One of the oldest religious festivals in India, Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra 2025 is here! Hindu devotees are waiting for this auspicious festival with great spirituality and enthusiasm. Here are the key details of this sacred festival, including Rath Yatra 2025 dates, auspicious time, and more. Take a look.
Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025: Nine-Day Schedule
The Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025 unfolds over nine sacred days of vibrant rituals and grand celebrations. Devotees from across India and the world gather to witness Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra journeying in their majestic chariots from the Jagannath Temple to Gundicha Temple. Each day holds unique ceremonies, including the chariot pulling, special prayers, and cultural performances, making this festival a profound spiritual experience steeped in tradition and devotion.
| Occasion | Date |
| Anasara/Anavasara | June 13 to June 26 |
| Gundicha Marjana | June 26 |
| Rath Yatra | June 27 |
| Hera Panchami | July 1 |
| Bahuda Yatra | July 4 |
This nine-day celebration will kick start on June 27 with the grand Rath Yatra and will conclude with Niladri Bijay on July 5, 2025.
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Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra 2025
This Rath Yatra is also known as the ‘Chariot Festival’ in English. Basically, it is a major Hindu festival celebrated annually in the city of Jagannath Puri in Odisha and gains numerous followers from all around the country. This event is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu and his siblings, Balarama (Balabhadra) and Subhadra (sister). Devotees call it by various names as one’s faith, including Jagannath Rath Yatra, Ratha Yatra (Puri), Shree Gundicha Yatra or simply Ratha Jatra in Odia in various parts of the country. Names might be different, but the meaning remains the same. As per the sacred book of Skanda Purana, it is believed that Lord Hari rides his chariot to Gundicha Temple to fulfil his divine promise.
Official temple site: https://www.shreejagannatha.in/
Significance of Puri Ratha Yatra
Lord Jagannath’s Temple in Puri is one of the Char Dham and among the most sacred temples in South India. The Rath Yatra in Puri is a symbolic journey of Lord Jagannath from his temple to the Gundicha Temple, representing a royal visit to his aunt’s home. As one of the most important festivals in India, Rath Yatra is a grand celebration that attracts millions of devotees to participate in pulling huge chariots. It is believed that doing so cleanses sins and brings divine blessings to devotees’ lives.
Puri Rath Yatra 2025: Date and Timings
Ratha Yatra is celebrated on Dwitiya Tithi, the second day of the bright phase (Shukla Paksha) of the lunar month as per the traditional Hindu calendar. This time is considered highly spiritual because of the increasing brightness of the moon. For the current year, Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025 date falls on Friday, June 27.
As per Drik Panchang, a Hindu calendar, auspicious timings for the Jagannath Rath Yatra are as follows:
- Dwitiya Tithi begins at 1:24 PM on June 26, 2025
- Dwitiya Tithi ends at 11:19 AM on June 27, 2025
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History of Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra
Jagannath Rath Yatra traces its roots back between the 12th and 16th centuries and is linked with both mythology and historical tradition. It was the time when the holy Jagannath Temple was established. During this nine-day yatra, Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra are taken on a 3-kilometre journey from the Jagannath Temple in Puri to the Gundicha Temple. This temple is considered the birthplace of Lord Jagannath, and he visits there during the Rath Yatra. Gundicha Temple is one of the most divine places to visit in South India, especially during the Rath Yatra.
Some legends also connect this festival to King Indradyumna, who is believed to have constructed the first Jagannath Temple. He is primarily known for his devotion to Lord Vishnu as per Hindu scriptures.
Some also claim that Lord Krishna expressed a wish to visit his birthplace once every year with his family during the Dvapara Yuga. Following his wish, this festival is celebrated in Puri every year. Many renowned acharyas or saints like Adi Shankaracharya, Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, Ramanujacharya, and others have visited Jagannath Puri and admired the significance of this divine festival.r
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What Makes Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra 2025 Special?
During the Rath Yatra (Puri) 2025, Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are taken in a grand celebration on the beautifully decorated wooden chariots (Raths) from Jagannath Temple to Gundicha Temple. Attending this Chariot Festival and pulling the massive chariots are considered the best things to do in India by pilgrims and every devotee wants to experience it at least once in a lifetime. If you also want to be a part of this religious festival, you can browse through our various Puri tour packages and attend this festival. Let’s talk about what makes Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra 2025 extra special:
- Rath Snana: It is a sacred bathing ceremony in which deities are cleaned using 108 pots of holy water.
