Are you craving a mini-vacation that combines relaxation with exploration? Look no further than Puri – a hidden gem on India’s eastern coast. You can visit almost 8 places in Puri in 2 days.
This quaint town is not only famous for its sun-kissed beaches but also for its historical significance and religious fervor. If you have just 48 hours to spare, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered.
This article will show you the best places to visit in Puri that will leave you amazed and refreshed. Get ready, and let’s go on a thrilling journey through the beautiful streets of this coastal paradise.
Places To Visit In Puri In 2 Days
DAY 1
1. Chilika Lake & Sanctuary
Chilika Lake is India’s largest coastal lagoon and the world’s second-largest saltwater lagoon.
It has small islands and is an essential ecosystem with many fish. It became an international wetland in 1981.
The lake is a significant place for birds to rest during the winter and has many different animals. People like to visit because of the beautiful sunrises and sunsets, and the Kalijai Temple nearby is a popular tourist spot.
Chilika Lake is a popular eco-tourism destination with diverse flora and fauna. It has designated as a Ramsar site due to its rare and endangered species.
Boating is a popular activity, and the best time to visit is from November to February when migratory birds are present.
Timings: 6 AM to 7 PM
Boat: Rs. 2500 to Rs. 3000 for 1. 30 Hr trip
2. Raghurajpur Craft Village – Places To Visit In Puri In 2 Days
Raghurajpur is a heritage crafts village in Odisha known for Pattachitra paintings and Gotipua dance. It was recognized as a heritage craft village in 2000.
The village is famous for its master painters and is the birthplace of Kelucharan Mohapatra. Raghurajpur village is famous for its murals and traditional crafts, including Tussar paintings and wood carvings.
It is the only place where traditional decorations used during a festival. The village also hosts the annual Basant Utsav, attracting many tourists.
3. Pipili
Pipili is a town in Odisha known for its traditional applique work and colorful fabrics. This text explains the craft of applique patchwork, which involves stitching small colored pieces onto a larger cloth.
The cloth used is typically cotton with various color combinations. Everyday appliqué patchwork items include garden umbrellas, wallets, wall hangings, lampshades, pouches, and bags.
Some shops sell textiles with ikat and bomkai work, filigree silver jewelry, bidriware, and various gifting items.
DAY 2
1. Sri Jagannath Temple – Places To Visit In Puri In 2 Days
The Jagannath Temple in Puri is a revered Hindu pilgrimage site in the Char Dham Yatra. It is dedicated to Lord Jagannath and was built by Anantavarman Chodaganga.
King Ananga Bhima Deva II also contributed to the temple’s construction. The Jagannath Temple is a large Kalinga-style temple with intricate carvings and a fortified wall.
It has four chambers and houses wooden statues of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra. These statues are replaced every 12 years and are ornamented for different occasions and seasons.
Jagannath Temple has four entrance gates and the world’s largest kitchen. Lakshmi and Vimala Temples are inside.
Twenty-four festivals are celebrated, including the Rath Yatra, where deities are taken on chariots to Gundicha Temple.
Timings: 5 AM – 1 PM & 6 PM – 12 AM
Entry Fee: Free
2. Narendra Tank / Narendra Pokhari
Narendra Tank, located near Jagannath Temple in Puri, is a sizeable holy tank with temples and ghats. It built in the 15th century by Narendra Dev.
The tank has an island with a small temple and a bridge. It is considered holy and has 16 ghats for pilgrims to bathe.
The main ghat has steps made of Khondalite. Chandana Pushkarini is a holy tank where the annual Chandana Yatra of Lord Jagannath takes place.
During this festival, deities are bathed in the sacred water of the tank after being applied with chandana paste. The ritual occurs in the Baishaki month of the Hindu calendar.
Timings: 6 AM to 9 PM
Entry Fee: Free
3. Gundicha Temple – Places To Visit In Puri In 2 Days
The Gundicha Temple is a well-known Hindu temple near Puri Junction. People visit it during the Ratha Yatra.
Gundicha Maharani built this temple, also called Lord Jagannath’s aunt’s house. It is located in a garden.
Gundicha Temple is a famous temple with exciting legends. This is Gundicha’s house, where Lord Krishna’s aunt lived.
The temple has beautiful Kalinga-style architecture with intricate stone carvings. A wall surrounds it and has different sections.
The temple is under the care of the Jagannath Temple Administration. The Ratha Yatra is a nine-day journey where Lord Jagannatha, Lord Baladeva, and Subhadra Devi leave the Jagannath Mandira.
They travel to Gundicha temple, spend seven days there, and then return home. This is known as Gundicha Yatra or Nava Dina Yatra.
It is considered highly auspicious to see the deities during this time, called Adapa Darshana. The journey ends at a temple surrounded by beautiful gardens and coconut trees.
Timings: 6 AM – 3 PM & 4 PM – 10 PM
Entry Fee: Rs.5 per person
4. Sudarshan Craft Museum – Places To Visit In Puri In 2 Days
The Sudarshan Craft Museum in Puri is a favorite place for people who love art. It was create by Sudarshan Sahoo in 1977.
The museum displays many different types of art, such as carvings made from wood, stone, and fiberglass, as well as handicrafts and paintings.
It also features a Japanese-style Buddhist temple, a library, and a workshop. The museum offers visitors a unique and educational experience with its rare and culturally significant art pieces.
It also sells metal figurines and stone carvings and provides a platform for emerging artists to showcase their talent.
Timings: 8 AM – 12 PM & 2 PM – 8 PM, Closed on Saturdays & Sundays
Entry Fee: Rs. 5 for Indians & Rs. 50 for Foreigners
5. Puri Beach – Places To Visit In Puri In 2 Days
Puri Beach is a clean and peaceful beach known for its white sand and clear waters. It is visited by pilgrims and tourists who enjoy strolling and shopping for souvenirs.
Puri Beach is famous for sand sculptures by Sudarshan Patnaik and hosts the annual Puri Beach Festival. Visitors can enjoy sunrises and sunsets but should be cautious of strong currents.
The Chakra Tirtha side is a tranquil spot for a stroll.
Timings: 24 hours
FAQs
Q1: Is Puri Beach safe for swimming?
Yes, Puri Beach is generally safe for swimming, but follow local guidelines and be cautious of strong currents.
Q2: Can I visit the Jagannath Temple during festivals?
You can visit the Jagannath Temple during festivals, but expect larger crowds and longer waiting times.
Q3: How can I reach Chilika Lake from Puri?
You can hire a cab or join a guided tour to reach Chilika Lake from Puri. It’s about a 2-hour drive.
Q4: Are there any water sports activities in Puri?
Yes, you can enjoy jet skiing and parasailing at Puri Beach.
Q5: What is the best time to visit Puri?
The best time to visit Puri is from October to February, when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities.
Final Thoughts
Puri offers many attractions that you can explore in just two days. Puri is a lovely coastal town with attractions like the Jagannath Temple and Puri Beach.
The lively markets and busy streets add to its charm, giving visitors a taste of local life. Puri has everything whether you love history or nature or want to relax.
Pack your bags and embark on a two-day journey to explore Puri’s enchanting destinations. Take advantage of this fantastic experience!
Nayana is passionate about discovering the most magnificent places to visit in India! She also loves to uncover the most incredible sights and capture her experiences in her writing through TouristPanda.com.