The Jagannath Temple is one of the most sacred Hindu temples in India, located in the coastal city of Puri. It is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu/Krishna, along with his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra. The temple is one of the four sacred Char Dham pilgrimage sites for Hindus.
Key Facts
Built mainly in the 12th century by King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva of the Eastern Ganga dynasty.
Famous for the annual Ratha Yatra (Chariot Festival), where giant chariots carry the deities through the streets of Puri.
The temple follows the traditional Kalinga style of architecture and rises about 214 feet high.
The idols are made of sacred neem wood and are ceremonially replaced during the Nabakalebara ritual every 12–19 years.
The temple kitchen is considered one of the world’s largest temple kitchens.
Unique Features & Beliefs
The deities have distinctive large round eyes and unfinished arms.
Many legends connect the temple to Lord Krishna’s heart or divine essence.
Non-Hindus are traditionally not allowed inside the main temple complex.
Main Festivals
Ratha Yatra
Snana Yatra
Chandan Yatra
Nabakalebara
Key Facts
Built mainly in the 12th century by King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva of the Eastern Ganga dynasty.
Famous for the annual Ratha Yatra (Chariot Festival), where giant chariots carry the deities through the streets of Puri.
The temple follows the traditional Kalinga style of architecture and rises about 214 feet high.
The idols are made of sacred neem wood and are ceremonially replaced during the Nabakalebara ritual every 12–19 years.
The temple kitchen is considered one of the world’s largest temple kitchens.
Unique Features & Beliefs
The deities have distinctive large round eyes and unfinished arms.
Many legends connect the temple to Lord Krishna’s heart or divine essence.
Non-Hindus are traditionally not allowed inside the main temple complex.
Main Festivals
Ratha Yatra
Snana Yatra
Chandan Yatra
Nabakalebara
