The Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra is one of the biggest and most loved festivals in India. It happens every year in Puri, Odisha, and millions of people join to celebrate. This festival is all about Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and his sister Subhadra. They are taken on a special journey in big wooden chariots. If you’re wondering, “When is Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025?” let’s find out in simple words!
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Date of Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025
The Rath Yatra in 2025 will start on June 27, 2025. This is a Friday. The festival lasts for 9 days and ends on July 5, 2025, with the return journey called Bahuda Yatra. The date is based on the Hindu calendar, specifically the second day (Dwitiya Tithi) of the bright half (Shukla Paksha) in the month of Ashadha.
Here’s a quick look at the important dates:
- Akshaya Tritiya (April 30, 2025): The making of the chariots starts.
- Snana Purnima (June 11, 2025): The deities get a special bath with 108 pots of holy water.
- Anavasara (June 12–26, 2025): The deities rest for 15 days after the bath.
- Gundicha Marjana (June 26, 2025): The Gundicha Temple is cleaned for the deities.
- Rath Yatra (June 27, 2025): The main chariot procession begins.
- Hera Panchami (July 1, 2025): Goddess Lakshmi visits Lord Jagannath.
- Bahuda Yatra (July 5, 2025): The deities return to the Jagannath Temple.
- Suna Besha (July 6, 2025): The deities are decorated with gold ornaments.
- Niladri Bijay (July 8, 2025): The deities go back to their main temple.
What is the Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra?
The Rath Yatra is a grand festival where Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra travel from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple, about 3 kilometers away. This journey is like a visit to their aunt’s house. The deities ride on huge chariots pulled by thousands of devotees. It’s a special time because anyone can see the deities, even those who can’t enter the temple on other days.
Each deity has their own chariot:
- Lord Jagannath’s chariot (Nandighosha): 16 wheels, 44.2 feet tall, red and yellow colors.
- Lord Balabhadra’s chariot (Taladhwaja): 14 wheels, 43.3 feet tall.
- Goddess Subhadra’s chariot (Darpadalana): 12 wheels, 42.3 feet tall.
Around 4–5 lakh people visit Puri every year for this festival. The chariots are made new each year using wood from special trees, and no nails or metal parts are used. The construction takes about 2 months, starting on Akshaya Tritiya.
Why is the Rath Yatra Special?
The Rath Yatra is not just a festival; it’s a celebration of love, unity, and faith. Here’s why it matters:
- Spiritual Belief: People believe pulling the chariot ropes cleanses sins and brings blessings. It’s said that seeing the deities during the Yatra can bring good luck for the whole year.
- Equality for All: The festival is open to everyone, no matter their caste, religion, or background. This makes it a symbol of unity.
- Special Rituals: The King of Puri sweeps the chariots with a golden broom in a ritual called Chhera Panhara. It shows that everyone is equal before God.
Fun Facts About the Rath Yatra
- The Jagannath Temple is one of the four holy Char Dham pilgrimage sites in India.
- Over 1 million devotees, including people from other countries, join the festival each year.
- The chariots are pulled using ropes that are 50 meters long.
- During the 9-day festival, the deities stay at the Gundicha Temple for 7 days.
How to Plan Your Visit for Rath Yatra 2025?
If you want to join the Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025, here are some tips:
- Travel to Puri: You can reach Puri by train (Puri Railway Station), by air (Bhubaneswar Airport, 60 km away), or by road (buses or taxis).
- Book Early: With millions of visitors, hotels and transport get full quickly.
- Follow Rules: Respect local traditions and follow crowd guidelines for a safe experience.
- Best Spot: Try to be near the Bada Danda (Grand Road) to see the chariots clearly.
In 2025, special arrangements are being made for safety. The Odisha government plans to use 365 special trains to bring devotees to Puri. They will also use drones and AI cameras to keep the festival safe and smooth.
Why You Should Join the Rath Yatra 2025
The Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra is more than a religious event—it’s a way to feel connected to others and to God. The sight of huge chariots, the sound of devotional songs, and the energy of millions of devotees make it an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a devotee or just curious, mark your calendar for June 27, 2025, and be part of this amazing festival in Puri!
FAQs About Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025
1. What is the exact date of Rath Yatra 2025?
The Rath Yatra starts on June 27, 2025, and ends with the Bahuda Yatra on July 5, 2025.
2. Who can join the Rath Yatra?
Anyone can join, no matter their religion, caste, or nationality. It’s open to all devotees and visitors.
3. How far is the journey during the Rath Yatra?
The deities travel about 3 kilometers from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple.
4. Can I pull the chariot ropes?
Yes, devotees are allowed to pull the ropes of the chariots, which is considered a holy act.
5. How many people visit the Rath Yatra?
Around 4–5 lakh people visit Puri daily during the festival, with over 1 million total attendees.
6. Is photography allowed during the Rath Yatra?
Yes, you can take photos of the chariots and procession, but follow temple rules and avoid restricted areas.
7. What should I wear during the festival?
Wear comfortable, traditional clothes like kurta or saree, and avoid heavy jewelry due to the crowd.
8. Are there any special trains for Rath Yatra 2025?
Yes, the Odisha government will run 365 special trains to help devotees travel to Puri.
Jai Jagannath!