Divine Circuits of Sankha Kshetra
A journey through the 125 sacred places/deities of Puri – the Eternal Abode of Lord Jagannatha
- Shree Balabhadra
- Shree Subhadra
- Shree Jagannatha
- Shree Sudarshana
- Madhava
- Bhudevi
- Shreedevi
- Shreemandira
- Shreekshetreeswari
- Bimala
- Shree Mahalaxmi
- Uttara Durga
- Bata Mangala
- Garuda Stambha
- Bhoga Mandapa
- Kalapabata
- Rohini Kunda
- Bata Ganesha
- Uchhista Ganapati
- Saraswati
- Nabagraha
- Konarka Surya Deva
- Padapadma
- Jajna Bata
- Satyanarayana
- Sakshi Gopinatha
- Jaya Vijaya
- Agneeswara
- Indrani (Bajreswari)
- Kshetrapala
- Kuttama Chandi
- Mukteswara
- Ghorakali
- Batamarkandeswara
- Katyayani Budhima
- Gopeswara
- Bedha Kali
- Pataleswara
- Bhubaneswari
- Baikuntheswara
- Jogeswara
- Aishanyeswara
- Shitala
- Bhetamandapa
- Pakashala
- Dakshineswari
- Kundaleswara
- Gauranga
- Shree Rama
- Barabhai Hanumana
- Nirmalya Hanumana
- Neelachala Upabana
- Rameswara
- Chakra Narayana
- Chaturdhama
- Kanapata Hanumana
- Niladri Bihara
- Bayabyeswara
- Shiali Lata
- Koili Baikuntha
- Tapaswi Hanumana
- Subarna Kupa
- Ananda Bazar
- Debasnana Mandapa
- Chahani Mandapa
- Baishi Pabachha
- Kashi Biswanatha
- Fate Hanumana
- Patitapabana
- Singhadwara
- Meghanada Pacheri
- Badachhatta Matha
- Uttara (Hasti) Dwara
- Paschima (Byaghra) Dwara
- Mangaleswari
- Durgamadhaba
- Dakshina (Ashwa) Dwara
- Prahari Hanumana
- Chhauani Matha
- Aruna Stambha
- Jagannatha Ballava
- Narendra Puskarini
- Bisweswari
- Dolabedi
- Banadurga, Makardhwaja
- Banadurga, Alamba Devi
- Atharanala
- Bhargabi Nadi
- Sapta Matruka
- Markanda Puskarini
- Markandeswara
- Bhagabati
- Banadurga
- Ghata Mangala
- Chamundeswari
- Harachandi
- Pandu Ashrama
- Nikumbhila Bata
- Kandu Nrushimha
- Parvati Sagara
- Shree Lokanatha
- Jambeswara
- Basheli
- Kapala Mochana
- Mani Karnika Mandira
- Barahi Devi
- Shyama Kali
- Shankaracharya Matha
- Mukti Shala
- Sweta Ganga Puskarini
- Ugrewara Ashrama
- Dakshina Kali
- Siddha Bakula Matha
- Narayani
- Sodashaputri
- Marchika Devi
- Charchika Devi
- Arddhasoshini (Mausima)
- Daria Hanumana
- Chakra Narayana
- Chakratirtha
- Shree Gundicha Mandira
- Adi Nrusimha Natha
- Nilakantheswara
- Indradyumna Puskarini
- Siddha Hanumana
- Beleswara
- Mukteswara
- Batamangala
- Kapoteswara
- Badadanda
- Saradhabali
- Muktimandapa
- Mahodadhi
- Swargadwara
1. Shree Balabhadra
Lord Balabhadra, also known as Balarama, is the elder brother of Lord Jagannatha. Revered as the embodiment of strength, duty, and agriculture, he carries a plough (hala) and a mace (gada), symbolizing his role as a protector and nurturer of Dharma. Balabhadra is believed to have an unshakable connection with the farming community and is worshipped as an agricultural deity across Odisha. In the Jagannatha Temple, his idol is stark white and massive, with expressive eyes, seated on the right side of Subhadra. During Ratha Yatra, he rides the Taladhwaja chariot, leading the divine trio in the grand procession.
