Jagannath Temple, Puri

The Jagannath Temple's deities, Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra, are carved from wood, a rare feature in Hindu tradition. In a ritual called Nabakalebara, which occurs every 8 to 19 years according to a specific astronomical calculation, the old wooden idols are replaced with newly carved ones.

The Jagannath Temple is renowned for its world-famous Rath Yatra, held every year in the month of Ashadha, during which all three deities are placed on massive, decorated chariots and taken to the Gundicha Temple. The temple represents the eastern point of the all-India Char Dham.

The Jagannath Temple sits right within Puri town, making it easier to reach than the other Char Dham, no trekking or altitude challenges involved. The temple's Mahaprasad (food offering prepared in the temple's own kitchen) holds special significance, and is partaken of by lakhs of devotees every day.

The temple follows a particular, strictly-maintained tradition, only Hindus, Jains, Buddhists, and Sikhs are permitted into the main sanctum, with non-Hindus and foreign nationals not allowed entry. Puri sees very heavy crowds during Rath Yatra, so planning that visit carefully is worthwhile.