Puri: The sacred Gundicha Temple, closely linked to the world-famous Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath, is set to reopen to devotees on December 1 after remaining closed for nearly six years. The decision was announced by SJTA Deputy Chief Administrator and Puri District Collector Dibya Jyoti Parida, followed by detailed guidelines issued by SJTA Chief Administrator Arabinda K. Padhee.
The temple will reopen on a trial basis, introducing a ticketed darshan system priced at ₹10 per person. Entry will be free for children below 5 years, devotees above 80 years, and persons with disabilities. The temple will remain open daily from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., with winter timings (November to February) restricted to 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Devotees will enter and exit through Singhadwar, with a ramp facility provided for divyang visitors. Mobile and shoe deposit services will be free of cost.
Preparations are underway to ensure smooth darshan, and the reopening will be monitored as per the Standard Operating Procedures. During the Rath Yatra period, the temple will remain closed from Chandan Yatra to Niladri Bije due to ritualistic requirements.
The managing committee is expected to review and assess the arrangement after reopening, marking a significant moment for devotees as the revered temple welcomes visitors once again.
