Sri Jagannath Temple Puri: A Complete Travel & Pilgrimage Guide 2025

Jul 12, 2025

The Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha, is a revered Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu, one of the four sacred dhams in Hinduism. The temple houses the deities of Lord Jagannath, his brother Lord Balabhadra, and his sister Goddess Subhadra. The temple is also widely known for its architecture, which was built in the Kalinga style. It is also considered to be one of the 10 richest temples in India. The temple is a magnificent and iconic structure, with its main temple reaching a height of 65 meters. The other famous part of the Sri Jagannath Temple is the annual Rath Yatra festival, where the deities are taken on elaborately decorated chariots, a significant event that draws millions of devotees. The temple is a primary pilgrimage site with great religious and cultural importance for Hindus. The temple is known for its large kitchens, where a massive quantity of food (Bhog) is prepared and offered to the deities daily. The temple is known for its large kitchens, where an enormous amount of food (Bhog) is prepared and offered to the deities daily.

While planning to visit the Sri Jagannath Temple, Odisha, you can review the information below and get updated on the essential things about the Sri Jagannath Temple. To further know about the following, look at the information below and get more details about visiting the Jagannath Temple.

The Timings for Visiting the Sri Jagannath Temple

When you visit the Sri Jagannath Temple in Odisha, you must ensure that you visit during the opening hours for darshan. The specific timings for the rituals and other activities within the temple vary. To learn about the timings, focus on the information mentioned and get further updates on the temple's timings for darshan and other routines.

Darshan Timings: The temple generally opens for darshan around 5:30 AM after the Mangal Ara and closes around 9:00 PM.

Ritual Timings: Many rituals are performed at particular times. To learn about the following, review the details mentioned and get updated.

Mangal Arati: 5:00 AM (Dwarpitha and Mangal Aarti).
Mailam: 6:00 AM and 6:45 AM.
Abakash: 6:00 AM to 6:30 AM.
Sahanamela: 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM.
Beshalagi: 8:00 AM.
Rosha Homa Surya Puja and Dwarapal: 8:00 AM to 8:30 AM.
Gopala Ballava Puja: 9:00 AM.
Sakala Dhupa (Morning food offering): 10:00 AM.
Madhyanha Dhupa (Afternoon food offering): 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
Sandhya Dhupa: 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
Sandhya Arati: 5:30 PM.
Khata Seja Lagi and Pahuda: 12:00 AM.

See also: Top 10 Famous Temples in Delhi

The Must-Visit Places Near the Sri Jagannath Temple

When visiting the Sri Jagannath Temples in Puri, Odisha, there are other major attractions nearby that you can explore. To learn more about the must-visit places near the Sri Jagannath temple, go through the details mentioned and get updated accordingly.

Konark Sun Temple: Visit the Konark Sun Temple, which is near the Jagannath temple. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a 13th-century temple known for its unique architecture and intricate carvings.
Puri Beach: Puri Beach is a famous spot for relaxation and chilling in Puri. You can lie down at the beach, get all related, and enjoy the sea instead, with opportunities for sand art and water sports.
Chilika Lake: A vast brackish water lagoon, home to diverse wildlife, especially migratory birds. It is also the largest brackish water lagoon with estuarine character that sprawls along the east coast of the Indian sub-continent in Asia.
Raghurajpur Artist Village: Raghurajpur Artist Village, also known as the Heritage Crafts Village of Odisha, is a unique village near Puri, Odisha, famous for its traditions of Pattachitra paintings, Palm leaf engravings, and other crafts.
Gundicha Temple: Visit the Gundicha temple, which is also known as the Garden House of Lord Jagannath. It is 3 kilometres from the main Jagannath Temple, where Lord Jagannath stays during the annual Ratha Yatra festival.
Sakshigopal Temple: Visit the Sakshigopal Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is known for its religious significance and architectural beauty.

The Modes to Reach the Sri Jagannath Temple

To visit the Sri Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha, for darshan, you can travel by air, train, or road. The nearest airport is in Bhubaneswar, where you can take a taxi or bus to Puri. Puri is also well connected by train, with direct routes from major cities. To learn more about the following modes, look at the details below, and proceed with your preferred mode accordingly.

By Air:

Reach the nearest airport, Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) in Bhubaneswar, about 60 km from Puri. Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) in Bhubaneswar is 60 km from Puri. The journey from Bhubaneswar to Puri by taxi takes approximately 1.5 hours, according to travel websites.

