Culture & Lifestyle • Religion

Jagannath Puri

Jagannath Puri is the temple town of Puri, Odisha, best known for the Shree Jagannath Temple, a major Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Jagannath, a form of Vishnu.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Jagannath Puri is the temple town of Puri, Odisha, best known for the Shree Jagannath Temple, a major Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Jagannath, a form of Vishnu. The site is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage destinations and is closely associated with the annual Rath Yatra festival. The temple, built in the 12th century, is a prime example of Kalinga architecture.

Overview

Jagannath Puri refers to the sacred temple town of Puri, where the Shree Jagannath Temple stands. In common usage, it names the religious centre rather than a separate administrative place.

Shree Jagannath Temple

The temple is dedicated to Jagannath, understood as a form of Vishnu or Krishna, and is one of the oldest Hindu temples still in active use. It is a major example of Kalinga architecture and a central site of worship in Odisha. Sources place the temple’s main structure in the 12th century, with construction linked to the Eastern Ganga dynasty and King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva.

Pilgrimage and festivals

Puri is counted among the Char Dham pilgrimage sites and draws pilgrims throughout the year. Its best-known public festival is Rath Yatra, during which the deities are taken out in ceremonial chariots.

Cultural significance

Jagannath Puri has a strong identity in Odisha’s religious and cultural life. The temple and its rituals have shaped the town’s economy, festival calendar, and public image.

Key facts

Puri is an ancient coastal town on India’s eastern shore in Odisha.
The Shree Jagannath Temple is a major Hindu temple dedicated to Jagannath, a form of Vishnu.
The temple is one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage sites.
The temple dates to the 12th century and is built in Kalinga architecture.
The annual Rath Yatra festival is a major event in Puri.

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Canadian context

Canadian Hindu communities and travellers often regard Jagannath Puri as an important pilgrimage destination in India, especially for Vaishnava devotion and Rath Yatra observances.

Frequently asked questions

What is Jagannath Puri?

Jagannath Puri is the temple town of Puri, Odisha, known for the Shree Jagannath Temple and its importance in Hindu pilgrimage.

What deity is worshipped there?

The main deity is Jagannath, a form of Vishnu, worshipped with the deities Balabhadra and Subhadra.

Is Jagannath Puri one of the Char Dham sites?

Yes. Puri is traditionally counted among Hinduism’s four Char Dham pilgrimage sites.

When was the temple built?

Sources place the present temple structure in the 12th century, with patronage associated with the Eastern Ganga dynasty.

What is Rath Yatra?

Rath Yatra is the major annual chariot festival of Jagannath Puri, in which the deities are ceremonially taken through the streets of Puri.

References

Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jagannath_Temple,_Puri
Supports: Temple dedication to Jagannath and location in Puri, Odisha.
Indian Culture — https://www.indianculture.gov.in/stories/jagannath-temple-puri
Supports: Temple’s significance, age, and continued use.
Government of Odisha — https://puri.odisha.gov.in/en/tourism/tourist-places/shree-jagannath-temple
Supports: Char Dham status, deities worshipped, 12th-century construction, and festivals.
Incredible India — https://www.incredibleindia.gov.in/en/odisha/puri/sri-jagannath-temple
Supports: Puri as sacred town, 12th-century temple, pilgrimage importance, and opening hours.