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Travel Tips & Safety

Home Travel Tips & Safety
Travel Tips & Safety

Travel Tips & Safety

Puri is a popular tourist destination, famous for Jagannath Temple, beaches, and cultural heritage. To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip, here are important travel tips and safety guidelines.

 

General Travel Tips

1️ Best Time to Visit Puri

  • Winter (October – February) –  Best time for sightseeing, temples, and beaches.
  • Monsoon (July – September) –  Good for lush greenery & fewer crowds, but avoid heavy rains.
  • Summer (March – June) –  Very hot, visit early morning or late evening for outdoor activities.

 

2️ How to Reach Puri?

  • By Air: Nearest Airport – Bhubaneswar (BBI) (60 km from Puri).
  • By Train: Puri Railway Station (PURI) is well-connected to major cities.
  • By Road: National Highways NH-16 & NH-316 connect Puri to Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and Kolkata.

 

3️ Local Transport in Puri

  • Auto-rickshaws & cycle rickshaws – Cheap for short distances.
  • E-rickshaws & taxis – Available for city travel.
  • Bicycle & scooter rentals₹300–₹500 per day (best for budget travelers).
  • Private cabs – Best for day trips to Konark & Chilika Lake.

 Tip: Always negotiate fares before hiring autos/taxis.

 

 Safety Tips in Puri

1️ Road & Travel Safety

Avoid traveling at night on highways, as roads can be deserted.
✅ Use official prepaid taxis or trusted ride services for safety.
✅ Be cautious while crossing roads, as traffic can be chaotic.

 

2️ Health & Hygiene Tips

✅ Carry basic medicines, insect repellent, and a first-aid kit.
Drink bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach issues.
✅ If visiting in summer, stay hydrated and wear sunscreen & sunglasses.

 Tip: Avoid eating cut fruits or street food from unhygienic stalls.

 

3️ Beach & Water Safety

Swim only in designated safe zones (Puri Beach can have strong currents).
✅ Avoid going too deep into the sea during high tide.
✅ Look for lifeguard flags & warning signs.

 Tip: Be cautious of sand erosion near Swargadwar Beach.

 

4️ Temple & Cultural Etiquette

Dress modestly (especially when visiting Jagannath Temple & Lokanath Temple).
✅ Follow local customs and avoid clicking photos inside temples.
Remove shoes before entering temples.

 Tip: Non-Hindus are not allowed inside Jagannath Temple, but you can view it from Raghunandan Library.

 

5️ Shopping & Scams to Avoid

✅ Always bargain at local markets (Puri Beach Market, Grand Road Market).
✅ Beware of fake handloom sarees – buy from government-approved stores like Utkalika or Boyanika.
✅ Avoid unauthorized guides at tourist spots.

 Tip: Only buy Mahaprasad from official temple stalls (Ananda Bazaar).

 

6️ Wildlife & Adventure Safety

✅ Follow guidelines in wildlife sanctuaries – do not feed animals.
✅ Wear comfortable trekking shoes if visiting hills or nature spots.
✅ Avoid swimming in unknown water bodies due to crocodiles (Chilika Lake region).

 

7️ Beware of Pickpockets & Crowded Areas

✅ Be extra careful during Rath Yatra Festival (June-July), as huge crowds gather.
✅ Keep your cash & valuables in a secure money belt or front pockets.
✅ Avoid carrying too much cash – use digital payments where possible.

 

8️ Emergency Contacts

  • Police:  100
  • Ambulance:  108
  • Fire Brigade:  101
  • Tourist Helpline:  1800-11-1363
  • Puri Railway Station Inquiry:  06752-222017
  • Jagannath Temple Helpline:  06752-222002

 Tip: Save emergency numbers before your trip.

 

 Quick Do’s & Don’ts in Puri

Do’s:

✔️ Respect local traditions & religious customs.
✔️ Carry cash (ATMs may not be available in remote areas).
✔️ Book hotel & train tickets in advance, especially during festivals & peak seasons.
✔️ Use mosquito repellent if visiting Chilika Lake & nature spots.

 

Don’ts:

 Avoid littering at beaches & temples.
 Don’t fall for fake tourist guides offering "special temple darshan".
 Avoid swimming in deep waters due to strong sea currents.
 Don’t consume alcohol near religious sites or public areas.

✔️ Visit Jagannath Temple early morning (before 8 AM) to avoid long queues.
✔️ Take a cycle-rickshaw tour to explore Puri’s old lanes & local markets.
✔️ For Chilika Lake tours, hire official OTDC (Odisha Tourism) boats for safety.
✔️ Rent a two-wheeler if you plan to explore nearby places like Konark & Raghurajpur Village.

Puri is a safe and tourist-friendly city, but being prepared and alert ensures a smooth & memorable trip. Whether you're visiting for spiritual bliss, beach fun, or cultural experiences, these travel tips will help you enjoy Puri to the fullest!