2. Shree Subhadra
Devi Subhadra, the divine sister of Jagannatha and Balabhadra, is a symbol of spiritual harmony and feminine power. Her placement in the center of the sanctum and chariots reflects the balance between her two brothers—representing Shakti (energy) flanked by Shiva and Vishnu energies. Her image in the sanctum is unique: devoid of arms and painted in yellow, representing auspiciousness. Subhadra’s chariot, Darpadalana, is centrally placed in the Ratha Yatra, and she receives special attention from women devotees for blessings of family welfare, protection, and devotion.
3. Shree Jagannatha
Lord Jagannatha is the heart of Puri and the soul of Odisha. He is worshipped in an unusual wooden form (Daru Brahma) with large, round eyes and a unique abstract shape symbolizing the universal, formless divine. As a form of Krishna-Vishnu, Jagannatha is accessible to all—transcending caste, religion, and boundaries. His rituals are distinct: He falls ill, changes bodies (Nabakalebara), and travels with devotees during Ratha Yatra. Devotees see him not only as God but also as a living King. His abode, Shreemandira, stands as a towering representation of bhakti and timeless devotion.
4. Shree Sudarshana
Sudarshana Chakra, the celestial discus of Lord Vishnu, is personified and worshipped alongside the divine siblings. Representing cosmic order, protection, and time, Sudarshana is central to tantric and Vaishnavite worship. In the sanctum of the Jagannatha Temple, he is the fourth presence and considered both a weapon and a deity. He is offered Mahaprasada, adorned during festivals, and holds a spiritual significance in rituals meant for purification and protection.
5. Madhava
Madhava is another name of Lord Vishnu, often invoked with his consorts Shreedevi and Bhudevi. In the Jagannatha Temple, Madhava is worshipped in a subsidiary shrine near the sanctum. This form of Vishnu represents divine sweetness and the preserver aspect of the Trinity. Devotees offer prayers here for peace, prosperity, and spiritual guidance.
6. Bhudevi
Bhudevi, the Earth Goddess and consort of Vishnu, is venerated as the sustainer of life. Her shrine is located within the inner sanctum area, often alongside Shreedevi and Madhava. She represents the nourishing aspect of nature and is associated with fertility, growth, and environmental balance. Offerings to Bhudevi are seen as offerings to Mother Earth herself.
7. Shreedevi
Shreedevi, the goddess of wealth and fortune, is worshipped with Vishnu as a symbol of grace, abundance, and well-being. In the Jagannatha Temple, she accompanies Bhudevi in rituals and temple festivals. While Bhudevi represents the physical earth, Shreedevi symbolizes divine prosperity. Her presence completes the cosmic balance of energy within the temple.
8. Shreemandira (Jagannatha Temple)
Shreemandira is the majestic 12th-century temple constructed by King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva. Towering at 214 feet, it dominates the skyline of Puri and serves as the spiritual capital of Odisha. Built in Kalinga architecture, the temple is more than a structure—it is a living entity with daily rituals, secret traditions, and age-old customs. It is believed that Lord Jagannatha resides here not just as a deity but as a king. Thousands of servitors manage the complex rituals, and pilgrims regard every step inside as sacred.
9. Shreekshetreeswari Bimala
Goddess Bimala is the Tantric guardian of the Jagannatha Temple. Located in the inner precincts, her shrine is where all offerings (bhoga) become Mahaprasada only after her blessing. She is a fierce yet motherly form of Shakti, seated on a pedestal within a quiet courtyard. Her worship ensures the sanctity of all rituals and reflects the strong undercurrent of Shakta tradition within the Vaishnavite temple.
