The Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in India. It is part of the Char Dham Yatra, which includes Badrinath, Dwarka, Rameswaram, and Puri. The temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, and is world-famous for the annual Rath Yatra or Chariot Festival.
In this blog, you will find complete information about the Jagannath Temple, including history, darshan timings, daily rituals, entry rules, location, contact details, and more.
Jagannath Temple History
The Jagannath Temple was built in the 12th century by King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva of the Eastern Ganga dynasty. The temple follows the Kalinga architectural style and stands tall at about 65 meters. It is surrounded by a huge stone wall known as Meghanada Pacheri.
Unlike other temples, the deities here—Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra—are made of sacred Neem wood and are replaced every 12 to 19 years in a sacred ritual known as Nabakalebara.
Jagannath Temple Timings
Below are the general darshan and ritual timings at Jagannath Temple:
| Activity | Timings |
|---|---|
| Temple Opens | 5:00 AM |
| Morning Darshan | 5:30 AM to 12:00 PM |
| Bhog (Naivedya) | 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM |
| Afternoon Darshan | 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM |
| Evening Rituals and Darshan | 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM |
| Temple Closes | 9:00 PM |
Note: Timings may change during festivals and special occasions.
Daily Aarti and Rituals
The temple follows strict daily rituals that are performed with great devotion. Some of the major rituals include:
Mangala Aarti
Performed early in the morning before public darshan begins.
Sakala Dhupa (Morning Bhog)
The deities are offered breakfast and decorated for the day.
Madhyana Dhupa (Midday Bhog)
The main food offering of the day; darshan is restricted during this time.
Sandhya Dhupa (Evening Bhog and Aarti)
Evening rituals and offerings followed by aarti.
Badasinghara Besha
The deities are dressed for rest at night.
Entry Rules and Guidelines
- Only Hindus are allowed inside the temple premises.
- Visitors must wear modest and traditional clothing.
- Mobile phones, cameras, leather items, and footwear are not allowed inside.
- No entry fee is required to visit the temple.
- Expect long queues during peak seasons and festivals.
Jagannath Temple Location
Address:
Jagannath Temple Road, Grand Road (Bada Danda),
Puri, Odisha – 752001, India
Nearest Railway Station: Puri Railway Station (2 km)
Nearest Airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar (60 km)
Contact Information
- Temple Office (Puri): +91-6752-222002
- Tourism Information (Bhubaneswar): +91-674-2432177
- (Note: Response may be delayed during major festivals like Rath Yatra)
Images of Jagannath Temple
Why Visit Jagannath Temple
- One of the four Char Dham pilgrimage sites
- Home to the famous Rath Yatra, attended by millions every year
- Experience ancient rituals and centuries-old traditions
- Located near other attractions like Puri Beach, Konark Sun Temple, and Chilika Lake
Travel Tips for Visitors
- Plan your visit early in the morning for a peaceful darshan
- Avoid visiting during midday bhog hours (12:00 PM – 2:00 PM)
- Book hotels in advance, especially during Rath Yatra (usually in June or July)
- Follow local customs and guidelines strictly
- Try local sweets like Khaja and explore nearby craft villages
Plan Your Visit with Us
Ready to explore the spiritual beauty of Puri? Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or in a group, Weekend Yaari offers customizable Puri tour packages including Jagannath Temple darshan, Rath Yatra experience, local sightseeing, and more.
Book your Puri Jagannath Yatra now and enjoy a well-organized, comfortable, and memorable pilgrimage.
Call/WhatsApp: +91-8886424241
Let us take care of your journey—you focus on the blessings.
