Jagannath Temple

The Jagannath Temple in Puri is one of the four sacred Char Dham pilgrimage sites of Hinduism. Dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a unique form of Krishna, the 12th-century Orissan temple rises 65 metres above the city and is a masterpiece of Kalinga architecture. The main spire is topped with the Sudarshana Chakra and a flag, both of which are believed to always face against the wind regardless of its direction. The temple complex covers 10 acres and contains over 120 shrines, with entry strictly restricted to Hindus. The annual Rath Yatra, during which massive wooden chariots carrying Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are pulled by thousands of devotees through the streets of Puri, is world-famous. The English word juggernaut derives from this festival. The temple's Mahaprasad is cooked daily for over 100,000 people and is considered among the holiest food offerings in Hinduism.