Jagannath Rath Yatra

One of the most important Hindu festivals celebrated in Puri, Odisha is the Jagannath Rath Yatra, sometimes known as Puri Rath Yatra or Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra. This festival attracts millions of visitors and devotees from all over the world every year. 

Lord Jagannatha, his brother Balabhadra and his sister Subhadra are the three deities who are ritually paraded through the streets of Puri on three great chariots or "chariots" on their journey. This event represents the birthplace of Lord Jagannath every year, as it marks the journey of deities from Jagannath temple to Gundicha temple.

Devotees pull elaborately decorated chariots with elaborate designs and vibrant colours as a thoughtful ritual to offer them wishes and blessings are given Many paintings, photos and images capturing the essence of this grand event capture the colourful skies, the dedication of the people and the majesty of the chariots. 

These celebrations highlight the spiritual significance and cultural diversity of the festival. There are many different Puri Holiday Packages for anyone who wants to experience this phenomenon. These packages provide a comprehensive understanding of the festival and the holy city, often including accommodation, guided tours and the opportunity to go on a carriage tour Cultural tour or spiritual adventure fulfilment The Jagannatha Yatra in Puri is an opportunity not to be missed.

Points to Remember

Timings of Aarti: Mangala Aarti at around 5:00 AM, Sandhya Aarti in the evening, and "Rosa Homa" in the late evening.

Duration: The Jagannath Rath Yatra typically lasts for about 10 days. 

Best Time to Visit: The Rath Yatra usually occurs in June or July, depending on the lunar calendar. 

Prasad Timings: The temple offers prasad (sacred food) to devotees at specific times throughout the day. During the Rath Yatra, prasad distribution is managed carefully to accommodate the large number of visitors. It's advisable to check the temple’s schedule for precise timings.

Tips For Visiting Jagannath Rath Yatra 

Since the Yatra is attended by huge masses of people every year, one should keep track of their belongings and keep some food packets as well as water bottles handy.

The crowds here can get overwhelming, so keep safe and be careful of how you navigate here.

How to Reach

By Air: The nearest airport is the Biju Patnaik International Airport at Bhubaneswar, about 60 km from Puri. You can take a train or bus from the airport to Puri, or you can hire a taxi. 

By Train: Kolkata, Delhi, Chennai, and all other major cities are easily accessible from the main railway station at Puri. Several express and ultra-fast trains stop at Puri. Check train schedules and buy tickets well in advance.

By road: Cities like Bhubaneswar and Puri are connected by roads. Puri and Bhubaneswar are connected by National Highway 316. Public transport services, private taxis and buses are available. 

Local Transportation: Take an autorickshaw, bike rickshaw or taxi to Puri Jagannath Temple and Rath Yatra site in Puri.