10. Shree Mahalaxmi
Mahalaxmi, the eternal consort of Lord Jagannatha, governs his kitchen and daily life. Her shrine within the temple is vital to the food preparation ritual. She is believed to invisibly assist the Suaras in cooking Mahaprasad and blesses every offering before it reaches the Lord. In legends, during Ratha Yatra when Jagannatha leaves the temple, she feels insulted and locks him out on his return—resulting in the famous Hera Panchami ritual. She is the unseen queen of Shreemandira.
11. Uttara Durga
This northern guardian goddess protects the temple’s sanctum and its devotees. Fierce in appearance, she represents divine security and is invoked to remove evil influences. Her shrine is revered by Tantric practitioners and pilgrims alike for spiritual protection.
12. Bata Mangala
Situated near the entrance to Puri, devotees first visit this shrine to seek blessings before heading to the Jagannatha Temple. Goddess Mangala ensures a safe, blessed darshan. Local tradition says even Lord Brahma sought her blessings before seeing Jagannatha.
13. Garuda Stambha
A tall monolithic pillar located inside the temple near the inner gate. Carved with the image of Garuda, the divine bird mount of Vishnu, it is considered so sacred that pilgrims often offer prayers here before seeing Jagannatha. Some believe Garuda serves as the medium of vision for those unable to see the Lord directly.
14. Bhoga Mandapa
The divine dining hall of the Lord, where offerings (bhogas) are displayed before being taken to the sanctum. It is also the site where a portion of the Mahaprasada is publicly distributed. The aroma of devotion fills this space daily, connecting pilgrims to the sacred through food.
15. Kalpabata
An ancient and massive banyan tree inside the temple complex, believed to be a wish-fulfilling tree (Kalpavriksha). Scriptures say Brahma once meditated beneath it. It is also associated with rebirth, with devotees tying threads and whispering wishes into its roots.
16. Rohini Kunda
Located within the temple complex, Rohini Kunda is considered the spiritual epicenter of the Jagannatha cult. It is here that the mysterious transfer of Brahma Padartha (soul-substance) occurs during Nabakalebara, when the wooden bodies of the deities are ritually replaced. The water of this sacred well is believed to be infused with cosmic energy, and pilgrims revere it as a spot where Lord Krishna’s essence entered the new body of Jagannatha.
17. Bata Ganesha
A unique shrine situated under a banyan tree (bata), this is one of the first deities pilgrims encounter before entering the temple. Lord Ganesha is worshipped here for obstacle-free darshan. With his peaceful expression and open posture, he serves as the remover of all hindrances on the spiritual path in Puri.
18. Uchhista Ganapati
This esoteric form of Ganesha, typically worshipped in Tantric traditions, is housed discreetly within the temple complex. Unlike the conventional forms, Uchhista Ganapati is seen as an embodiment of raw energy and unfiltered devotion. Devotees seeking spiritual power, strength in speech, and material success offer prayers here in silence.
19. Saraswati
Installed within the Panchadevi circuit of the Jagannatha Temple, Goddess Saraswati symbolizes knowledge, music, and divine speech. Students, scholars, and musicians often offer silent prayers here. She reminds devotees that wisdom is a path to liberation alongside devotion and karma.
20. Navagraha (Nine Planets)
These nine planetary deities are worshipped to reduce astrological afflictions and ensure balance in life. Located near the entrance of the complex, they include Surya (Sun), Chandra (Moon), Mangal (Mars), Budha (Mercury), Guru (Jupiter), Shukra (Venus), Shani (Saturn), Rahu, and Ketu. Pujas are often offered here before entering the sanctum.
21. Surya Deva (Konarka Surya Symbol)
Representing the Sun God, this deity connects the Jagannatha cult with the Konark tradition. The Surya idol inside the temple complex is a symbolic continuation of the worship of light, vitality, and divine rhythm. It also reflects Jagannatha’s connection to the broader Vedic pantheon.
