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Puri is a holy town in Odisha known for its significant Sudarshan Crafts Museum, which can be visited to experience real brilliance in traditional craftsmanship. Founded in 1977 by one of the most accomplished sculptors, Shri Sudarshan Sahoo, the museum pays tribute to stone, wood, and bronze craftsmanship. This is a beautiful backdrop of great works and a living testament to the richness of Odisha’s heritage, with skills passed on from generation to generation. For all art lovers and cultural explorers, it is a serene retreat into the world of fine art.
Quick Details About Sudarshan Crafts Museum
Elevation: Approximately 1 meter (3.3 feet) above sea level
Where To Stay: Hotel Mayfair Waves, Golden Palace Hotel, Hotel Puri Beach Resort
Where To Eat: Authentic Odia cuisine and seafood at Bhookha Bhoot, a mix of Indian and Chinese dishes at Chung Wah Restaurant, fresh seafood at Dhaba by the Beach
Sudarshan Crafts Museum Address: Station Rd, Puri, Odisha 752002
Sudarshan Crafts Museum Timings: 10 AM to 12 PM, 2 PM to 8 PM. Check for holiday closures before visiting
Sudarshan Crafts Museum Ticket Price: ₹5 for Indians, ₹50 for foreigners
Best Time To Visit: October to February
How To Reach Sudarshan Crafts Museum
Photo: Aditya Mahar / Wikimedia Commons
Sudarshan Crafts Museum in Puri is easily accessible via air, rail, and road
By Air: The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, about 60 km from Puri. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Puri within 1-2 hours.
By Rail: Puri Railway Station is well connected with major Indian cities. The museum is within 2 km of this station and is easily reachable by auto-rickshaw or taxi.
By Road: Puri is connected to Bhubaneswar via NH316 and takes 1.5 hours by car. Regular buses are available from Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and other major towns to Puri. You can take private taxis and rental car too.
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Things To Do At Sudarshan Crafts Museum
Here is a list of some of the best things to do at the crafts museum for history and art lovers.
1. Learn The History
Photo: Institution:President’s Secretariat / Wikimedia Commons
At Sudarshan Crafts Museum you will find the legacy of Padma Bhushan Award winner Shri Sudarshan Sahoo and his sense of dedication towards the artistic riches of Odisha. Here, you can learn how the museum started in 1977 with an aspiration for a centre of traditional skills like stone, wood, and bronze carving.
2. Explore The Handicrafts
Photo: Xopolino / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
You will be awe-struck by the intricate craftsmanship and minute detailing of stone and wood in the galleries of the craft museum. From a god or goddess statue to intricately designed handicraft, every piece speaks of the craftsmanship of the artisans of Odisha. Every specimen tells of the dedication, precision, and cultural importance of the art, a sculpture practised through the ages.
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3. Witness The Artisans At Work
Photo: Sumit Surai / Wikimedia Commons
A visit to the on-site workshop is where one can see the best artisans creating works of art. They sculpt, carve, or mould using old techniques right in front of you. Few opportunities exist to see all types of craftsmanship in action, and one can have a glimpse into how these masterpieces are being created.
Places To Visit Near Sudarshan Crafts Museum
Apart from the museum, there are many other places to visit nearby to enjoy your trip to Puri to the fullest.
1. Jagannath Temple
Photo: Abhishek Barua / Wikimedia Commons
One of India’s most sacred Hindu temples, the Jagannath Temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath who is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. This 12th-century temple was built by King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva. The Chariot Festival, or Rath Yatra, is the temple’s annual event in which three giant chariots carry the deities of Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra around the streets of Puri. The massive Kalinga-style architecture of the temple makes it an architectural wonder, characterised by its massive Shikhara (spire) and magnificent gates.
Things To Do: Explore the architecture, sightseeing, get spiritual blessing
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2. Puri Beach
Photo: Ganesh Mohan T / Wikimedia Commons
Puri Beach, on the Bay of Bengal, is a favourite spot for locals as well as tourists. The beach consists of fine golden sand and peaceful waves; besides these, sunrise and sunset act as other attractions that add charm to the scene. It also hosts the Puri Beach Festival where local artisans show off their handicrafts and the beautiful works of the sand artists that take one’s breath away. You can take camel rides, indulge in seafood delicacies prepared locally, and explore small beachside markets. The beach is a cosy retreat after visiting other cultural attractions around.
