Top 10 Things to Do During Jagannath Rath Yatra

The Jagannath Rath Yatra is one of the biggest and most loved festivals in India. It is celebrated every year in Puri, Odisha, and people from all over the world come to take part in it. This festival is not just a religious event—it is a grand celebration filled with devotion, colors, emotions, and cultural traditions.

If you are planning to visit the Jagannath Rath Yatra in India, you are in for a beautiful experience. But to enjoy it fully, you should know what things to do, what to see, and how to make the most of your time there. In this blog, we will guide you through the top 10 things to do during Jagannath Rath Yatra. This article will help you understand everything, even if it’s your first visit.

1. Start with Planning Your Travel – Check IndiaVisa Status

Before you even begin your journey to India, make sure your travel documents are ready. If you are visiting from another country, you must check your IndiaVisa Status. It is very important because you cannot enter India without a valid visa. If you haven’t applied yet, you can easily Submit India Visa Online through the official website. This will save you time and help avoid any last-minute issues.

2. Reach Before the Main Day of Rath Yatra

The Jagannath Rath Yatra usually takes place in the months of June or July. But the preparations start weeks in advance. If you can, reach Puri a few days early. You will get to witness the smaller rituals and temple activities that are just as beautiful as the main event. Watching the people prepare the chariots, decorate the streets, and sing devotional songs will help you feel connected to the culture.

3. See the Snana Purnima Ritual

This is the ritual where the idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are bathed with 108 pots of sacred water. It happens before the Jagannath Rath Yatra and is an important part of the festival. After this bath, the idols are kept away for a few days as they are believed to fall sick. This phase is called “Anavasara”, and it creates a lot of emotional connection with the deities, just like caring for your family when someone is ill.

4. Watch the Grand Chariot Procession

This is the most exciting and important part of the Jagannath Rath Yatra. On the main day, the three huge chariots are pulled by thousands of people on the streets of Puri. The chariots are made fresh every year using traditional wood and designs. Being a part of this moment is a dream for many devotees. If you cannot pull the chariot, just being there and watching the deities travel to Gundicha Temple is a blessing in itself.

5. Feel the Energy of Chhera Pahanra

One of the most touching moments of the festival is when the King of Puri comes down from his palace and sweeps the area around the chariots with a golden broom. This is called Chhera Pahanra. It shows that no one is bigger than God and everyone is equal in front of the Lord. This act teaches humility and kindness to everyone watching.

6. Visit Gundicha Temple – The Deities’ Holiday Home

The chariots are pulled to the Gundicha Temple, where the deities stay for about 9 days. This place is like their holiday home. Devotees gather there to pray, sing, and cook food for the gods. You can also taste the special “Mahaprasad” here. It is food offered to the deities and then shared with everyone. It is not just food—it is a sacred gift that many believe brings peace and blessings.

7. Join the Return Journey – Bahuda Yatra

After 9 days at Gundicha Temple, the deities return to the main Jagannath Temple in another big procession. This return journey is called Bahuda Yatra. It is just as grand and emotional as the first journey. Watching the deities come back home gives you a feeling of completeness. Many people even say that the return journey is more peaceful and spiritual.

8. Experience Niladri Bijay – The Homecoming

This is the final ritual of the Jagannath Rath Yatra. On this day, Lord Jagannath returns to his main temple. But before entering, he has to convince his wife, Goddess Lakshmi, to let him in. This part of the festival is full of drama, devotion, and love. It shows that even gods have relationships and small misunderstandings—just like us.

9. Taste the Traditional Food – Mahaprasad and Poda Pitha

No festival in India is complete without food, and the Jagannath Rath Yatra in India is no different. Don’t miss out on the Mahaprasad, which is a large offering of rice, dal, vegetables, sweets, and more. It is served to thousands of people every day. Also, try Poda Pitha, a sweet made especially for Lord Jagannath. The food is simple but filled with love and blessings.

10. Explore the Local Art and Culture

When you visit Puri, take some time to explore nearby areas like Raghurajpur. This village is famous for its traditional art called “Pattachitra”—beautiful paintings made on cloth. You can also see palm-leaf carvings and local dance performances. This will help you understand the deeper culture behind the Jagannath Rath Yatra and the people of Odisha.

Final Thoughts

The Jagannath Rath Yatra is not just a festival—it is a journey of faith, love, and unity. People from all over the world come to see it, feel it, and be part of it. If you are planning to attend the Jagannath Rath Yatra in India, remember to Submit India Visa Online and check your IndiaVisa Status ahead of time.

From watching the majestic chariots to eating Mahaprasad, from hearing the chants to experiencing the love between Lord Jagannath and Goddess Lakshmi—every moment will stay in your heart forever. It’s not just a trip, it’s a spiritual experience that touches your soul.

So, pack your bags, prepare your heart, and get ready to witness one of the most divine festivals on Earth.