How do you reach Puri to participate in this grand celebration of Rathyatra?
Puri is well-connected by roads and railways from and to the nearest state capital, Bhubaneswar.
Railway: Even the East Coast Railway arranged more than 300 special Rathyatra trains, reserved and unreserved, for the convenience of pilgrimages. To get the list of Puri Rathyatra special trains, please click here.
Roadway: From the state-of-the-art Bermunda Bus Stand, now known as Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Bus Terminal (BSABT), you can get a bus to Puri.
Come and Celebrate the Grand Festival of Odisha: Rath Yatra
You can experience the grandness of Rathyatra at Puri, home of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra. Every year, deities go on their celestial journey in a chariot to see the goodness of their devotees. This vibrating spectacle is joyful to see because of the captivating devotion and the rhythmic chanting of hymns.
In a sea of humanity with alight faces of anticipation, the three majestic chariots, crafted with meticulous care and adorned with intricate carvings and flamboyant cloth, are pulled by the devotees with joyous energy. This is the Rathyatra, also known as the chariot festival, a celebration steeped in ancient tradition and meaningful mythological stories.
As the day dawns, the air hums with rhythmic chants and is filled with the fragrance of incense. The ceremonial rituals begin, and the deities are lovingly welcomed by the priests onto their respective chariots. An enchanting energy surges through the throng as the king himself sweeps the chariots clean, symbolizing humility and service.
Lakhs and lakhs of devotees indulge in joyous chants, their hands reaching out to grasp the massive ropes tethered to the chariots. The chariots begin to move, a testament to the collective faith and fervor of the devotees. The Rathyatra is more than just a procession; it's a phenomenal celebration of faith and unity in the almighty. As the chariots lumber through the streets, they become a focal point for celebration. Devotees shower the deities with flowers and offerings, their voices rising in a harmonious chorus of devotion.
The journey to the Gundicha temple, the chariots' destination, is a symbolic one. It represents Lord Jagannath's annual visit to his aunt, a heartwarming display of divine kinship. It transcends social barriers, bringing people together in a shared experience of faith and joyful abandon.
The Rathyatra is an experience that will leave a lasting impression. It's a celebration of life, faith, and the enduring power of tradition. So, if you ever have the opportunity to witness this magnificent festival, don't hesitate. Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors, the infectious energy, and the spirit of oneness that define the Rathyatra. It's a journey you won't forget.
List of premium hotels in Puri
Sterling Puri, Hotel Seagull, Hotel Sonar Bangla Puri, Swosti Premium Beach Resorts Puri, Empires Hotel Puri, Pramod Convention & Beach Resort Puri, Mayfair Heritage Puri, Hotel Golden Palace Puri, and Seven Hills Hotels.