22. Pada Padma
These sacred footprints are believed to belong to Lord Jagannatha himself. They represent his direct presence and interaction with devotees. Pilgrims touch and bow to them as a gesture of surrender and love. These footprints are said to grant darshan even to those who cannot reach the sanctum.
23. Jajna Bata
Located near Kalpabata, this spot is associated with ancient fire rituals or yajnas performed by sages and temple priests. It represents the connection between action (karma), offering, and spiritual elevation. It is also where remnants of Nabakalebara rites are spiritually absorbed.
24. Satyanarayana Temple
Dedicated to Lord Satyanarayana, a benevolent form of Vishnu, this temple is frequented by those seeking peace and fulfillment of vows. Devotees perform rituals here for family harmony, business success, and the resolution of troubles. The temple’s serene atmosphere makes it a favorite among householders.
25. Sakshi Gopinatha
A lesser-known yet potent deity, Sakshi Gopinatha is regarded as the “Witness Gopinath” who once gave testimony in favor of a devotee in a court of law. This shrine emphasizes the Lord’s role not just as protector, but also as just observer of truth and dharma.
26. Radhakrishna Temple
This temple inside the complex honors Radha and Krishna in their divine romantic union. It reflects the influence of the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition. The idol here is serene, and pilgrims often sit nearby chanting bhajans or meditating on the lilas of Krishna.
27. Raghunatha Temple
Raghunatha (Lord Rama) is worshipped in this shrine, symbolizing the unity of the Vishnu avatars in Puri. His calm, kingly form stands as a reminder of the Maryada Purushottama—the upholder of dharma and ideal conduct.
28. Dwarikanatha Temple
Representing Lord Krishna as the ruler of Dwarika, this shrine reflects Jagannatha’s Krishna form. It connects devotees to the philosophical and political role of Krishna, beyond his devotional aspect. The temple is often visited by Vaishnavas from western India.
29. Satya Narayana Mandap
A special mandap (pavilion) where Satya Narayana puja is conducted regularly. This structure facilitates community gatherings and rituals, especially on Purnima (full moon) days. The mandap is filled with the sounds of Vedic chanting and the aroma of prasada offerings.
30. Nrusingha Temple (Inside Complex)
This temple is dedicated to Narasimha, the lion-man form of Vishnu who destroyed demon Hiranyakashipu. It is believed to protect the temple premises from all evil and negative energies. The deity’s fierce form reminds devotees that divine intervention is swift when righteousness is threatened.
31. Markandeya Pond
Named after the sage Markandeya, this pond lies just outside the temple and is believed to have healing properties. Devotees bathe here during holy occasions. Legends say that Lord Jagannatha appeared before Markandeya here to grant him moksha.
32. Shankhesvara Temple
This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of a conch (shankha). It signifies Puri’s name as Shankha Kshetra—the Sacred Conch Field. The temple lies in the eastern direction, associated with purity and cosmic sound.
33. Lokanatha Temple
Located west of the main temple, Lokanatha is one of the four guardian Shiva shrines around Puri. The linga is always submerged in water, believed to be from the Ganga. Pilgrims believe a visit here cleanses sins and balances spiritual energy before entering Jagannatha’s domain.
34. Jamesvara Temple
Another important Shiva temple guarding the southern entrance to Shreekshetra. It is one of the ashta lingas protecting Puri. Devotees offer water and bilva leaves here to please the Lord and ensure inner purity before darshan.
35. Kapalamochana Temple
This shrine of Shiva is linked to the legend where he was freed from the sin of Brahma-hatya (killing Brahma). Pilgrims come here to seek forgiveness for grave sins and karmic cleansing.
36. Nilakantha Temple
Located near Markandeya tank, Nilakantha represents Shiva in his blue-throated form after drinking poison during Samudra Manthan. This temple connects Jagannatha’s Vaishnavism with Shaivism, emphasizing harmony between traditions.