- Chariot Pulling: Devotees from all over the world pull the enormous wooden chariots of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra.
- Chhera Pahanra: The Gajapati King of Puri sweeps the chariots, symbolizing equality before God.
- Gundicha Temple Stay: All the deities stay at the Gundicha Temple for 7 days and then return to the Jagannath Puri Mandir on Bahuda Yatra.
- Pahandi: The deities are carried in a procession (Pahandi) from the temple to their respective chariots.
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Names of All the Chariots of the Jagannath Puri Temple
The three chariots in the Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra are named as –
- Nandighosha: It is the name of the Lord Jagannath’s chariot. It is a large, decorated chariot with sixteen wheels and is adorned with red and yellow cloth.
- Taladhwaja: It is Balabhadra’s chariot and has 14 wheels. It is also known as Haladhwaja or Langaladhwaja and is covered in green and red fabric.
- Darpadalana: Also known as Devadalana or Padmadhwaja, this chariot is for Devi Subhadra. It has 12 wheels and is decorated in red and black colors.
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Rituals That Breathe Life into the Festival
The Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra is a meticulously orchestrated series of sacred rituals, each imbued with deep spiritual meaning:
- Rath Snana: A ceremonial bathing of the deities using 108 pots of holy water, signifying purification.
- Anasara/Anavasara: Following Rath Snana, the deities enter a period of seclusion, believed to be a time of convalescence.
- Pahandi: The majestic procession where the idols are carried from the temple to their respective chariots amidst chants and music.
- Chhera Pahanra: A unique ritual where the Gajapati King of Puri, a symbol of humility, sweeps the chariots with a golden broom and sprinkles sandalwood water.
- Chariot Pulling: The heart of the festival, where millions of devotees eagerly participate in pulling the colossal chariots, a deeply spiritual act believed to bring immense blessings.
- Gundicha Temple Stay: The deities reside at the Gundicha Temple for seven days, engaging in various rituals and festivities.
- Bahuda Yatra: The return journey of the deities to the Jagannath Temple. On this journey, they pause at the Mausimaa Temple, their aunt’s home, where they are offered “Poda Pitha,” a traditional baked cake.
- Suna Besha: After returning to the main temple, the deities are adorned in opulent gold ornaments, a dazzling display of divine richness.
- Niladri Bijay: The final ritual, where the deities re-enter the sanctum sanctorum of the Jagannath Temple. This playful yet meaningful tradition includes a charming divine drama where Goddess Lakshmi, initially miffed by Lord Jagannath’s absence, is appeased with offerings like the famous Rasagola.
Do’s for Jagannath Rath Yatra Visitors:
- Dress Modestly: Wear comfortable, light, and modest clothes. Traditional attire like sarees or salwar suits for women, and dhotis and towels for men, are preferred, especially if you plan to enter the main temple premises (note: only orthodox Hindus are allowed inside the Jagannath Temple itself).
- Stay Hydrated: Puri in June-July is hot and humid. Carry water bottles, electrolyte drinks, or ORS to prevent dehydration.
- Arrive Early: The crowds are massive. Arrive well in advance to secure a good viewing spot for the procession and to navigate the area without too much rush.
- Be Patient and Cooperative: Expect large crowds and potential delays. Cooperate with police and volunteers, and maintain calm.
- Follow Traffic and Security Advisories: The authorities implement extensive traffic and security measures. Adhere to all guidelines, designated parking areas, and shuttle services to ensure a smooth experience. No drones are allowed near the Yatra route.
- Use Public Transport/Shuttles: Due to vehicle-free zones and limited parking, it’s highly advisable to use public transport and the shuttle services provided by the administration from parking hubs.
- Protect Valuables: Due to the large crowds, pickpocketing can be a risk. Carry only essential items and keep your belongings secure.
- Respect Customs and Traditions: The Rath Yatra is a deeply religious event. Observe local customs, maintain silence inside the temple premises (if allowed to enter), and refrain from any disrespectful behavior.
- Consider Booking Accommodation in Advance: Puri sees a massive influx of visitors during the Rath Yatra. Book your hotel or guesthouse well in advance.
- Try the Mahaprasad: Don’t miss the opportunity to taste the divine Mahaprasad (sacred food offering) at Ananda Bazaar inside the temple premises. Also, try local delicacies like Poda Pitha.
