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Located on the eastern coastline of India, Puri is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state of Orissa. Being a prominent Hindu pilgrimage center, Puri consists of many holy temples, Jagannath Temple being the most famous. There are a number of places to visit in and around Puri that fascinate plenty of tourists from all over the country. Besides the temples, Chilka Lake near Puri is a brackish water coastal lake. It is popularly known as the 'honeymooners paradise'.
Puri has several cultural and religious destinations and various excursion sites near the city. The holy temples are included in the major tourist attractions in and around Puri. The Jagannath Temple is the most sacred temple in the city. Dedicated to Lord Jagannath, the Jagannath Temple in Puri has great religious significance for the Hindus.
Constructed by Raja Ananta Varman Chodaganga Dev in the 12th century, it is one of the tallest temples in India. Its height reaches 192 feet, and its spire can be seen from far away and adds to the temple's majestic appeal. The singular feature of the temple is that the deities of Subhadra, Jagannath and Balrama here are made of wood. These divine siblings reside in the main temple. Besides the main temple, there are many small temples dedicated to Goddess Laxmi, Vimla, and other Gods and Goddesses in the temple complex. All total, there are 120 temples in the sprawling complex. The most popular event, Rath Yatra is associated with this Jagannath Temple. Rath Yatra starts at Jagannath Temple, amidst euphoria and frenzied festivity, and culminates at the Gundicha Ghar Temple. The procession of the idols of Jagannath, Balarama and Subhadra are taken on three ornate chariots, which are pulled by a sea of people. It takes place during June-July.
Gundicha Ghar Temple is another important sacred place in the city of Puri. Gundicha Ghar is the home of the aunt of Lord Jagannath, Subhadra and Balabhadra. It is believed that these divine beings spend a week every year at Gundicha Ghar Temple during the festival of Rath Yatra. After a week-long sojourn, the idols of these Gods and Goddess are again brought back in chariots, pulled by a huge crowd of euphoric devotees.
The Indradyumna Tank, located to the north-east of Gundicha Ghar, also has a great religious importance. It is spread across four-and-a-half acres and has several small temples on its banks. It houses a child Krishna Temple and a small shrine devoted to King Indradyumna of Orissa. The wonderful Atharnala Bridge was constructed in the 13th century. It is a unique example of ancient engineering marvel. Located at the entrance of the city, Atharnala Bridge is about 85x11 meters in size.
Located at a distance of about 20 km from Puri, Satyabadi is popular for the shrine of Sakshigopal - a life size image of child Krishna or Gopal. Raghurajpur Village is situated at a distance of about 16 km from the city of Puri. It is considered as the heritage craft village of the state of Orissa. It is popular for its traditional arts and crafts.
Puri beach is of course included in the list of enchanting tourist attractions in and around Puri. Puri beach is the one of the best destinations for wonderful beach holidaying. It is one of the most frequently visited beaches in India. One can have breathtaking views of sunrise and sunset from Puri beach. This beach is popular for its turbulent waters and serene ambience. Puri Beach Festival, organized during the month of November, is popular throughout the country.
Balighai beach is situated at a distance of about 8 km from the city of Puri. The casurina fringed beach has an ambience of tranquility associated with it. It is an isolated and a clean beach. One may have a glimpse of the Baliharina deer that lives in this area. The Sea Turtle Research Center is another tourist attraction on this beach. The beaches in and around Puri are also popular for their sand sculptures.
Collect more information about following tourist attractions in and around Puri:
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