37. Dakhina Kali Temple
A fierce form of the Divine Mother, Dakshina Kali is worshipped in tantric practices. This temple lies to the south and is revered by devotees seeking protection, justice, and tantric blessings. Her eyes are intense and blessings swift.
38. Bhubaneswari Temple
Dedicated to the sovereign goddess of the universe, this temple sits to the west and is associated with royal power and spiritual sovereignty. She is the guardian of the west direction in the Sankha Kshetra layout.
39. Banadurga Temple
The forest form of Goddess Durga, Banadurga is believed to reside at the borders of Puri. She is the fierce protector of devotees entering the Kshetra from forested routes and protects against wild forces—both physical and spiritual.
40. Alarnatha Temple (Brahmagiri)
Located 25 km from Puri, Alarnatha is worshipped during Anavasara—when Jagannatha rests for 15 days. Devotees believe that Jagannatha manifests here as Alarnatha and offers darshan to those missing him at Puri.
41. Narasimha Temple (Outer Complex)
This is the second Narasimha shrine located outside the main temple. Worshipped primarily by Tantric practitioners and Vaishnavas alike, it symbolizes the Lord’s fiery resolve to protect devotees. The temple is calm yet powerful, and the idol shows Narasimha in a meditative yet alert posture.
42. Mausi Maa Temple (Ardhasini)
Mausi Maa (maternal aunt) is a guardian deity and protector of Lord Jagannatha during his return from Gundicha Temple after Ratha Yatra. He stops at her temple to accept poda pitha (a traditional burnt cake). This temple and tradition reflect the familial love and community-centered worship in Puri.
43. Gundicha Temple
The destination of the Ratha Yatra, Gundicha is called the “Garden House” of Jagannatha. He stays here for 7 days during Rath Yatra. The temple is sacred, peaceful, and is considered the birthplace of Lord Jagannatha in his current wooden form, as the daru first arrived here before being carved.
44. Indradyumna Tank
A sacred water body named after King Indradyumna, the legendary founder of the Jagannatha cult. Pilgrims bathe here to cleanse themselves before temple darshan. Legends say that the divine log (Daru Brahma) floated in these waters before it was carried to Gundicha.
45. Niladri Vihar (Museum)
This site houses the Jagannatha Culture Museum where visitors can explore centuries of rituals, arts, festivals, and architecture connected to the temple. It complements the temple visit with visual and historical context.
46. Siddha Mahavir Temple
Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this shrine lies near the Gundicha temple. Known for fulfilling wishes of sincere devotees, he is also seen as the eternal protector of the deities during their public chariot journeys.
47. Chakratirtha
A sacred beachside site where Sudarshana Chakra is believed to have descended to sanctify the earth. Pilgrims take purifying dips here, and it is often visited during Kartika and Snana Purnima.
48. Lokanath Mahadev (Water-linga)
Unlike regular Shiva lingas, this one remains submerged under water throughout the year. A natural spring keeps it hidden, surfacing only on special occasions. Visiting this temple is said to wash away sins and grant spiritual clarity.
49. Kanchi Ganesha Temple
Associated with a historical event where Lord Jagannatha helped defeat the Kanchi King. This form of Ganesha was brought from Kanchi and represents divine strategy, diplomacy, and intervention in royal matters.
50. Bedi Hanuman
Bound Hanuman—this temple narrates the legend that Hanuman was tied to prevent him from leaving Puri without permission. A rare depiction of the ever-moving deity in a restrained form; yet he protects the temple from the ocean’s wrath.
51. Chakra Narayana Temple
Dedicated to the Vishnu aspect of the Sudarshana Chakra, this temple connects devotees to cosmic rhythm and divine timing. Rituals here are especially potent during eclipses and planetary shifts.
52. Nilachala Saraswati Peetha
A spiritual learning center where scholars of Odissi, Sanskrit, and temple traditions gather. It is associated with Goddess Saraswati and emphasizes Puri as a seat of both devotion and wisdom.
