About 15 km east of Puri, Beleswar, also known as Baleshwar, is popular for its beach and Shaivite shrine. Watching the sunrise and sunset is a popular tourist activity.
The Beleswar Beach is a major attraction for newlywed couples who come to the beach as it is less crowded and to pray at the Shiva temple.
The town of Beleswar is known for its religious sanctity and its natural splendour. The Mahashivaratri festival is celebrated with great fervour at the temple and is visited by thousands of devotees during the festival.
Sunbathing, swimming and water sports are popular ways to spend time on the beach. The beach is relatively free of hawkers.
The beach is located at the mouth of Nuanai River and the sight of the river draining into Bay of Bengal is spectacular. Being less than four km off the Puri Konark Marine Drive Road, the beach is easily accessible.
The beach and the forest cover that stretches all along the beach provides a good place to relax as you watch the sea lash at the shore and calmly recede.
WHERE TO STAY
The best options of accommodation are all towards the city of Puri. There are many budget hotels found near Balighai and on Konark Road. Mid-range hotels are clustered near Beleswar Temple Road, VIP Road, Clarke Road and Red Cross Road. Luxury hotels are mostly located on Chakra Tirtha Road.
WHERE TO EAT
Shacks and restaurants near the beach on the Beleswar Temple Road serve vegetarian dishes. North Indian, South Indian, Punjabi and Chinese cuisine is available near the beach.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The best time to visit is between January and March.
The average minimum and maximum temperature of Puri is as given below. The best time to visit Puri is also specified.