The Shri Mandir Puri, also known as the Jagannath Temple, is one of India’s most revered Hindu temples, dedicated to Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra. Located in Puri, Odisha, this 12th-century temple is an architectural masterpiece built in the Kalinga style. Towering at 214 feet, the temple is famous for its mysterious rituals, including a flag that always flutters against the wind and a shadowless structure. It is home to the world’s largest temple kitchen, serving the divine Mahaprasad to thousands of devotees daily. The temple’s four grand gates – Singhadwara, Ashwadwara, Vyaghra Dwara, and Hastidwara – welcome millions of visitors each year, especially during the grand Rath Yatra Festival, where the deities embark on their majestic chariot procession.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Location | Puri, Odisha, India |
Deity Worshipped | Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, Goddess Subhadra |
Temple Height | 214 feet (65 meters) |
Temple Length | 420 feet (128 meters) |
Temple Width | 315 feet (96 meters) |
Architecture | Kalinga style of architecture |
Established By | King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva (12th century) |
Main Festival | Rath Yatra Festival (Chariot Festival) |
Number of Gates | 4 (Singhadwara, Ashwadwara, Vyaghra Dwara, Hastidwara) |
Main Entrance | Singhadwara (Lion Gate) – Eastern side |
Other Gates | – Ashwadwara (Horse Gate) – Southern side |
– Vyaghra Dwara (Tiger Gate) – Western side | |
– Hastidwara (Elephant Gate) – Northern side | |
Flag Changing Ritual | Performed daily; flag defies wind direction |
Unique Feature | The temple shadow is not visible at any time of the day |
Kitchen Capacity | World’s largest temple kitchen, feeds 100,000+ daily |
Non-Hindu Entry | Not allowed inside the temple premises |
Prasad Name | Mahaprasad (Chhappan Bhog – 56 varieties of food) |
The Jagannath Temple is an architectural marvel and holds deep spiritual significance for devotees worldwide.
Shri Mandir Puri, also known as Jagannath Temple Puri, is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India. This beautiful temple is in the holy city of Puri, Odisha.
They dedicated it to Lord Jagannath, who is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It attracts millions of devotees from around the world each year, offering a unique spiritual experience. The temple’s impressive design and cultural importance make it a symbol of devotion. Festivals like Rath Yatra attract many pilgrims.
Historical Significance of Shri Mandir Puri
The history of Shri Mandir Puri dates back to ancient times. Legends say that King Indradyumna built the first temple of Lord Jagannath in the 12th century. Many believe that King Indradyumna saw a vision of the Lord and decided to construct the temple at the site.
Craftsmen make the idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra from sacred neem wood. Every 12 to 19 years, someone creates a new set of idols. People call this process Nabakalebara.
The idols’ Puri Jagannath Temple Idols Story adds to the mysticism and allure of this sacred site. They are thought to represent the endless cycle of life, death, and rebirth. This idea is important in Hindu philosophy.
Architectural Grandeur
Shri Mandir Puri is a testament to the Kalinga style of architecture. Standing at an impressive height of 214 feet, the Jagannath Temple Puri is a majestic sight to behold. The temple complex comprises multiple structures, including smaller shrines and the main temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath.
One of the most interesting parts of the temple is its Shree Mandir Puri 4 Dwara, or four gates. These gates are important entry points for devotees. These gates—Singhadwara, Ashwadwara, Vyaghradwara, and Hastidwara—each represent different divine qualities such as strength, courage, and wisdom. These gates also signify the spiritual journey of the devotee from the physical to the divine.
Shri Mandir Puri 4 Dwara
The Shree Mandir Puri 4 Dwara name refers to the four gates that surround the temple complex. Each gate holds unique symbolic and spiritual significance, guiding devotees toward spiritual enlightenment.
- Singhadwara (Lion Gate): This is the main entrance, where devotees first encounter the majestic stone lion statues.
- Ashwadwara (Horse Gate): Guarded by stone horses, this gate is closely linked to the Rath Yatra festival.
- Vyaghradwara (Tiger Gate): Known for its strong symbolism of protection and valor.
- Hastidwara (Elephant Gate): Symbolizing wisdom and prosperity, it is guarded by two stone elephants.
