Puri Shri Jagannatha Temple Tour
The iconic Puri Temple, a 12th-century temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath (an incarnation of Lord Vishnu), and it is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites for Hindus. Witness the elaborate rituals and offerings at the temple and soak in the spiritual atmosphere.
Includes:
- Transport based on the number of people
- Guide Fees where ever required
- Accommodations (Homestays/Hotels/Mathas)
When visiting the Jagannath Temple in Puri, there are several activities and rituals you can experience within the temple premises. Here are some things you can do during your Puri Jagannath Temple tour:
- Darshan of the Deities: The main highlight of the temple visit is getting a glimpse of the presiding deities: Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra. Join the queue and have a darshan (viewing) of the deities from a designated area.
- Offer Prayers: As you stand before the deities, you can offer your prayers and seek blessings. Many devotees offer flowers, fruits, coconuts, or other devotional items to the deities as a sign of reverence. It's a moment to connect with the divine and express your devotion.
- Observe Aarti: Witness the vibrant Aarti (ritual of waving lamps) performed by the priests. Aarti takes place multiple times a day and involves the rhythmic waving of lamps accompanied by chanting and singing. The devotional atmosphere during Aarti is truly enchanting.
- Partake in Mahaprasad: The Jagannath Temple is known for its Mahaprasad, considered sacred and blessed by the deities. After the daily rituals, a vegetarian meal known as Mahaprasad is served to devotees. Partake in this special offering and savor the traditional Odia cuisine.
- Explore the Temple Complex: Take your time to explore the sprawling temple complex, which includes various shrines, halls, and courtyards. Admire the architecture and intricate carvings on the temple walls. Don't miss the Nila Chakra (Blue Wheel) atop the main temple, visible from a distance.
- Visit the Kitchen: The temple kitchen, known as the Ananda Bazaar, is a fascinating place to visit. It is one of the largest kitchens in the world, where food is prepared for thousands of devotees every day. Observe the massive cooking process and the organized system in place.
- Attend Rituals and Festivals: If you visit during a festival or a special occasion, you can witness unique rituals and celebrations inside the temple. The annual Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival) in Puri is particularly famous, where the deities are taken out in a grand procession on elaborately decorated chariots.
- Seek Blessings from the Flag: Outside the temple, you will find a flag post known as the Aruna Stambha. It is believed that touching or seeking blessings from the flag brings good fortune. Devotees often make it a point to pay their respects to the flag before entering or leaving the temple premises.
Remember to adhere to the rules and regulations set by the temple authorities and maintain the sanctity of the premises during your visit. Photography and mobile phones are generally not allowed inside the temple. It's advisable to check with the temple administration for any specific guidelines or restrictions before your visit.