Countless pilgrims over a millennia have taken a holy dip while visiting the Jagannath Temple at Puri's lovely beach which is one of the best beaches not only in Orissa but also in the country.

The crashing surf around the conically hated fishermen make an endearing picture to carry home. The brilliant sunshine gilds the waters as the day awakens and at eventide, creating an aura of almost unrealistic sanctity of the beauty trailing in their wake. The currents are pretty strong here, so swimmers need to take care.

Balighai Beach, about 8 km away, is relatively quieter, and if you are lucky you may even spot the residential deer browsing through the undergrowth near the beach.