Shri Jagannath Puri Temple | Lotus Eco Beach Resort Konark

Shri Jagannath Puri Temple

The historic city of Puri, in the state of Odisha, is home to Shri Jagannath Temple, one of the four dhams (pilgrimage sites) of India. This ancient temple, which is dedicated to the Hindu deity, Lord Jagannath—the Lord of the Universe and a manifestation of Lord Vishnu—receives millions of pilgrims every year. During the famous Rath Yatra celebration, this number experiences a significant surge.

Along with the main temple, which has so many fascinating stories related to it, this shrine, which is built in the Kalinga architectural style, also has several smaller temples. Lord Jagannath, his brother Lord Balabhadra, and his sister Goddess Subhadhra are the main deities in this revered shrine. The temple's architecture is undoubtedly magnificent, and its ancient gates, which provide a view inside the interior, are equally impressive.
 

A black-and-white image of historical temple architecture


Puri Jagannath Temple History

The history of the Jagannath Temple, also known as Jagannath Temple Puri, is as fascinating as the temple itself. According to legend, the temple was built by Lord Vishnu himself, in the form of King Indradyumna. The king dreamed of a wooden form of Lord Jagannath floating in the sea, and he immediately ordered the construction of the temple to house the deity. It took nearly two centuries to finish the construction of the temple. The Jagannath temple is also one of the four sacred pilgrimage sites, known as the Chaar Dhaams, that hold great significance for Hindus. These four shrines are situated in the four corners of India. Among them, the Jagannath Puri Temple, located in Puri, is the starting point for the Chaar-Dhaam yatra. According to tradition, pilgrims embark on this spiritual journey from Jagannath Puri and then proceed in a clockwise direction, visiting Rameshwaram, Dwarika, and Badrinath in that order.

Stone carvings on the wall

Importance and Significance of Shri Jagannath Temple

The Shri Jagannath Puri Temple holds immense significance beyond religion, serving as a cultural hub where ancient traditions, rituals, and historical practices are preserved. It showcases Odisha's unique architectural style with towering spires, intricate carvings, and sculptures, reflecting the region's rich heritage. Pilgrims from all walks of life seek the blessings of Lord Jagannath, believing that it brings peace, prosperity, and spiritual enlightenment. The temple complex includes shrines, gardens, and sacred tanks, creating a serene atmosphere for devotion. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its intricate architecture and many mysteries. The mysteries and the story of Jagannath Puri have fascinated people for centuries.
 

Some of the mysteries of the temple include:

Shadowless Temple
The Jagannath Temple is renowned for its unique architectural design, which prevents the temple from casting any shadow on the ground throughout the day.

Mysterious Flag
The temple features a flag on top that always flaps in the opposite direction of the wind, defying conventional explanations and creating a fascinating mystery.

All-Seeing Chakra
At the pinnacle of the Jagannath temple Puri, there is a 20-foot-high chakra (wheel) that is positioned in a way to be visible from any part of the city. It gives the impression that the chakra is facing you, regardless of your location within the city.

Enigmatic Sound at the Entrance
Upon entering the temple through the 'Singha dwaar' (Lion's Gate), visitors can hear the sound of waves, creating a serene and mystical atmosphere. However, when one turns and walks in the same direction after passing the gate, the sound diminishes and is not audible within the temple premises.

Abundant Prasadam
Despite the varying number of devotees visiting the temple daily (ranging from 2,000 to 20,000), the same quantity of prasadam (holy food) is cooked each day. Remarkably, there has never been a single day when the prasadam has been wasted or insufficient, showcasing a divine blessing.

Unique Cooking Process
The prasadam is cooked in seven pots stacked on top of each other. Interestingly, the top pot cooks first, and then the ones below it, which is a fascinating way of cooking.


The Best Time to Visit

To experience the true essence of the Jagannath Temple Puri, plan your visit during the Rath Yatra. This annual festival usually falls in June or July and attracts millions of devotees from all corners of the world. Witnessing the grandeur of the chariot procession and participating in the festivities during this time is an unparalleled experience.
However, if you prefer a quieter visit, it is advisable to plan your trip during the off-peak season, which typically spans from September to February. The weather remains pleasant, and you can explore the temple and its surroundings at your own pace.
 

Rath yatra with a large group of people standing in front of a crowd

If you are searching for accommodation near Shri Jagannath Temple, Lotus Eco BeachResort in Konark is an excellent choice. The resort is conveniently located near the temple, just a 30-minute drive away. With its spacious and charming villas and cottages, along with stunning views of the Bay of Bengal, our resort offers the perfect retreat for those seeking relaxation, serenity, and luxury.