The Sacred Journey: From Jagannath Temple to Gundicha Mandir
The Jagannath Rath Yatra is one of the most vibrant and sacred festivals celebrated in India. Held annually in Puri, Odisha, this grand event attracts millions of devotees and tourists from around the world.
Let’s take a simple journey through everything you need to know about this magnificent celebration.
Who is Lord Jagannath?
Lord Jagannath is a form of Lord Krishna, worshipped along with his siblings:
- Balabhadra (Balarama) – His elder brother
- Subhadra – His sister
These deities reside in the famous Jagannath Temple in Puri.
The Sacred Jagannath Temple of Puri
The Jagannath Temple is where the Rath Yatra begins.
- It is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, believed to grant moksha (liberation).
- Built in the 12th century, the temple stands tall at over 200 feet and is an architectural wonder of the Kalinga style.
- The idols of Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are made of neem wood and are replaced every 12 to 19 years in a sacred ritual called Nabakalebara.
- Non-Hindus cannot enter the temple, which makes the Jagannath Rath Yatra even more special, as it is the only time the deities come out to bless everyone.
The journey of the Rath Yatra starts here, as the deities leave their sanctum to meet the people outside the temple walls, making it a truly universal celebration of love and faith.
What is Rath Yatra?
The word “Rath Yatra” means Chariot Festival. During this event, the three deities come out of their temple and travel in huge, decorated wooden chariots through the streets of Puri.
It symbolizes the Lord giving darshan (blessings) to all, especially those who cannot enter the temple.
When Does the Jagannath Rath Yatra Happen?
Rath Yatra takes place every year in June or July, on the second day of the Ashadha month (as per the Hindu calendar).
In 2025, the Rath Yatra is held on 27th June.
The Journey of the Deities
On this day, Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are placed in three massive chariots and pulled by thousands of devotees to the Gundicha Temple, which is about 3 km away.
They stay there for nine days, and then return to the main temple in a return journey called the Bahuda Yatra.
Significance of Gundicha Temple
The Gundicha Temple is not just a stop—it is a very sacred part of the Rath Yatra tradition.
- It is believed to be the aunt’s house of Lord Jagannath. The stay here is like a family visit.
- According to the Skanda Purana, this temple is considered the Garden House of Lord Jagannath.
- Traditionally, the temple is believed to have been built by Queen Gundicha, after whom it is named.
- Spiritually, it represents Vrindavan, the sacred land where Lord Krishna spent his childhood. So, the Lord’s stay here is symbolic of returning to his roots.
For devotees, darshan at the Gundicha Temple during this time is considered extremely pure and blessed.
The Grand Chariots
Each deity has its unique chariot:
- Lord Jagannath’s Chariot: Nandighosha – 45 feet high, 16 wheels, Red and Yellow canopies
- Balabhadra’s Chariot: Taladhwaja – 44 feet high, 14 wheels, Red and Green canopies
- Subhadra’s Chariot: Darpadalana – 43 feet high, 12 wheels, Red and Black canopies
These are newly built every year using special neem wood. No nails or screws are used in the main structure. The chariots are adorned with vibrant canopies made from thousands of meters of cloth, intricate carvings, and various decorative motifs, each with symbolic meaning.
What Makes Jagannath Rath Yatra So Special?
- Anyone can pull the chariot – regardless of religion, caste, or background.
- It is one of the oldest Rath Yatras in the world, mentioned in ancient scriptures.
- The sheer scale and devotion make it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
- There’s a special ritual where the King of Puri sweeps the chariot floor, showing humility before the Lord.
Spiritual Significance of Jagannath Rath Yatra
The Rath Yatra represents:
- The Lord’s love for his people
- The message of equality and unity
- The idea that God comes to you, not just the other way around
Tips for Visitors
- Plan early: Hotels and trains fill up fast during the Rath Yatra
- Stay hydrated: June-July can be hot and humid
- Be part of the crowd, safely: It can get crowded, so stay with your group
- Don’t miss the Sandhya Darshan, Bahuda Yatra, and Suna Besha (when Lord Jagannath is decorated with gold)
Experience Jagannath Rath Yatra with Dhyanam India Tours
At Dhyanam India Tours, we offer guided spiritual tours that cover not just the Rath Yatra but the entire spiritual essence of Odisha. From the beaches of Puri to the temples of Bhubaneswar and Konark, we make your journey memorable and meaningful.
Want to witness the divine chariot ride in Puri?
Let us help you experience Rath Yatra the traditional way — with devotion, comfort, and care.
The Jagannath Rath Yatra is more than a festival — it’s a feeling of faith, joy, and togetherness. Whether you’re religious or just curious, being part of this centuries-old tradition is truly magical. Come, feel the rhythm of the chariots, the chants of the devotees, and the divine energy that fills the air in Puri.