53. Narayani Temple
Goddess Narayani, a fierce manifestation of Shakti, is worshipped here for health, protection, and strength. She complements the worship of Subhadra and Durga in the city’s Devi circuit.
54. Sakhigopala (Satyabadi)
Located 17 km from Puri, this is a living deity of Lord Krishna who once walked from Vidyanagar to testify for a devotee. A stunning temple and divine idol, it draws pilgrims especially during Anla Nabami and Radhashtami.
55. Vimala Shaktipeeth
This temple inside the Jagannatha Temple is also recognized as a Shakti Peetha — where the navel of Sati fell. It is the ultimate fusion of Vaishnavism and Shaktism, granting the temple complex its unparalleled sanctity.
56. Mangala Temple (Kakatpur)
About 55 km from Puri, this goddess assists priests during the Nabakalebara rituals by appearing in dreams to guide the location of new sacred logs. She is the spiritual mother of Jagannatha and is approached before every idol replacement.
57. Jambeswar Temple
Another significant Shiva shrine in Puri, worshipped in conjunction with the Sankha Kshetra circuit. Pilgrims visit to balance energies of Vishnu and Shiva before major rituals.
58. Panchatirtha
The five sacred tanks of Puri — Indradyumna, Rohini, Markandeya, Swetaganga, and Mahodadhi (sea) — are to be bathed in for complete spiritual purification. Visiting all five is said to equal a hundred pilgrimages.
59. Swetaganga Tank
A pure white water tank near the main temple, known for its medicinal and spiritual benefits. Women often bathe here before offering to Goddess Mahalaxmi.
60. Vaikuntha Dwara (Main Gate)
The main entrance to the sanctum, used during the Nabakalebara festival. It opens only on special occasions and is believed to lead directly to Vaikuntha (heaven). Entry through this door is considered extremely auspicious.
61. Nrusimha Brahmachari Ashram
A spiritual retreat and resting place of ascetics near the city center, associated with purity, study, and inner renunciation. Often visited by pilgrims who want deep spiritual immersion.
62. Nilachala Chakra Viewpoint
A vantage point offering a sacred view of the golden chakra atop the Jagannatha Temple. It’s believed that one who sees this golden disc from afar gains the merit of a full temple visit.
63. Bhakta Salabega’s Samadhi
A Muslim devotee of Jagannatha who composed soul-stirring bhajans, Salabega’s tomb lies on the Grand Road. Jagannatha’s chariot is said to pause near it during Ratha Yatra to honor his devotion.
64. Mahodadhi (Bay of Bengal)
The sea bordering Puri is worshipped as a living deity. Rituals like Panchuka bath, Chandipath, and offerings to ancestors are conducted here. Mahodadhi represents liberation and the vastness of divine consciousness.
65. Chakra Narayana Matha
A traditional matha or monastery where Sudarshana worship is conducted daily. It upholds the ancient tantric rites that infuse the main temple with protective energy.
66. Ganga Mata Matha
Founded by Ganga Mata Devi, a princess-turned-saint from Bengal, this matha emphasizes service, Vedantic study, and devotion to Jagannatha. Pilgrims come here to study scriptures and witness disciplined monastic life.
67. Radhakanta Matha
A Gaudiya Vaishnava matha near the Jagannatha Temple, housing a beautiful idol of Radhakanta (Krishna). It is deeply connected with Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, who often visited this place.
68. Emar Matha
Once the largest matha in Puri, known for its treasure vaults and wealth. It follows the Ramanuja tradition and supports Jagannatha Temple services. It also played a key role in preserving Odia religious manuscripts.
69. Jhanjapita Matha
Another important Ramanuja matha. It is said to have been established by Ramanujacharya himself during his visit to Puri. The matha continues daily Vedic chanting and serves temple duties.
