Things To Do
in Puri
Puri is a sacred coastal city in Odisha, renowned for the Jagannath Temple and its golden-sand beaches. Pilgrims and travelers mingle here, especially during the Rath Yatra, when processions fill the streets. The city blends centuries-old Odia culture with the energy of the Bay of Bengal, offering lively markets, seafood, and handicrafts.
Beyond the temple, Puri serves as a gateway to the Chilika Lake and the Konark Sun Temple, all within easy reach.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Jagannath Temple, where the atmosphere is filled with devotion and spirituality. Witness the early morning rituals as the priests perform the 'Mangal Aarti' and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Puri. Afterward, stroll through the surrounding lanes to admire the intricate architecture and vibrant local markets.
After lunch at a local eatery, head to the Puri Beach to enjoy the serene views of the Bay of Bengal. You can indulge in some beach activities like beach volleyball or simply relax on the golden sands, soaking up the sun. Explore the nearby fishermen's village to learn about their traditions and way of life.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the beach, enjoying the sound of the waves and the colorful sky. Seek out a local seafood restaurant for dinner, sampling fresh catch of the day prepared in authentic Odia style. Conclude your evening with a visit to the local market, where you can shop for handicrafts and souvenirs.
Kick off the day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel, then make your way to Puri Beach for some thrilling water sports. Engage in activities like jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides, which are sure to get your adrenaline pumping. Don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate the stunning seascape as you splash about in the waves.
After an exhilarating morning, take a break and enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at a beach shack, where you can savor freshly caught fish and local delicacies. Post-lunch, consider renting a bicycle to explore the coastline at a leisurely pace, stopping to appreciate the local flora and fauna. You might even stumble upon some hidden beaches that offer a peaceful retreat.
As the day winds down, find a cozy spot on the beach to watch the sunset over the horizon. The sky will transform into a palette of colors, offering a perfect backdrop for some memorable photographs. Wrap up your day with a beach bonfire, enjoying the warmth and camaraderie with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $1-3 |
| 🏨1 night in budget hotel | $15-30 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two in a mid-range restaurant | $15-40 |
| ☕Coffee or chai | $1-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich spiritual and cultural heritage
- Beautiful beaches and seafood
- Relatively affordable travel within India
- Gateway to Chilika Lake and Konark
- Nightlife is limited for travelers seeking club scenes
- Crowds can surge during festival periods
- Water safety can be challenging on some beaches
- Infrastructure can be congested in peak season
- "Namaskar" - Hello
- "Apana kemiti achhanti?" - How are you?
- "Dhanyabad" - Thank you
- "Kripaya" - Please
- "Mu bhala achhi" - I am fine
- "Bidaya" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Puri
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden sands, fishing boats, and early morning light create classic coastal photography.
Intricate architecture and ceremonial colors shine during golden hours; interior access is restricted, but exteriors offer rich compositions.
Seaside viewpoint with coastal panorama and sunset opportunities.
Elaborate stone carvings and huge chariot wheels make for dramatic daytime shots; best with a clear sky.
Waterways, birdlife, and temple ruins provide atmospheric lake and island photography (subject to boat schedules and weather).
Food in Puri
Puri Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fermented rice with water served with mashed vegetables and fried or dried accompaniments; especially comforting in summer.
Must-Try!
Iconic Odia baked cheese dessert with caramelized edges and a soft center.
Crispy fried fish seasoned with local spices and herbs.
A hearty lentil and vegetable curry flavored with ginger and asafoetida.
Fragrant pulao made with ghee, cumin, and cardamom.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant local market near the temple area offering snacks, sweets, and fresh produce; great for soaking in daily life and trying street bites.
Freshly caught fish and prawns sold by fishermen; look for grilled or fried options right on the shore.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly and cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples; remove shoes before entering sacred spaces.
Greet with Namaskar; use polite language; avoid public displays of affection in crowded areas.
Seek permission before photographing people, especially at religious sites or markets; be mindful of local customs.
Safety
Tipping in Puri
Ensure a smooth experience
A small tip (about 5-10%) is customary if service charge is not included. For porters and guides, a few rupees to a few hundred depending on service is common.
Cash is widely accepted; many places now accept card payments and digital wallets (PhonePe, Paytm, etc.). ATMs are available in town for cash withdrawals.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to May can be hot and humid with high temperatures. Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
June to September brings heavy rainfall and humidity; sea conditions can be rough and travel may be slower. Pack a compact rain jacket and be flexible with beach plans.
October to February offers pleasant weather with cooler mornings and evenings. Ideal for temple visits, long walks, and outdoor exploration.
Puri at Night
Hiking in Puri
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic hills with ancient Jain caves and viewpoints; near Bhubaneswar, offering a pleasant hike.
Ridge trail by the Dhauli river with historic significance and sunset views.
Nature trails and birding around the lake at Satapada or Barkul; combine with boat trips.
Airports
How to reach Puri by plane.
Located in Bhubaneswar, approximately 60-70 km from Puri; major gateway with domestic and international connections.
Kolkata’s airport, about 430-450 km away; alternative for certain international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the coastal population depends on fishing; close-knit communities around the harbor.
Large numbers visit for Jagannath Temple and Rath Yatra; seasonal influx shapes local life.
Odisha-based artisans, traders, and travelers contribute to a vibrant economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport, with local games commonly played in streets and parks.
Widely played in schools and on the beaches; local pickup matches occur along the coast.
Common on Puri Beach during dry season with groups and clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Puri.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are abundant; look for dal, sabzi, rice, and kanika. Most places can adapt dishes to suit vegetarian preferences.
Many rice-based dishes and lentil curries are naturally gluten-free; inform the staff about cross-contamination and avoid wheat-based accompaniments.