The Puri Jagannath Temple, one of the four holy sites of Char Dham Yatra, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is located in Puri, Odisha, India.
Historical Significance of Puri Jagannath Temple
There are many stories related to the construction of the Jagannath temple. According to the first story, King Indradyumna, who was the king of the Pandya dynasty, used to do penance of Lord Vishnu. Once, Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu, appeared in his dream and advised him to install his idol and then he got the magnificent Jagannath temple constructed in 1078.
According to another story, King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva, who was the king of the Eastern Ganga dynasty, built the Jagannath temple in the 12th century.
It is believed that when Lord Vishnu left the world, his entire body merged into the five elements except his heart, which still beats in the idol of Lord Jagannath.
Despite many challenges and obstacles over time, there has been no decrease in the devotion and spirituality of the devotees, while the devotion of the devotees has increased, that is why even today lakhs of devotees come to see Lord Jagannath.
Architectural Marvel of Jagannath Temple
The Jagannath temple is built with high skill which shows the grandeur of the temple.
Key Features
The main sanctum houses three wooden idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra (brother) and Subhadra (sister).
There is a blue circle on the top of the temple which shows protection.
It is said that the temple has no shadow and no bird or plane can fly over the temple.
The flag on the top of the Jagannath temple, reflecting the divinity, always flutters in the opposite direction of the wind.
As the Puri Jagannath Temple is situated on the seashore, there is a lot of noise due to the sea waves but all the noise disappears as soon as you enter the temple.
Rath Yatra: The Festival of Chariots
Once a year, Rath Yatra is organized in Puri Jagannath Temple, in which lakhs of devotees take part. During the yatra, the three idols Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra (brother) and Subhadra (sister) are placed on chariots and taken around the streets of Puri with much gaiety.
This event reflects devotion towards Lord Jagannath and Hindu culture.
Lakhs of devotees take part in the Rath Yatra and the entire city resounds with the chants of Lord Jagannath.
How to Reach Puri Jagannath Temple
By Air
The first route to reach Jagannath Temple is by air which is located at Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar, about 60-70 km from the temple.
By Train
The second route to reach Jagannath Temple is by rail which is located at Puri Railway Station, Puri, about 3-5 km from the temple.
By Road
Puri city is well connected to all major cities and regular buses and taxis are easily available.
Best Time to Visit
The temple is open throughout the year.
Best time
During Rath Yatra (June-July)
Post monsoon (October-February)
Tips for Visitors
There is no dress code for the temple, but devotees should still maintain the decorum of the temple.
Devotees should come on time to avoid long queues.
Devotees should follow the rules of the temple and pay special attention to cleanliness.
Do not forget to take the divine Mahaprasad available in the temple.
Frequently Asked Questions About Puri Jagannath Temple
Can I visit Temple without registration?
Yes.
Is phone allowed in Temple?
No, camera and mobile phones are not allowed inside the temple.
Who is allowed to enter Temple?
Only Hindu are allowed.
If you want information about more religious Places and Religious Yatras then please Visit Here.
