Narendra Pokhari Puri, Odisha
Do you want to spend your next Odisha tour in some different and interesting destination? Well, then check Narendra Pokhari in Puri. The reason why it is often neglected by travelers in general is that it does not attract people much. However, when you are traveling to this gorgeous state of Odisha, you must visit it definitely.
Narendra Pokhari or Narendra Tank is an ancient water source located at the heart of the Puri City in Odisha. This would be a place where history, religion, and nature come together to create the very magical experience for the visitors. For your planning in visiting Odisha, find a place for this marvelous location into your ODISHA tour itinerary.
The history of tank can be dated back to the 12th century. Its legend has it that King Narendra Deva who at that time was governing this region constructed it. Once the king had a dream of Lord Jagannath, who advised him to make this tank-that pure or sanctifying ground-and since then Narendra Pokhari has been always in the cultural landscape and religious importance of Puri.
If you plan an ecotour Odisha experience, Narendra Pokhari should feature on the radar. This tank is well surrounded by lush greenery with a great deal of diverse flora and fauna, and there are varied species of birds and aquatic life that will make it a paradise for any nature lover or photographer. The whole atmosphere there is cool and tranquil with natural beauty – a great place for meditation and relaxation.
It is easy to reach Narendra Pokhari since it is located close to the famous Jagannath Temple. While passing through various places in Odisha for visiting, you will come to understand that Narendra Pokhari has been located in the heart of Puri city centre, hence easy to reach by visiting tourists. Some short walkways or hiring local auto-rickshaws from the main temple area could suffice.
Possibly the most striking feature about Narendra Pokhari is the architectural grandeur surrounding it. The tank is bounded on both sides by pristine stone steps, or ghats, that cascade down to the water’s edge. The ghats are draped with highly intricate carvings and sculptures-thoiscussions of great craftsmanship by the ancient Odishan artisans. Around the tank, I would walk, amazed by the lovely reflections of the surroulding structures in its still waters.
In Narendra Pokhari, people’s religious and spiritual experiences gain significance. The holy tank is reverenced by the devotees of Lord Jagannath in many rituals and festivals. During the Rath Yatra festival, it is during this significant festival that the deities of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra are brought to Narendra Pokhari for a special bathing ceremony known as “Mahawhanadi.” This event attracts thousands of pilgrims from around the globe.
While searching for tourist places in Odisha, one would find some compelling legends and stories attached to Narendra Pokhari. One of the best-known legends about the tank explains that it miraculously filled overnight with water in the face of severe drought to save the people of Puri. Healing property of the tank is another legend that claims multiple people believe that a dip in those waters can treat various diseases.
While visiting Narendra Pokhari, do not forget to go around the sightseeing in this region. Jagannath temple is an easy stone’s throw away and also visit Gundicha Temple, Lokanath Temple, and that beautiful Puri Beach. These Odisha visit places will be rich in spirituality, history, and natural beauty. All in all, your trip to Puri will never be forgotten.
The best time to visit Narendra Pokhari and other tourist spots in Odisha is in the winter from October to February. The climate is pleasant and nice to walk out during this season of winter. If you want to enjoy the crowded atmosphere of festivals like Rath Yatra, then you may plan to visit Narendra Pokhari during June or July.
Some Tourist Advisory Tips for Visiting Narendra Pokhari
- Clothes- one should be properly dressed, as it is a place of worship
- Carry a camera: It has wonderful architecture and nature around it.
- To click a better photograph, early morning and sunset times are advisable
One can hire a local guide who would tell the history or mythology of this place - Visit in conjunction with other attractions around Odisha.
A place that no traveler desirous of being a part of Odisha tourism would like to miss, Narendra Pokhari has all the richness of history, aesthetic beauty in architecture, and spiritual significance. It’s a place that reflects the entire history of Odisha’s culture. Whether it’s history, religion, or even nature, Narendra Pokhari is here to treat you to it all.
Plan your ecotour Odisha, and make sure you have this mystery destination on your list. There’s definitely a peaceful ambiance and the beauty of architecture with a few legends attached to Narendra Pokhari that will be etched forever in one’s memory. So, pack your bags, take off to Odisha, and prepare for the magic of Narendra Pokhari in Puri!
Remember that Odisha is a place full of wonders waiting to be discovered. From ancient temples to pristine beaches, from sanctuaries to wildlife and vibrant cultural practices, there are no limitations to places to visit in Odisha. So why wait? Start planning your Odisha tour today and get set for an unforgettable journey through this beautiful state. Narendra Pokhari and several such treasures are ready to welcome you with wide open arms!