Puri Sightseeing with Vacation Adda

Puri in Odisha is undoubtedly an essential pilgrimage site for Hindus, thanks to the revered Jagannath Temple that forms a crucial part of Char Dham in India. The beach city, situated on the Bay of Bengal coast, is a favourite among West Bengal residents for short trips. Although Puri gained fame among hippies in the 1970s after the legalisation of Bhang, it still remains a popular destination for backpackers, even though the availability of the substance is now restricted. With a multitude of hotels and homestays available, local tourists prefer to stay near the New Marine Drive while backpackers prefer to stay near Chakra Tirtha.

Puri Beach: Puri Beach is a lovely spot where the sun shines on the clear waters of the Bay of Bengal. It's only 35 kilometers from the Sun Temple, making it perfect for folks who want some peaceful time away from the crowd.

Markandeswara Temple: Built around the 13th century, the Markandeswara Temple is famous for its beautiful architecture. At the entrance, you'll see a statue of Nataraja with ten arms, a sight to behold.

Narendra Tank: Narendra Tank is one of the biggest lakes in Odisha, thought to be made in the 15th century. It's considered holy and has many temples nearby. There's even a small island in the middle with a temple called Chandana Mandapa.

Sudarshan Crafts Museum: The Sudarshan Crafts Museum was made by Sri Sudarshan Sahoo to show how art has changed over time. You can see traditional sculptures and new art here. Artists can also work here and display their art in the showroom.

Pipili: Pipili is a small town in Puri known for its handmade crafts. People here make all kinds of things like statues of gods, animals, and flowers, as well as pillow covers, sheets, handbags, and purses. The town also has many food stalls to grab a bite to eat while shopping.

Sakshi Gopal Temple: Sakshi Gopal Temple is a special place where people believe Lord Vishnu once visited a wedding. Another story says it's one of 16 temples built for Lord Krishna's grandson. Either way, it's an important spot for those entering Puri.

Chilika Lake: Chilika Lake, 50 kilometers from Puri, is a huge saltwater lake. It's famous for its beauty and birds. During the Chilika Bird Festival, you can see many different kinds of birds. There's also a pretty island in the lake with lots of trees.