A little gem on India's eastern coast

Have just come back from a refreshing trip to Puri, a throbbing town in Orissa, a tourist destination as well as a religious hotspot. It's location, alongside the Bay of Bengal, gives it a unique sea coast and lovely beaches. A favourite of Bengali travellers from time immemorial, Puri has reigned supreme in the list of favoured travel destinations of the die-hard Bengali. Its proximity to Kolkata makes it almost like home away from home while on travel.

The sea at Puri is turbulent most of the time, with successive waves crashing on top of each other continuously. The effect is that of unruly kids tumbling and falling over each other! At night the sea seems to acquire a different character, a hauntingly mysterious entity beckoning with its dark vastness. The best part is that the town is very much alive at night, with its bustling markets and well lit beaches. The uniqueness of Puri lies in its bustle and its homeliness. It does not "feel" like a tourist destination.

The Sri Jagannath Temple, one of the holy Char Dhams in Hindu religion, is a major draw for the devout Hindu. The historic temple is formidable for its strictness and character. Even the most educated and elite person is humbled in the presence of Sri Jagannath, reigning with his siblings, Balaram and Subhadra. The temple authorities have been criticised, however, for barring non-Hindus from entering the premises. This is one rule, which I feel, even the Lord won't be happy about. To Him, after all, all are equal.

UNESCO Heritage site, the world famous Konark temple is just an hour's drive from Puri. The Sun Temple, with its unique stone sculptures and frescos, gives a peek into India's glorious past. Our ancient artisan forefathers had created poetry on stone, without the aid of any modern technology. What scientific precision and architectural perfection Konark combines! It has to be seen and experienced to be believed.

The world weary traveller must visit Puri at least once to revive flagging spirits and charge the soul. Its not everyday that nature and spiritual beneficience combine to give us a recharging and rejuvenating experience.