrikas. The temple is home to an idol of Goddess Viraha in her boar-headed form, holding a fish in one hand and a skull in the other. Plus, her gigantic belly resembles the Universe.
- Significance: Known for its rare tantric architectural style,
- Timing: 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Bedi Hanuman Temple
This small yet significant temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, a Jagannath Temple protector. "Bedi" refers to the bonds on Hanuman’s feet, symbolizing his vow to protect the area. It’s a testament to divine assurance that makes it one of the unique temples in Puri.
- Significance: Lord Hanuman is believed to guard the sea and stop flooding in the region.
- Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Loknath Temple
This revered Shiva temple in Puri holds a naturally submerged Shiva lingam with a flowing fountain. The lingam is hidden throughout the year and opens during Shivratri for Darshana. Hence, its annual Mahashivaratri celebration and its ancient, serene atmosphere add to its religious importance.
- Significance: Believed to cure diseases and devotees come here to get health blessings
- Timing: 5:00 am to 9:00 pm
Markandeshwar Temple
This ancient temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and named after Sage Markandeya, has exquisite carvings and houses a Shiva Lingam. Devotees visit in large numbers to receive blessings of longevity and experience its tranquil spiritual aura.
- Significance: A ghat is also known as Markandeya Sarovar, also known as the Pancha Tirthas.
- Timing: 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
