Photo by Sudeshna Sahoo on Unsplash
Location
Puri, Odisha
Duration
5–7 days
Frequency
Annual
Language
Odia, Hindi
Upcoming confirmed & estimated dates
2026
4 Nov – 10 Nov
The Puri Beach Festival is an annual cultural celebration held on the scenic Puri Sea Beach in Odisha, dedicated to showcasing the state's rich art, crafts, cuisine, and sports. Initiated in 1993, this five to seven-day event transforms the coastline into a vibrant stage for classical and folk dances, local handicraft exhibitions, and a diverse food festival, with a subtle underlying dedication to Lord Jagannath promoting unity. It draws thousands of tourists and locals, making it a significant platform to experience Odisha-specific cultural expressions like Odissi dance and intricate Pattachitra art. The festival is ideal for cultural enthusiasts, foodies, and those looking to explore the coastal heritage of Odisha through its unique local traditions.
What to experience at this festival
Travel Tips
Book accommodation in Puri well in advance, ideally 3-4 months prior, as hotels near Puri Beach experience high demand and significant price increases (often 2-3 times regular rates) during the festival period.
Puri Beach can get very crowded during the festival, especially in the evenings for cultural performances. Plan to arrive early for popular events to secure a good viewing spot.
The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) in Bhubaneswar, approximately 60 km away. From there, taxis and buses are readily available to reach Puri. The Puri Railway Station (PURI) is about 2 km from the beach.
