|
|
RESORT
IN PURI
Code No- AT-OS03
 |
 |
|
The holy city of Puri, 60 km
from Bhubaneswar, is one of the four holiest points of pilgrimage for
Hindus. The reigning deity of the city, Lord Jagannath, whose temple was
built way back in the 12th century, is not only of great religious
significance to the people of Orissa but is revered by thousands of
pilgrims who seek His blessings from every part of the country. This
intense veneration of Jagannath, or the Lord of the Universe, reaches its
zenith during the annual rites of the Rath Yatra in the months of June
July, when the images of Lord Jagannath, His sister Subhadra and brother
Balbhadra are transported through the Grand Road (Bada Danda) of Puri in
traditionally decorated massive chariots that are dragged by thousands of
devotees to the Gundicha Ghar where they sojourn for a week. The process
is repeated when they are returned amidst intense religious fervor to the
temple.
|
Though the temple is closed to non-Hindus, the
activities of the Jagannath Temple are so immense that they create enough colour
and interest for tourists to participate in the bazar element of the proceedings
outside the temple precincts. The other important feature of the town is its
beautiful beach which, for centuries, has offered pleasure to both pilgrims and
swimmers. This picturesque beach is one of the most delightful white beaches in
the country and is becoming a pleasure haunt for tourists from all over the
globe. |
|