By Train:

You can travel to Puri by train instead, as Puri has its own railway station (Puri Railway Station) and is well-connected to various cities across India. Several express and superfast trains operate between Puri and major cities like Kolkata, Mumbai, New Delhi, and Hyderabad. The journey from Bhubaneswar to Puri typically takes 1 to 1.5 hours by train and reaches the destination.

By Road:

You can reach Puri by road, as it is well-connected. Puri is well connected by road to other parts of Odisha and neighbouring states. Buses, including state-run and private operators, are available from major cities like Bhubaneswar, Vishakhapatnam, and Kolkata. You can also drive to Puri or hire a taxi.

The Guidelines to Follow when Travelling to Sri Jagannath Temple

When visiting the Sri Jagannath Temples in Puri, devotees must follow specific guidelines to ensure a respectful and meaningful experience. Read the information mentioned below to learn more about the following rules and regulations and get updated accordingly.

Dress Modestly: When visiting the temple, wear traditional attire like sarees, dhotis, or salwar suits out of respect and to follow the culture.
Respect the Sanctity: Maintain silence, observe the queue system and refrain from causing any disturbance.
Cleanliness: Keep the temple premises clean and avoid spitting or littering. It is our responsibility to keep the surroundings clean and pure.
Offerings: Deposit the offerings in designated donation boxes available at the temples, and avoid giving to unauthorised people.
Follow instructions: Adhere to the temple's instructions, which other authorities and volunteers give. Follow up with the rules and regulations.
Be Aware: Be mindful of your belongings and surroundings, especially regarding pickpockets and monkeys. Keep your belongings close to you.

See also: 15 famous temples in Hyderabad

Therefore, after reviewing the information mentioned above, you must be updated about Jagannath, the famous temple in India, and the nearby places that you can explore. For further concerns or queries, go through the frequently asked questions as cited and get further updated.

FAQ

1. What is the best time to visit the Sri Jagannath Temple?

When planning to visit the Sri Jagannath Temple in Odisha, it is also suggested that you visit during the best time. The preferred time to see Puri is between October and February, as the weather is quite pleasant.

2. What famous festivals are celebrated in the Sri Jagannath Temple?

The temple is famous for its festivals, which include the Rath Yatra and other festivals, including Snana Yatra. Chanan Yatra, Dola Yatra and makara Sankranti.

3. What prohibited items can you not carry inside the Sri Jagannath Temple?

As per the rules and regulations, a few sticky items, including footwear, leather items, mobile phones, cameras, and other belongings, are prohibited and not allowed to be carried inside the tenants' apartments.

4. Are non-Hindus allowed to enter Shree Jagannath Temple?

No, non-Hindus are generally prohibited from entering the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri. According to the Odisha government, a sign at the entrance states that only orthodox Hindus are permitted.

5. What are the dressing rules at the Shree Jagannath temple?

The Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri has a dress code for devotees entering the temple. It is suggested that you wear decent clothes while entering the temple. Apparel like half pants, shorts, torn jeans, skirts, and sleeveless dresses is prohibited.

6. What are the Guidelines for darshan at the Shree Jagannath temple?

While visiting the Jagannath Temple, it is suggested that you maintain discipline and cooperate with the temple staff. Photography and videography inside the temple are strictly prohibited. Also, avoid touching the Deities or structures.

7. Where can I get the Mahaprasadam?

You can also get the Mahaprashadam at the Ananda Bazaars inside the temple premises. The distribution process involves following a queue system.

8. Is any special assistance service available for the elderly or disabled visitors at Jagannath Temple?

Yes, Wheelchairs are available at the temple for restricted use by visitors who need them. The temple also has ramps and smooth pathways to facilitate movement for people with disabilities, including those in Wheelchairs.

9. What is the famous prasadam of Jagannath Temple?

The most famous prasadam of Jagannath Temples includes these popular dishes: rice, dal, mixed vegetables, and sweets like Khaja and Nadiya. Over 56 varieties of food are prepared as part of the daily Mahaprasad offering.

10. How many days are enough to travel to Jagannath Puri?

A trip of 3-4 days is generally recommended to explore Jagannath Puri and its surrounding attractions. This allows for a comfortable visit to the Jagannath Temple, Puri beach, Konark Sun Temple, and other nearby sites like Chilika Lake and craft villages.