70. Gambhira (Chaitanya’s Room)
The sacred room in which Chaitanya Mahaprabhu lived and merged into Jagannatha consciousness. Located near Haridasa Thakura’s samadhi, it is a powerful site of bhakti meditation.
71. Haridasa Thakura’s Samadhi
This devout Muslim Vaishnava stayed outside the temple but chanted the Lord’s name 24×7. His samadhi lies by the beach, where many come to pay homage for interfaith unity and unwavering devotion.
72. Tota Gopinath Temple
Believed to have an idol of Krishna installed by Chaitanya Mahaprabhu himself. This Gopinath idol is in a seated posture, said to have descended lower so that the aging Mahaprabhu could embrace him easily.
73. Swargadwar (Gateway to Heaven)
This cremation ground on the sea shore is where countless devotees choose to be cremated, believing it leads straight to Vaikuntha. Even Lord Jagannatha’s symbolic body is immersed here during Nabakalebara.
74. Seven-Step Well (Saptapadi Kunda)
A stepped well where many believe the Pandavas bathed during their exile. Each step symbolizes a virtue and the water is believed to wash away seven kinds of sins.
75. Chakra Tirtha Matha
Located near Chakratirtha, this matha preserves rare manuscripts, temple architecture styles, and hosts religious debates. It also runs charity food services for pilgrims.
76. Indra Sabha Temple
A hidden gem that connects to ancient celestial worship. Though not grand in scale, it holds inscriptions and stone carvings linking Puri to Indra, king of the gods.
77. Pancha Pandava Cave
A small natural cave believed to be where the Pandavas rested during their spiritual journey. Pilgrims visit for protection and strength.
78. Bhrugu Ashram
Located on the outskirts, it is believed Sage Bhrugu meditated here, gaining visions of the divine forms of Jagannatha. It is a peaceful, forested retreat for sadhus.
79. Lakshmi Narayan Temple
This temple celebrates the unity of Lakshmi and Vishnu, expressing divine balance of wealth and dharma. It’s located near Bada Danda and is often visited before temple entry.
80. Niladri Vihar (Housing Colony Temple)
Though modern, this temple hosts daily Jagannatha rituals in a serene setting and is part of newer spiritual circuits for residents of Puri.
81. Nilachala Narayan Ashram
A retreat center promoting yoga, Vedic rituals, and Vaishnavism. Popular among international visitors seeking spiritual immersion.
82. Atharnala Bridge
An ancient 13-arch bridge believed to have been constructed during the Ganga dynasty. It is the symbolic entrance to Puri. Pilgrims traditionally bow their heads here before entering the town.
83. Sidha Bakul Tree
Under this ancient tree, Haridas Thakura chanted 3 lakh names of Krishna daily. Even today, one feels an air of silence and devotion beneath its shade.
84. Dola Mandap
The pavilion where Dol Jatra (Holi) celebrations are initiated. Here the deities are brought out in palanquins for ceremonial swinging and playing with colors.
85. Lakshmi Narasimha Temple
Worshipped especially during Narasimha Chaturdashi, this temple combines divine protection with the gentleness of Lakshmi’s presence.
86. Bhoga Mandap North (Secondary)
Another hall for displaying and sanctifying food offerings before they are brought to Jagannatha. Sometimes used during festivals when primary mandaps are full.
87. Krishna Balaram Temple (ISCON)
A major center for the International Society for Krishna Consciousness in Puri. Hosts daily kirtan, bhajan, lectures, and houses a vibrant community of global devotees.
88. Neelachal Bhakta Niwas
Guest accommodation and spiritual retreat run by temple trusts. Pilgrims often attend morning prayers and readings here.
89. Patitapaban Gate
The southern gate of Jagannatha Temple where the idol of Patitapaban (Savior of the Fallen) stands. It is for those who are not allowed into the temple—Jagannatha sees them from here.
90. Atharanala Hanuman
A shrine near the bridge where Hanuman watches over the entrance to Srikshetra. Worship here begins the protective circuit for devotees.
