Puri

Puri is a city and a Municipality in the state of Odisha in eastern India. It is the district headquarters of Puri district and is situated on the Bay of Bengal. It is also known as Sri Jagannatha Dhama after the 12th-century Jagannatha Temple located in the city. It is one of the original Char Dham pilgrimage sites for Hindus.

Puri is known by several names since the ancient times, and was locally known as "Sri Kshetra" and Lord Jagannatha temple is known as "Badadeula". Even though princely states do not exist in India today, the heirs of the Gajapati Dynasty of Khurda still perform the ritual duties of the temple. The temple town has many Hindu religious mathas or monasteries.

The economy of Puri town is dependent on the religious importance of the Jagannatha Temple to the extent of nearly 80 percent. The 24 festivals, including 13 major ones, held every year in the temple complex contribute to the economy; Ratha Yatra and its related festivals are the most important which are attended by millions of people every year. Sand art and applique art are some of the important crafts of the city.

Jagannath Temple, Puri, The Pancha Tirtha of Puri, Gundicha Temple, Swargadwar, Sea Beach, District Museum, Raghunandana Library are some important landmarks of Puri.

Ratha Yatra, Chhera Pahara, Chandan Yatra, Snana Yatra, Anasara, Naba Kalebar, Suna Besha, Niladri Bije, Sahi Yatra, Samudra Arati are some important festivals of Puri. Puri is also famous for sand art and applique art.

It is situated 60 km (37 mi) south of the state capital of Bhubaneswar.