These gates are more than just structural features—they guide pilgrims toward a deeper understanding of divine qualities.
Why Shri Mandir Puri is Famous
Shree Mandir Puri is well-known for the Rath Yatra. This grand procession happens every year in July or August, based on the lunar calendar. The deities of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are taken out in beautifully decorated chariots. This event attracts millions of devotees from around the world. The Jagannath Puri VIP Darshan Online Booking service helps visitors avoid long lines during busy festival times. This way, they can enjoy a smooth darshan experience.
The temple’s daily offerings, including the Mahaprasad, are legendary. Prepared in the world’s largest kitchen, the Mahaprasad comprises 56 different dishes that are served to devotees and pilgrims visiting the temple. The Ananda Bazar is where these sacred offerings are sold and distributed.
The temple’s role in promoting spiritual well-being is further evidenced by its inclusion in the Char Dham Yatra, making it a crucial part of a Hindu’s pilgrimage journey.
Key Features of Shri Mandir Puri
- Opening Time: The Shree Mandir Puri opening time is generally 5:00 AM daily. The temple remains open until 11:30 PM.
- Location: Situated in the heart of Puri, the temple is just 2 km from the Puri Railway Station, making it easily accessible for devotees. The distance from Bhubaneswar is also about 60 km, and Biju Patnaik International Airport is approximately 70 km away.
- Jagannath Puri Temple Location: The temple is located on the eastern coast of India, along the Bay of Bengal, making it a scenic and serene place for spiritual reflection.
- Jagannath Temple Puri Photos: High-quality photos of the temple are available for download online and make for wonderful souvenirs or wallpapers.
- Jagannath Puri Story: The story of Lord Jagannath’s idol and the construction of the temple is central to the faith of millions.
- Puri Jagannath Temple Height in Feet: The main temple stands at an impressive height of 214 feet, making it one of the tallest structures in the region.
- Jagannath Temple Puri Timings Today: These timings are subject to change on festivals and special occasions. Check the Puri Jagannath Official Website for accurate and up-to-date timings.
- Booking Guidance for VIP Darshan: For those seeking a more serene experience, Jagannath Puri VIP Darshan Online Booking can be done via the temple’s official website. This service helps manage the crowds, particularly during peak pilgrimage periods.
Shri Mandir Jagannath Temple Mystery, Puri
Shri Mandir Jagannath Temple in Puri is filled with unexplained mysteries. Here are some fascinating unknown facts:
- The Flag That Defies Science – The temple flag always flutters in the opposite direction of the wind.
- No Shadow of the Temple – Despite its massive size, the temple casts no shadow at any time of the day.
- The Mahaprasad Cooking Secret – Seven earthen pots are stacked for cooking, but the topmost pot gets cooked first.
- The Mystery of the Sudarshan Chakra – The chakra on top of the temple always appears to face you, no matter where you stand.
- The Soundless Sea – Inside the temple, you cannot hear the ocean waves, but once you step outside, the sound returns.
- Reverse Airflow at the Main Dome – The wind at the temple’s dome flows against natural gravity.
- The Everlasting Rath Yatra – The Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival) has never been stopped, even during wars or pandemics.
- The Wooden Idols That Change Themselves – Every 12 to 19 years, the deities’ wooden idols are replaced in a secret ritual called Nabakalebara, and the old idols decay on their own.
- No Birds or Planes Fly Over the Temple – Unlike other massive structures, no birds or planes fly over the temple.
- The Hidden Entrance of the Gods – A secret underground chamber inside the temple is believed to hold the past deities’ souls, and only selected priests can enter.
These unexplained mysteries make the Jagannath Temple in Puri a divine wonder beyond human understanding.
Shri Mandir Rath Yatra Festival: The Grand Chariot Festival of Lord Jagannath

The Rath Yatra festival is one of India’s most sacred and vibrant celebrations. It is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, along with his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra. The festival takes place in Puri, Odisha, and is most famously associated with the Jagannath Temple.
Where is the Rath Yatra Festival Celebrated?
The Rath Yatra festival is celebrated every year in Puri, Odisha, to worship Lord Jagannath. Devotees pull three massive wooden chariots carrying Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple.
Why We Celebrate the Rath Yatra Festival?
