🚩 Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025 – Date, History, Rituals & Travel Guide to Puri, Odisha
Published by: Vizzve Culture | Updated: May 2025
Category: Indian Festivals | Spiritual Tourism | Hindu Traditions
📅 When is Jagannath Rath Yatra in 2025?
🛕 Date: Monday, July 7, 2025
📍 Location: Puri, Odisha (main celebration), also in Ahmedabad, Kolkata, and other cities.
🙏 What is Jagannath Rath Yatra?
Jagannath Rath Yatra is one of India’s oldest and most iconic Hindu festivals. It celebrates Lord Jagannath’s annual journey with his siblings, Balabhadra and Subhadra, from the Jagannath Temple to Gundicha Temple in grand, hand-pulled wooden chariots.
It's not just a religious event—it's a cultural spectacle with devotion, music, chants, and millions of participants.
🌟 Highlights of Rath Yatra in Puri
🎠 Three Grand Chariots:
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Nandighosa (Jagannath) – 45.6 ft tall, 16 wheels
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Taladhwaja (Balabhadra) – 45 ft, 14 wheels
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Darpadalana (Subhadra) – 44.6 ft, 12 wheels
Each is hand-pulled by lakhs of devotees chanting “Jai Jagannath!”
👑 Gajapati King's Ritual
The King of Puri performs the Chhera Pahanra, a symbolic sweeping of the chariot decks—an act of humility and devotion.
🔁 Return Journey (Bahuda Yatra)
Takes place 9 days later. The deities return to the Jagannath Temple after visiting their aunt’s place at Gundicha Temple.
📸 Why It’s Globally Famous
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UNESCO-recognized heritage practices
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Covered by global media (BBC, National Geographic)
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Crores watch live on TV and YouTube
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Foreign devotees also join ISKCON-organized yatras worldwide
🧳 Travel Tips for Rath Yatra 2025
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🚂 How to Reach Puri: Via Bhubaneswar Airport (60 km) or Puri Railway Station
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🏨 Where to Stay: Book hotels near Marine Drive Road or Grand Road (Book early – massive crowds)
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👕 What to Carry: Cotton clothes, water bottles, power bank, basic meds
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📵 What to Avoid: Don’t wear leather items, avoid valuables, beware of pickpockets
📜 Mythological Significance
As per Skanda Purana, Lord Krishna (Jagannath) once expressed a desire to visit his birthplace Mathura. Symbolically, Rath Yatra represents this divine travel. The chariot ride allows even non-Hindus and those barred from entering the temple to see and worship the deities on the streets.
❓ FAQs – Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025
Q1. Is entry allowed into Jagannath Temple for foreigners?
➡️ No. Non-Hindus are not permitted inside the temple. However, they can attend and even pull the chariot during Rath Yatra.
Q2. Can anyone pull the chariot?
➡️ Yes. It is believed to be a highly auspicious act. People from all walks of life can participate.
Q3. What is the significance of chariot pulling?
➡️ Symbolizes unity, devotion, and the soul’s journey toward salvation.
Q4. How many people attend the festival?
➡️ Over 10 lakh (1 million+) people attend in Puri annually.
Q5. Is Rath Yatra celebrated outside Odisha?
➡️ Yes, in cities like Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Delhi, and even in New York, London, and Singapore through ISKCON temples.
🕉️ Final Thought:
Rath Yatra isn’t just a celebration—it’s a spiritual movement.
Join the divine journey, feel the devotion, and witness India’s cultural unity.
👉 Plan your trip early and experience this once-in-a-lifetime spectacle.