Jagannath Temple in Puri is an iconic pilgrimage site for Hindus and a part of the Char Dham pilgrimages. The temple is most famous for its annual Rath Yatra or Chariot Festival. Ideally, the best time to visit the Jagannath Temple is during the cooler months from October to February. During this period, the weather in Puri is pleasant with minimal humidity and temperatures ranging between 10°C to 18°C, making it comfortable for tourists to explore and participate in temple activities. These months also coincide with several Indian festivals, adding to the cultural richness of a visit to the temple.
However, if one wishes to witness the splendor of the Rath Yatra, they should plan their visit in June or July. The exact date varies each year as it's based on the Hindu lunar calendar. It's important to note that Rath Yatra attracts hundreds of thousands of devotees, so the town gets incredibly crowded, and accommodations can be scarce if not booked well in advance. The monsoon season beginning around June does bring rain, but it usually doesn’t overshadow the festive atmosphere. Keep in mind that outside the Rath Yatra period, the temple is less crowded and the serenity of the site can be a more spiritually fulfilling experience for many.