The Rath Yatra festival marks the divine journey of Lord Jagannath and his siblings from their main temple to their aunt’s house at Gundicha Temple. The deities stay there for nine days before returning in the Bahuda Yatra. This journey symbolizes Lord Jagannath’s love and compassion for his devotees.
Ratha Yatra Festival: The Procession of Chariots

The Ratha Yatra festival of chariots is a grand event where three massive wooden chariots serve as the Ratha Yatra festival vehicle for Lord Jagannath 3 Rath name:
- Nandighosa (Lord Jagannath’s chariot – 45 feet high)
- Taladhwaja (Lord Balabhadra’s chariot – 44 feet high)
- Darpadalana (Goddess Subhadra’s chariot – 43 feet high)
Devotees pull these chariots through the streets of Puri with divine chants and music.
Ratha Yatra Festival Information & Significance

- The Rath Yatra festival in Hindi is called “रथ यात्रा महोत्सव” and is one of India’s biggest religious gatherings.
- The festival attracts millions of devotees and tourists, capturing stunning Rath Yatra festival pictures of the grand chariot procession.
- The famous Rath Yatra festival of Odisha is held in the Jagannath Temple, Puri.
- Where is the Rath Yatra festival held? – Puri, Odisha, but similar processions occur in other cities worldwide.
- The Rath Yatra festival is most famously associated with which temple? – Jagannath Temple, Puri.
Ratha Yatra Festival Beyond Odisha
Although the Ratha Yatra festival is celebrated in Odisha, similar celebrations occur in other states and countries. Cities like Ahmedabad, Kolkata, and even international locations like London and New York observe the Ratha Yatra festival of chariots.
The Rath Yatra festival is more than a religious event; it is a spiritual experience symbolizing unity, devotion, and divine love.
Nearby Attractions
Puri is home to several other fascinating places that complement your visit to Shree Mandir Puri:
- Puri Beach: A serene and peaceful destination, perfect for relaxation.
- Konark Sun Temple: Located around 35 km from Puri, this UNESCO World Heritage site is an architectural marvel.
- Chilika Lake: Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, famous for its migratory bird population.
Accommodation Near Shree Mandir Puri
Numerous accommodation options near the temple exist for devotees and visitors.
- Hotel Shree Mandir Puri: Located near the temple, this hotel offers budget-friendly options for a comfortable stay.
- Shri Mandir Guest House Puri: A great place for those looking for simple and convenient lodging near the temple.
- Luxury Resorts: For those seeking a luxurious stay, Puri has several high-end hotels and resorts offering stunning views and premium amenities.
These hotels cater to all kinds of visitors, ensuring a pleasant stay.
Shree Mandir Parikrama Project
The Puri Shri Mandir Parikrama project is an initiative aimed at improving the infrastructure around the temple to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims. The project, with an estimated budget of 800 crore, focuses on creating a green buffer zone to maintain the sanctity of the temple and provide a cleaner environment for devotees.
The land acquisition for this project has been a major step forward, with the temple area and surrounding spaces being upgraded to enhance the overall pilgrimage experience.
Educational and Spiritual Hubs
- Shri Mandir College of Nursing Puri: A prominent healthcare education institution located near the temple.
- Shri Swaminarayan Mukhya Mandir Puri: A spiritual center offering teachings on devotion and religious practices.
These institutions contribute to the educational and spiritual landscape of Puri.
Interesting Facts
- Shri Mandir Puri Wallpaper: Stunning wallpapers featuring the temple’s grandeur are widely available, allowing devotees to carry a piece of the temple with them.
- Shri Chhoto Jagannath Mandir Puri Odisha: A smaller replica of the Jagannath Temple located in the vicinity, offering a quieter space for worship.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re a devotee seeking spiritual peace or a visitor looking to explore the rich cultural heritage of Puri, Shree Mandir Puri offers a profound experience. From the iconic Jagannath Temple Puri to the legendary Rath Yatra procession and the historical temples surrounding it, Puri is a must-visit destination for all who seek enlightenment and connection with the divine.
With the involvement of Ex-Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, several development projects are underway to improve the temple’s facilities. These projecto enhance the experience for devotees and maintain the sanctity of the temple.