Top 10 Places to Visit in Puri: Beyond Jagannath Temple
Explore Puri beyond the famous Jagannath Temple. From Puri Beach and Raghurajpur Art Village to Chilika Lake and Satapada dolphins – discover the best attractions in and around Puri.
Beyond the Jagannath Temple
While most visitors come to Puri for the sacred Jagannath Temple, this coastal city and its surroundings offer a wealth of attractions. From pristine beaches and ancient temples to lake excursions and artisan villages, here are the top 10 places you must visit in and around Puri.
1. Jagannath Temple
The crown jewel of Puri and one of India's Char Dham pilgrimage sites. This 12th-century temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath is a marvel of Kalinga architecture. Read our complete Jagannath Temple guide for timings and tips.
2. Puri Beach (Golden Beach)
Stretching for several kilometers along the Bay of Bengal, Puri's Golden Beach is one of the finest in India. Known for its clean sands, beautiful sunrises, and the annual Puri Beach Festival. Best visited early morning or during sunset. Check our Puri beach hotels guide.
3. Konark Sun Temple (35 km)
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an architectural masterpiece shaped like a giant chariot. The drive along Marine Drive is equally stunning. Read our Puri to Konark road trip guide.
4. Chilika Lake & Satapada (50 km)
Asia's largest brackish water lagoon, home to the rare Irrawaddy dolphins. Take a boat ride from Satapada to spot dolphins and visit Nalabana Bird Sanctuary. Best from October to March. Book a Puri to Satapada taxi.
5. Raghurajpur Heritage Village (14 km)
A unique artisan village where every household practices traditional Pattachitra painting (palm-leaf art). Watch artists at work, buy authentic souvenirs, and learn about Odisha's rich artistic heritage. Entry is free, but tipping artists is appreciated.
6. Gundicha Temple (3 km)
Known as the "Garden House of Lord Jagannath," this is the destination of the famous Rath Yatra chariots. The temple is set in a beautiful garden and offers a peaceful atmosphere away from the crowds of the main temple.
7. Lokanath Temple (2 km)
One of Puri's most important Shiva temples, believed to be self-manifested (Swayambhu). The Shiva Lingam here is partially submerged in water. A must-visit for devotees, especially during Shivaratri.
8. Sudarshan Crafts Museum
Located near the main road, this museum showcases stunning stone carvings and sculptures by master craftsman Sudarshan Sahoo, a Padma Shri awardee. It gives visitors an appreciation of Odisha's stone carving traditions.
9. Pipili (Applique Village, 25 km)
On the Puri-Bhubaneswar highway, Pipili is famous for its vibrant applique work – colorful fabric crafts used for umbrellas, lampshades, bags, and wall hangings. A great place for shopping and photography.
10. Dhauli Peace Pagoda (45 km)
Located on the Puri-Bhubaneswar route, Dhauli is where Emperor Ashoka fought the famous Kalinga War and later embraced Buddhism. The white Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa) built by Japanese monks offers panoramic views and a powerful sense of history.
Plan Your Puri Sightseeing
Cover all these attractions with our Puri local sightseeing package or book a multi-day Odisha tour package. Our drivers know every hidden gem in and around Puri.
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