Rath Yatra, a huge Hindu festival which is celebrated with great enthusiasm and positive vibes in Puri at the famous temple Jagannath Temple. In this festival many devotees and tourists come together to worship and be a part of this momentous occasion. Lord Jagannath is worshiped and is also considered as a form of Lord Vishnu. Here, Jagannath is meant as the Lord of Universe and is one of the four Hindu pilgrimage which is known as Char Dham.  

Date of Rath Yatra  

The Jagannath Puri Yatra is held on the second day in the month of Ashadha of the bright fortnight according to the Hindu’s calendar. According to the calendar this time in 2024 the Rath Yatra would take place at 7th of July, 2024 which is Sunday. At this date Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Lord Subhadra will start their journey from the Jagannath Temple to Gundicha Temple. 

Significance  

Rath Yatra has its own religious beliefs. It starts with the journey of Lord Jagannath, his brother Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra from their place to their aunt’s house which is Gundicha Temple.  

It is also believed that if you see the godhead outside the temple during the rath yatra it also washes away the sins and the negative aura you have. During this yatra the deities are adorned beautifully and they are pulled by many devotees from one place to another. Many devotees indulge in this activity with full enthusiasm and happiness, which showcase their emotion and devotion towards the god.  

Route of the Yatra  

The route is basically starts from:  
Jagannath Temple- Bada Danda- Gundicha Temple  

Where it takes a stop at Mausi Maa Temple where the deities are offered Poda Pitha, a special type of cake which is believed is favorite of the Lord Jagannath. And here after taking rest the journey gets continue.  

After reaching to Gundicha Temple the ceremony is held and they stay there for whole seven days. After that the return journey begins back to the temple and this return journey is also known as Bahuda Yatra.  

Preparations  

If you are planning to attend or be a part of this rath yatra then there are some tips which you need to pay significance on.  

Stay  

Have your stay planned in advanced as that would avoid your hassle of finding one in that rush. Finalizing your stay before will help you a lot and would provide you ease.  

Travel  

Keep in mind that due to rath yatra you would face major rush and there might be road blockage as well. To reach Puri you have all the options open such as by road, train and air. 

Safety 

Do ensure that you stay hydrated, wear loose and comfortable clothes and always follow all the instructions provided by the authorities.  

Conclusion  

The Jagannath Puri Yatra is not only a religious event but an event where people from different backgrounds come together to celebrate with full dedication and devotion. If you are a part of this festival or are planning to be then this would be one time life experience for you as the devotion, positive vibes and the divine aura you would be feeling is the utmost comfort.  
Plan your puri tour and be a part of this divine festival with full devotion and positivity.