Sri Jagannath Temple
Topped by Vishnu's wheel and flag, the 64m (210-ft.) shikhara (spire) of Jagannath Temple dominates Puri's skyline, and it's possible to circumambulate the entire complex by wandering through the market streets around the periphery walls. However, for non-Hindus, the best view of this mighty Kalinga temple is from the balcony of Raghunandan Library, across the street. From here, you not only get a glimpse of the tremendously active temple life, but you'll be privy to the colorful activity around the souvenir stalls that spread around the temple in every direction. From this viewing point, both the size of the temple and the sheer numbers of swarming people are impressive; the temple buildings themselves are filthy with mildew. Incidentally, you will find images of Lord Jagannath and his siblings everywhere in this part of India. Pitch-black with squat physiques and exaggerated features, they could well have been inspiration for the animation technique used by the creators of South Park: The crude, flat-featured, raccoon-eyed faces have thin red curling grins. You will be asked to sign a register on your way out with a column for donations with suspiciously high figures (for instance, two zeros added after Rs 20); in all fairness, make a donation, but don't get conned.
Topped by Vishnu's wheel and flag, the 64m (210-ft.) shikhara (spire) of Jagannath Temple dominates Puri's skyline, and it's possible to circumambulate the entire complex by wandering through the market streets around the periphery walls. However, for non-Hindus, the best view of this mighty Kalinga temple is from the balcony of Raghunandan Library, across the street. From here, you not only get a glimpse of the tremendously active temple life, but you'll be privy to the colorful activity around the souvenir stalls that spread around the temple in every direction. From this viewing point, both the size of the temple and the sheer numbers of swarming people are impressive; the temple buildings themselves are filthy with mildew. Incidentally, you will find images of Lord Jagannath and his siblings everywhere in this part of India. Pitch-black with squat physiques and exaggerated features, they could well have been inspiration for the animation technique used by the creators of South Park: The crude, flat-featured, raccoon-eyed faces have thin red curling grins. You will be asked to sign a register on your way out with a column for donations with suspiciously high figures (for instance, two zeros added after Rs 20); in all fairness, make a donation, but don't get conned.
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