Photo by Dilip Poddar on Unsplash
Location
Puri, Odisha
Duration
9–11 days
Frequency
Annual
Language
["Odia","Hindi","English"]
Upcoming confirmed & estimated dates
2026
16 Jul – 24 Jul
Rath Yatra in Puri, Odisha, is a Hindu religious festival where the deities Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra journey in massive, newly constructed wooden chariots. This annual event attracts millions of devotees and tourists to Puri's Grand Road (Bada Danda) as the chariots travel from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple, a 3-kilometer route. The festival is distinctive for its scale and unique rituals like Chhera Pahanra, performed by the King of Puri. It offers a rare opportunity for non-Hindus to witness the deities, who are otherwise housed within the temple's inner sanctum. This celebration has roots deep in Odia history and mythology, signifying the deities' annual visit to their aunt's home. Pilgrims, cultural enthusiasts, and photographers would find the event compelling.
What to experience at this festival
Travel Tips
Book your accommodation and travel to Puri at least 3-6 months in advance. Hotels sell out quickly, and prices are significantly inflated (3-5 times the usual rate) during the Rath Yatra period.
Carry sufficient water, wear light cotton clothing, and use sunscreen due to the high humidity and heat, especially in June and July. Staying hydrated is crucial amidst large crowds.
While UPI is common, carry some cash for small vendors or in areas with network issues, especially given the immense crowd density during the festival.
Restrictions
Access to the inner sanctum of the main Jagannath Temple is restricted to Hindus. Non-Hindus can view the deities from outside the temple precincts or during the Rath Yatra procession.
During the main procession days, the Grand Road (Bada Danda) and surrounding areas in Puri become extremely crowded, leading to road closures and restricted vehicle movement. Expect to walk considerable distances.
