Darshan of Shree Jagannatha Mahaprabhu is available almost all day, from early morning until late at night.
In general, the temple opens and darshan begins around 5.30 a.m. After the perpetual lamp (Mangal Arati) is offered, devotees are allowed entry up to Jagamohan (Bhitar Kaatha) of the temple, and darshan is available from this point until the completion of “Besha” (approximately 7.30 / 8 A.M.). Darshan of Shree Jagannatha Mahaprabhu is not available for 1 hour and 15 minutes after completion of Besha (roughly from 8 a.m. to 9.15 a.m.), i.e. for Gopal Ballava Puja.
Devotees can receive darshan from Naatamandir (Baahaar Kaatha) following Gopal Ballav Puja until Sakaala Dhoopa Puja is finished (approximately up to 11 A.M.). Devotees are permitted admission up to Jagamohan until “Bhoga Mandap Puja” is completed following the conclusion of Sakaal Dhoopa (approximately up to 1 P.M.). Between the hours of two and five thirty, darshan is also offered close to Bhitar Kaath / Jagamohan, that is, from the conclusion of the Madhyanha Dhoop ritual to the conclusion of the Sandhya Aalati ritual and from the conclusion of the Sandhya Dhoopa ritual to the conclusion of the Chandan Laagi ritual (approximately from 8 P.M. to 9 P.M.).
The main entrance to the temple, the Lion’s Gate or Eastern Gate, and the “Kirtan Chakadaa” (inner court yard) contain barricades to help pilgrims receive darshan without difficulty and to manage crowds. The three other gates are used by devotees as exit points. Only the “Lions Gate” provides access to the temple. With identification, officials, sevaks, and residents of Puri town can pass through any gate.