Puri

Situated on the shores of the Bay of Bengal, this earthly abode of Lord Jagannath is a place for all times and all seasons. Replete with the magnificent architectural skills of the Kalinga School of Art and Sculpture dating back to the 12 th century A. D. and before, Puri offers the tourist a variety of experiences - from temples to tanks, to curio shopping, to a lovely sunny beach. The temple of Lord Jagannath is considered one of the four most important dhams of Hindus.

Puri

It is an expression of the beautiful 12th century Kalinga art, and is a living temple even now. Non-Hindus are not permitted in its inner sanctum. The main festival that attracts pilgrims and visitors to this 65 metres high temple is the annual Rath Yatra or the Festival of Chariots celebrated during the months of

June-July. A riot of colours and an air of festivity mark the occasion. There are other temples too connected with the temple of Lord Jagannath. Shopping down the main road in front of the temple is fun and rewarding.

ACCESS

Puri is 65 kms from Bhubaneswar, the nearest airport and has direct links with Calcutta, New Delhi, Hyderabad and Mumbai, etc. It is also well connected by road to all major cities through Bhubaneswar/Konark.

PLACES OF INTEREST

Shri Jagannath Temple, Gundicha, Sunnar Gauranga, Loknath Temples, and ponds and tanks like Sweta Ganga, and Indrayumna. The beach too has been developed as a lovely resort.

ACCOMMODATION

Hotel Nilachal Ashok, Adjoining Raj Bhawan, VIP Road, Puri-752 001. Phones: 06752-23639, 23676, 23651-53. Cable: NILASHOK. Telex: 335.

Toshali Sands Resort (4-star), Konark Marine Drive, Puri - 752 002. Phones: 23571, 23317, 22888, 23573. Cable: Yellow sands. Fax: 06752-23899.

Mayfair Beach Resort, Chakrtirtha Road. Phones: 24041-2; Fax: 24242.

Hans Coco Palms, Baliapanda. Phones: 22638, 23751; Fax: 23165.

Holiday Resort, Chakratirtha Road. Phones: 22440, 24370; Fax: 23968.

Sterling Holiday Resorts (IND) Ltd.,Plot No. 255, Sipasurubali Village, Puri-752 002. Phones: 248555, 57, 59, 60, 53. Fax: 06752-24852.

Puri Hotel, Sea Beach, Phones: 22114, 22744. Fax: 06752-22744.

South Eastern Railway Hotel, Chakratirtha Road, Phones: 22063, 23005.

Panthaniwas, Chakratirtha Road, Phones: 22740/22562.