Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025 will be celebrated on 29th June in the sacred city of Puri, Odisha. It is one of India’s biggest and most special festivals, where Lord Jagannath, along with his brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra, comes out of the temple and travels to the Gundicha Temple in huge, beautifully decorated chariots.
Every year, millions of devotees gather to pull these giant wooden chariots with ropes, singing and chanting in joy. People believe that pulling the chariots or even seeing the deities brings peace, happiness, and blessings. The entire city turns into a colorful celebration with music, dance, and devotion all around.
Jagannath Rath Yatra is not just a religious event—it is a festival of love, unity, and tradition. It welcomes everyone, whether you are a believer, a tourist, or someone curious about Indian culture. In 2025, be a part of this grand journey and feel the powerful energy of faith as the Lord rides among his people.
Date, Time, & Venue of Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025
Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra is one of the largest religious congregations, spanning 9 days. Instead of devotees visiting the Lord to seek his blessings, the Lord himself comes out of his sanctum to bless the believers. This annual chariot festival begins on the Dwitiya tithi in the Ashadha Shukla Paksha and continues for the next 11 days. The Jagannath Yatra 2025 in Odisha will begin on 27 June with the magnificent Puri festival.
Jagannath Rath Yatra History
The origin of Jagannath Rath Yatra dates back to the 12th century. Its detailed account can be found in Hindu sacred texts such as Padma Purana, Brahma Purana, and Skanda Purana. As per the legend, on this day, Lord Jagannath went to Gundicha Temple via the home of his maternal aunt (now Mausi Maa Temple).
Lord Jagannath, however, did not go there alone, he visited there with his sister Subhadra and elder brother Balabhadra. The day is now celebrated every year with a Jagannath Rath Yatra where the Lord’s idol is seated on the chariot along with his two siblings. The grand procession that takes place has a huge significance all over India. Thus, rath yatra history dates back to ancient times.
Major Attractions Of Jagannath Rath Yatra
Rath Yatra in Jagannath Temple Puri is one of the most-awaited religious festivals in India. It draws a large number of devotees from all over the world who seek blessings from the Holy Trinity, Lord Jagannath, Lord Balbhadra, and Goddess Subhadra. It is a very rare gesture of divinity where Gods themselves come out from their sanctum to shower blessings on their devotees and mingle with them all. The major attractions of Jagannath Rath Yatra worth mentioning are-
1. Grand Chariot Procession
The main highlight of the festival is the pulling of the massive, beautifully decorated wooden chariots of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra. Devotees from all over the world gather to pull the ropes, which is considered a sacred act.
2. Pahandi Ceremony
This is the grand procession where the idols of the three deities are brought out of the Jagannath Temple and placed onto their respective chariots. The rhythmic beats of drums, conch shells, and chants create a powerful spiritual atmosphere.
3. Chhera Pahanra Ritual
The King of Puri, dressed as a humble servant, sweeps the chariots with a golden broom. This unique ritual shows that in the eyes of God, everyone is equal, no matter their status.
4. Journey to Gundicha Temple
The deities travel about 3 km to the Gundicha Temple, where they stay for 7 days. This journey symbolizes Lord Jagannath’s visit to his birthplace and his love for all devotees.
5. Return Journey (Bahuda Yatra)
After their stay, the deities return to the Jagannath Temple in another grand procession, marking the conclusion of the festival with as much excitement as the start.
6. Cultural Programs and Festivities
Throughout the Rath Yatra period, Puri is filled with devotional music, traditional dances, food stalls, and spiritual gatherings, creating a festive and joyful environment for all.
How To Reach Puri to Attend Rath Yatra
The Jagannath Rath Yatra is performed in Puri city of Odisha. It is mainly famous as one of the Char Dhams – Jagannath Temple. Puri attracts a lot of visitors all through the year but the numbers swell to an extraordinary extent during the annual chariot festival. The city is well-connected with different parts of the country and has diverse modes of transportation. Have a look at different transport options that will take you to this magnificent city.
- Nearest Major City. Bhubaneshwar
- Nearest Airport. Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneshwar
- Nearest Railway Station. Puri Railway Station
- Distance from Bhubaneshwar. 58 km
By Air. The nearest airport to reach Jagannath Puri Temple for the famous annual Rath Yatra is Biju Patnaik Airport. Many domestic and international tourists arrive at the destination to enjoy the magnificent temple, colourful festivals, heritage sites, architectural marvels, and more of Puri. Hire a taxi or a cab to arrive at the destination.
- Distance from Biju Patnaik Airport. 58 km
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By Train. There is good connectivity of train routes from Puri Railway Station to all parts of the country. Puri has ten railway stations in all but the nearest one to reach Jagannath Temple is Puri Railway Station. Tourists can take a cab or an auto to the destination from the Railway Station.
- Distance from Puri Railway Station. 1.3 km
By Road. You can consider traveling to Puri by road, depending on your geographical location. The overall road network, including national highways, is well-maintained and easily accessible. As per your convenience, you can choose to travel by state-run buses, cabs, or your personal vehicles.
- Distance From Konark. 38 km via Puri-Konark Marine Dr
- Distance From Bhubaneswar. 69 km via Badshahi Rd/Cuttack - Puri Bypass Rd
- Distance From Balasore. 252 km via NH16
- Distance From Rourkela. 400 km via Badakera - Cuttack Rd
- Distance From Raipur. 581 km via NH53
- Distance From Kharagpur. 395 km via NH16
- Distance From Delhi. 1725 km
- Distance From Bengaluru. 1456 km
- Distance From Mumbai. 1701 km
- Distance From Kolkata. 499 km
Conclusion
Get ready to experience sheer spirituality on Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025 with your friends and family. Seek divine blessings of Lord Krishna and learn more about the deep-embedded ethics, learnings, and rituals. Book now with adotrip.com and experience seamless travel like no other!
Frequently Asked Questions About Rath Yatra
Q1. What is Rath Yatra and why is it celebrated?
A1. Rath Yatra is a major Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Jagannath, celebrated in Puri, Odisha. It marks the annual journey of Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra, from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple in grand chariots (raths). It symbolizes the Lord’s visit to his devotees and is a celebration of devotion and unity.
Q2. When is Rath Yatra 2025?
A2. Rath Yatra 2025 will be celebrated on 29th June, which falls on the Dwitiya Tithi (second day) of the bright fortnight of the Hindu month of Ashadha.
Q3. Where is the main Rath Yatra held?
A3. The most famous Rath Yatra takes place in Puri, Odisha, attracting millions of devotees from India and around the world. However, similar celebrations are also held in cities like Ahmedabad, Kolkata, and international locations with Jagannath temples.
Q4. What are the main attractions of Rath Yatra?
A4. Key attractions include the pulling of the massive decorated chariots through the streets, the ceremonial rituals at the Jagannath and Gundicha Temples, devotional singing, dancing, and a festive atmosphere filled with joy and spiritual energy.
Q5. Can tourists participate in Rath Yatra?
A5. Yes, tourists and devotees from all over the world are welcome to witness and even participate in pulling the chariots. It’s considered a highly auspicious act and a unique way to experience India’s rich spiritual heritage.
