Puri is home to one of the most sacred pilgrims of Hindus in the country and is known as “Jagannath” owing to the famous “Jagannath temple”. Situated alongside the coast of Bay of Bengal in the state of Orissa, the holy script of Skanda Purana describes Puri as the renowned resting place of Lord Vishnu. It is a city popular for its art and architecture with silver work on historical and cultural edifices dating from the 3rd century B.C to 17th Century A.D.

Planning to visit the best places in Puri? Here is our handpicked list of the best things to do: 

1.    Adore the Wonderful Ancient Temples of Bhubaneshwar

Home to some of the most famous temples in Odisha Bhubaneshwar is dubbed as the ‘city of temples’, with a history that is 2000 years old. The capital city of Orissa, Bhubaneshwar in addition to the modern city pleasures has more than 700 religious, spiritual and historical sites. Named after Lord Shiva, the city temples are dedicated to the various forms of the three-eyed lord. Lingaraj, Mukteswar, and Brahmeshwar being the major trio.

2.    Roam around the Sea Bed at Chandipur Beach

Chandipur Beach is one of the renowned tourist places in Orissa. Set on the coast of Bay of Bengal, the beach is not just beautiful but fascinating. During the ebb tide, the sea recedes as far as 5 Km away from the beach. Enjoy the memorable sunset views. You can also enjoy a family picnic or a romantic getaway. 
As you roam around towards the Mirzapur, you can see horseshoe crab. There is a fishing market nearby which is worth visiting. Chandipur is around 200 Km from Bhubaneswar. You can enjoy a walk, a little further into the seabed as the waves are normally gentle. One of the best things to do in Chandipur Beach is to go on a long walk along the waves and collect shells to take at your house as well. It is one of the most cherished memories you can bring back from your Orissa holidays.

3.    Explore the Rural Handicrafts Villages at Raghurajpur

It is placed on the southern bank of Bhargava River, Raghurajpur is a very beautiful village dedicated to preserving the traditional craft running in their family for generations. The handicraft villages at Raghurajpur displays the fine art culture of Orissa called Pattachitra. An assortment of craft items is on display outside the households. Here you can notice the finesse of Sodhai work, Palm Lead Inscriptions, Papier Mache, Filigree, wood & stone carvings, terracotta, and applique works. Traditional masks and wooden toys are famous attractions as well. Moreover, you can also explore the amazing mural paintings mainly depicting events of Ramayana and Mahabharata in the village environs.

4.    Enjoy the amazing Sunrise and Sunset in Puri Beach

One of the most stunning places to visit in Puri is its Beaches. The fine white sand and the challenging waves are the charms of the beaches. These beaches offer memorable sunrise and sunset views. Family vacationers and devotees of Lord Jagannath visit this beach each year in huge numbers. Each year, the Puri Beach festival is organized from November, welcoming the beach lovers from all over the world. Do not miss viewing the art of sand sculptures by world-renowned artist Sudarshan Patnaik at the Puri Beach. You can either go for a leisure walk or enjoy the serene environments. In case, you wish to relax, head towards the beach’s eastern end.

5.    Pipli

Pipli is a village near Puri that is extremely renowned for the amazing colorful applique work. If you are a shopaholic, Pipli is the right place to visit in Puri for the best shopping experience. Here you can purchase the exquisite local art and craft items and even enjoy its beauty in terms of local flowers, animals, and mesmerizing views. One of the most popular crafts purchased by travelers are items of Oriya craft. The craftsmen of Pipli make canopies for the annual Jagannath Yatra. A large number of tourists visit this place to buy these stunning crafts.

6.    Rendezvous with the Region’s wildlife at Nandankanan Zoological Park

The honor of India’s first zoo that becomes a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums goes to the Nandankanan Zoological Park. Stretched over 400 hectares, it is one of the best and most beautiful places to visit in Puri. This zoo is located in Bhubneshwar and homes 67 species of mammals, 18 species of reptiles, and 81 avifauna species including the rare white tigers. 

If you are planning a trip to Puri, never miss out to visit the Nandankanan Zoological Park with your family and children. For affordable and custom Puri packages get in touch with Travel Experts at PML Holidays and they would cater to you the best of Puri in a travel package.