Jagannath Mandir Puri in Puri

Representing the eastern monastery of the extremely revered Hindu pilgrimage circuit called Char Dham Yatra, the Jagannath Temple in the coastal town of Puri is a world-renowned temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The presiding deities of the temple include Lord Jagannath (a form of Lord Vishnu) and his two siblings, Balabhadra and Subhadra. A huge complex, spreading over 37,000 sq. m. of area, the present-day temple was constructed in the 12th century over the ruins of the ancient original temple.

Apart from the main sanctum sanctorum, where the wooden idols of three deities rest on the throne of pearls called Ratnavedi, other important sections of the complex include frontal porch, audience hall, offerings hall and temple kitchen. The kitchen is known for its ability to cook hygienic food for hundreds of thousands of people at one time, making it one of the world’s largest community kitchens. Besides, there are more than 120 small and big shrine dedicated to various Hindu deities.

The temple is thronged by uncountable devotees from all over the world on the annual occasion of Rath Yatra (chariot festival) usually held in July. During the festival, the idols of three deities are placed on huge and exquisitely decorated chariots that are pulled by devotees using ropes. Attending the festival at least once in a lifetime is considered auspicious.  

The temple has four massive gateways known as Lion Gate, Elephant Gate, Horse Gate and Tiger Gate in four directions. The exquisite temple towers, pillared halls and other eye-pleasing architectural attractions make the temple popular among non-Hindus as well. The entry to the sanctum sanctorum is allowed only for the Hindus. However, non-Hindus and foreigners should visit the complex to relish the imposing architecture and divine atmosphere.