- Utilize Technology: The Odisha government might offer a dedicated app (like the “Shree Jagannatha Dham app” mentioned in past years) for live updates, darshan queues, navigation, and other helpful information.
- Carry a Basic First-Aid Kit: Include essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medications. Medical facilities are usually available near the temple.
Don’ts for Jagannath Rath Yatra Visitors:
- Don’t Touch Deities or Sacred Structures: Do not attempt to touch the idols, the Ratnavedi (altar), or any other sacred structures inside the temple. Offer prayers respectfully from a distance.
- Don’t Bring Prohibited Items into the Temple: Mobile phones, cameras, electronic gadgets, leather articles (like belts, wallets, bags), arms, and ammunition are strictly prohibited inside the Jagannath Temple premises. Locker facilities are available.
- Don’t Consume Liquor or Intoxicants: Consumption of alcohol, smoking, chewing tobacco, or any other intoxicants is strictly prohibited within the temple premises and in the surrounding areas (a 2-3 km radius around the temple has restrictions on alcohol and non-vegetarian food).
- Don’t Carry Non-Vegetarian Food: Do not bring non-vegetarian or other cooked food items inside the temple.
- Don’t Litter or Pollute: Maintain the cleanliness and sanctity of the temple premises and surrounding areas. Use designated dustbins.
- Don’t Pay for Entry: There is no entry fee to the Jagannath Temple or the Rath Yatra. Do not pay money to anyone claiming to provide special access. Donate only in authorized hundis (donation boxes).
- Don’t Engage in Arguments or Confrontations: Maintain decorum and avoid any disputes with other devotees or temple staff.
- Don’t Touch Animals: Be aware of monkeys, but avoid touching or feeding them.
- Don’t Enter the Main Temple if Not an Orthodox Hindu: As per tradition and signs at the entrance, only orthodox Hindus are allowed inside the main Jagannath Temple. However, during the Rath Yatra, when the deities are on their chariots, people of all faiths can have their darshan.
- Don’t Ignore Warnings or Instructions: Pay attention to public announcements, police instructions, and signage for your safety and convenience.
By keeping these guidelines in mind, you can have a truly blessed and memorable experience at the Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra 2025.
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Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra 2025 – FAQ’s
Q1. What is Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra?
Annually held at the city of Puri in Odisha, it is a ceremonial procession in which Lord Jagannath along with his siblings, Balabhadra and Subhadra are carried from Jagannath Temple to Gundicha Temple within a span of 9 days.
Q2. What makes Jagannath Rath Yatra so powerful?
The Rath Yatra is considered powerful due to the immense devotion of millions of followers, the belief that participating cleanses sins and brings divine blessings, and its deep roots in Hindu mythology and tradition. The energy generated by the collective faith and effort of pulling the chariots is often described as spiritually profound.
Q3. What is the date of Puri Rath Yatra 2025?
The Puri Rath Yatra 2025 date falls on Friday, June 27.
Q4. Why is Rath Yatra celebrated?
Rath Yatra is celebrated to commemorate Lord Jagannath’s annual visit to Gundicha Temple, which is considered his birthplace or his aunt’s home. It signifies a royal journey and is believed to fulfill Lord Hari’s divine promise as per Skanda Purana. It is also linked to Lord Krishna’s wish to visit his birthplace annually with his family.
Q5. Where can I watch the live telecast of Shri Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra?
Typically, the live telecast of the Shri Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra is available on major national news channels in India (like DD National, OTV) and various spiritual and cultural channels. You can also often find live streams on official temple websites or religious streaming platforms.
Q6. Is Jagannath Rath Yatra only celebrated in Puri?
While the most prominent and historically significant Jagannath Rath Yatra is celebrated in Puri, Odisha, it is also celebrated worldwide by ISKCON and in various other locations across India and globally, often on a smaller scale, following the example of Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.
Q7. What is the route of Puri Jagannath Temple Rath Yatra?
The deities are taken on a 3-kilometre journey from the Jagannath Temple in Puri to the Gundicha Temple.
Q8. What is Lord Jagannath’s Rath name?
Lord Jagannath’s chariot is named Nandighosha.
Conclusion
The Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra 2025 is more than a festival—it is a living tradition that embodies India’s timeless faith and cultural richness. Whether you join as a pilgrim or a curious traveler, the experience of standing among the surging crowds, watching the chariots roll forward amid chants and drums, is unforgettable. This is a celebration where divinity touches everyday life, reminding all who witness it of the enduring power of devotion and community.
