Temples in Puri
Puri's temples follow rules older than the town's hotels, and the most important one is simple: the Jagannath temple is for Hindus only. Here is what to expect at the gate and where everyone else can go.
Shree Jagannath Temple
The temple enshrines Jagannath with his elder brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra, carved in wood rather than stone. It is run under a state act by a temple administration, and entry is restricted to Hindus. At the gate, security checks for phones, cameras, bags, umbrellas and leather, none of which are allowed in. Free shoe and phone stands are set up near the Lion Gate, and private counters outside charge a small fee.
The four gates
The temple has gates on four sides: the Lion Gate (east, on Grand Road), the Horse Gate, the Tiger Gate and the Elephant Gate. For a few years after 2020 only the Lion Gate was used; all four reopened in June 2024. Most visitors still enter from Grand Road.
Inside, briefly
Darshan usually runs from early morning until late at night, with breaks for rituals when the inner sanctum closes. Crowds peak in the morning and on festival days. Some priests (pandas) offer to guide you through for a fee; agree the amount first. Sections of the temple can close at short notice. In March and April 2026, for example, darshan was restricted while the treasury, the Ratna Bhandar, was inventoried for the first time since 1978.
Gundicha Temple
The garden temple at the end of Grand Road hosts the deities for about a week during Rath Yatra. It has been closed to regular visitors for several years outside the festival. Reports in September 2026 said it would reopen in early October with a small entry fee and limited areas open. Confirm before you go.
Other shrines
Lokanath, a Shiva temple on the west side of town, and the Mausi Maa temple on Grand Road are both part of the pilgrim circuit.
Etiquette
- Dress modestly and leave leather at the hotel.
- Photograph from outside only.
- Keep valuables to a minimum; you will leave most things at the stand.
Questions
Puri — FAQ
Why can't non-Hindus enter the Jagannath temple?
It is a long-standing temple rule enforced by the administration. Well-known non-Hindu visitors have been refused over the years, so no exceptions should be expected.
What is the Ratna Bhandar?
The temple treasury where the deities' jewellery is kept. It was opened in 2024 for repairs and inventoried in March and April 2026; darshan was restricted during that work.
Which gate should I use?
The Lion Gate on Grand Road is the main entrance and has the deposit stands. All four gates have been open since June 2024.
Can I see the deities without entering the temple?
Yes, during Rath Yatra, when they are brought out onto the chariots on Grand Road, usually in June or July.