Things To Do: Enjoy swimming, building a sand castle, shopping
3. Chilika Lake
Photo: Government of Odisha / Wikimedia Commons
Chilika Lake is one of the biggest brackish water lagoons, covering a stretch of about 1,100 square kilometres. It boasts diverse flora and fauna and is a very important birdwatching site during winter, when flamingos, pelicans, and herons migrate here for roosting. Other must-visit attractions are Nalabana Bird Sanctuary and Kalijai Island. The most peaceful way to view the lake is by boat tours, with further appreciation of wildlife and scenery. This lake is also famous for its Irrawaddy dolphins, which one may occasionally witness during boat rides.
Things To Do: Explore the wildlife, sightseeing, boating, bird watching, hiking, photography
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4. Konark Sun Temple
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
About 35 km from Puri, the Konark Sun Temple is one of the most memorable historical landmarks, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dating back to the 13th century as a gigantic chariot for King Narasimhadeva I, the temple features twelve sets of intricately carved stone wheels upon seven horses-resembling the Sun God himself. This temple is famous for excellent in-depth stone carvings that bring scenes from Hindu mythology, celestial dancers, and animals. Much of the temple is in ruin today, however, the remnants of structure and art are pretty amazing sights into ancient Indian architecture and craftsmanship.
Things To Do: Explore the architecture, sightseeing, get spiritual blessing
5. Raghurajpur Artist Village
Photo: Euphoric Captures / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Raghurajpur is a locality near Puri, where Odisha’s zestful cultural heritage buzzes. Large houses serve both as homes and as workshops for renowned master artisans from Gotipua dance troupes, often depicting the stories of Radha and Krishna. Whatever space is available is utilised by Pattachitra paintings, palm-leaf engravings, wooden toys, or stone carvings. Declared a Heritage Village by the Government of India, Raghurajpur is an opportunity to behold unmatched craftsmanship, enable direct purchase of beautiful handmade products from artisans, preserve centuries-old traditions, and support local livelihoods.
Things To Do: Shopping, sightseeing, photography
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6. Pipili
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
Pipili, about 20 km from Puri, has earned international acclaim based on its ancient appliqué art form. Vibrant lanterns, wall hangings, and umbrellas adorn the town’s streets, all crafted in the applique style, where pieces of coloured fabric are stitched together to depict beautiful patterns. Most of the designs used are mythological and have nature-inspired themes. Pipili is one of the foremost craft centers in Odisha and would be a great place to spend some time browsing through the unique handmade souvenirs on sale.
Things To Do: Shopping, sightseeing, photography
7. Balukhand-Konark Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Kritzolina / Wikimedia Commons
Balukhand-Konark Wildlife Sanctuary is situated between Puri and Konark on the seacoast. It offers picturesque beauty combined with wildlife experience as several species of wildlife such as blackbucks, spotted deer, jackals, and monitor lizards can be spotted here. Quite a few bird species can also be found here. It is all the more attractive as it is located near the beach where one can enjoy both wildlife as well as lovely coastal scenery. It is indeed a haven for any nature lover or wildlife enthusiast.
Things To Do: Explore the wildlife, bird watching, hiking, photography
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Tips For Travellers
Photo: Kumarmavinash / Wikimedia Commons
- Carry some cash, although cards and UPI are widely accepted
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting places like the Jagannath Temple
- Don’t miss the chance to meet the artisans working in the museum’s workshop
- Buying authentic handicrafts helps local artists earn a living while you acquire genuine products
Visiting the Sudarshan Crafts Museum offers a glimpse into the heart of Odisha’s artistic heritage. Whether you are a lover of traditional arts or someone curious to explore the unique offerings of this region, your visit is sure to be both rewarding and inspiring. Book your holiday with TripXL to explore, learn, and behold the beauty of timeless art that celebrates India’s deep roots.
Cover Photo: Kritzolina / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