91. Raghunandan Library
An archival library containing ancient palm-leaf manuscripts, temple records, and texts on rituals. Scholars visit here for deep study.
92. Siddha Bakula Vriksha
The same as Entry 83 — but considered separately when following strict circuits like Parikrama. Pilgrims meditate here during Kartika month.
93. Balighai Beach Temple
Located just outside Puri, this temple is used during sea rituals, immersion of Nabakalebara remains, and beachside shraddha offerings.
94. Chakra Vedi
A platform built for circumambulating the Chakra view of the Jagannatha Temple — those unable to enter the temple often complete Pradakshina here.
95. Panchu Pandav Matha
Named after the five Pandavas, this matha is a peaceful learning center that propagates values of the Mahabharata and Vedantic knowledge.
Ananta Vasudev Matha – A Vaishnavite monastery devoted to Lord Vishnu in his cosmic serpent form.
Balaram Das Samadhi – Final resting place of the poet-saint and author of the Odia Jagannatha Mahatmya.
Dasavatara Temple – A rare shrine honoring the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu under one roof.
Narottama Dasa Thakura Kutir – Meditation space of a key Gaudiya Vaishnava saint, vibrant with bhajans.
Srinivasa Acharya Matha – A calm site linked with devotional reform and Chaitanya Vaishnava lineage.
Ramakrishna Mission Temple – A serene retreat dedicated to Sri Ramakrishna, Vivekananda & service.
Bhaskareswar Mahadev Temple – Ancient Shiva linga believed to have solar associations.
Chakra Matha (South) – Home to rituals involving Sudarshana Chakra energy and protective rites.
Nityananda Matha – A peaceful spiritual center linked to Lord Nityananda’s followers.
Kashi Matha (South Indian) – A Madhva matha that maintains southern Vedantic traditions in Puri.
Dvaraka Matha (Puri Branch) – Associated with Adi Shankaracharya’s western seat of learning.
Triveni Sangam Point – A symbolic confluence of sacred waters believed to exist spiritually in Puri.
Kalpa Vriksha Matha (North Lane) – Revered for sheltering a wish-fulfilling divine tree.
Jagannath Ballav Garden – Supplies temple flowers; associated with romantic lilas of Jagannatha.
Mukti Mandap – The spiritual court where temple scholars and rituals are debated and codified.
Pancha Tirtha Shrine Marker – Signboard for pilgrims marking all 5 sacred bathing tanks.
Anand Bazaar – World’s largest spiritual food court where Mahaprasad is sold and shared.
Lakshmi Narayan Matha (Old Town) – Combines goddess Lakshmi’s grace with Vaishnavite teachings.
Suryanarayan Temple (Mid Town) – A sun temple that connects Puri to the Konark legacy.
Bhavaninath Shiva Temple – Lesser-known but potent Shiva shrine known for quiet power.
Barunei Durga Shrine – A border shrine to fierce goddess Durga, guarding the outer ring of Kshetra.
Venkateswara Balaji Temple (New Puri) – A replica of Tirupati Balaji, drawing South Indian pilgrims.
Krishna Kanta Samadhi – Burial place of a poet-devotee known for Puri-centric bhakti poetry.
Shakti Peeth North Marker – Symbolic point marking the northern boundary of Goddess worship in Puri.
Govinda Dev Temple – Celebrates Krishna in his royal Dwaraka form; less visited but powerful.
Sesha Dev Temple – Linked to Ananta Shesha, upholder of Vishnu and symbol of infinite energy.
Kshirachora Gopinath Temple (Connected Site) – Near Puri, famous for Krishna’s butter-stealing leela.
Santoshi Mata Shrine – Popular recent addition where devotees pray on Fridays for wishes.
Kali Mandir (Beachside) – Waves crash near this shrine of fierce Kali, worshipped for justice.
Muktidayini Devi Temple – “Liberation-giver” goddess, venerated during Kartika and Durga Navami.
