The Jagannath Temple of Puri is a sacred Vaishnava Temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath. Located at Puri in the state of Odisha, the temple holds immense religious significance to Hindu devotees and is an important pilgrimage as well. It’s one of the Char Dham pilgrimages and visited by millions of devotees of Lord Sri Krishna. The construction of the temple was started by King Chodagangadeva but it was completed by his grandson – Anangabhimadeva – in the 12th century.
The Jagannath Temple of Puri is world renowned for its annual RathYatra or chariot festival. During this mega religious event, a huge procession takes place where major deities of the temple are carried around the town on elaborately decorated vehicles. This RathYatra draws devotees from every part of the world and is celebrated amid great fanfare and intense religious fervor. During that time, the atmosphere at the temple site is beyond description.
The Jagannath Temple of Puri is although sacred to all Hindus but it holds special value for followers of the Vaishnava traditions. In fact, this temple has had association with some of well-known saints likeAdiShankaracharya ,Ramananda&Ramanuja. Two other major sites to visit around the temple include the EmarMathaand Govardhan Mutt. Visit this temple and experience the sense of piety that only the famous RathYatra can bring.