Puri Dham is famous primarily as one of the four holiest Char Dham Hindu pilgrimage sites, housing the 12th-century Jagannath Temple which is dedicated to Lord Krishna (Jagannath), along with his siblings, Balabhadra and Subhadra. It is renowned for the annual Ratha Yatra (Chariot Festival) and unique, non-stone wooden idols that are ceremoniously replaced every 12-19 years.
Key reasons for its fame include:
- Spiritual Significance: It is considered a crucial site for achieving moksha (salvation).
- Ratha Yatra: The world-famous Chariot Festival attracts millions of devotees who pull massive chariots of the deities.
- Unexplained Mysteries: The temple is known for phenomena such as the flag waving against the wind, no birds flying over the dome, and the daily preparation of Mahaprasad for thousands without waste.
- Cultural Heritage: It features stunning Kalinga architecture and is located near the long, golden Puri Beach.
- Prime Location: Besides the temple, the town is a popular tourist destination known for its coastline .