Jagannath Yatra 2023: Will start from June 20, know how to complete the pilgrimage

INVC NEWS
Puri, Odisha – : The Jagannath Yatra, a significant Hindu pilgrimage, is an annual event that takes place in Puri, Odisha. It involves the grand procession of Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings, Lord Balarama and Devi Subhadra. Devotees from all over the country eagerly participate in this yatra to seek blessings and witness the divine journey of the deities. In this article, we will delve into the details of the Jagannath Yatra 2023, including the schedule, places to visit in Puri, the best time to visit, and other essential information to ensure a fulfilling pilgrimage experience.

Dates and Schedule of Jagannath Yatra 2023

The Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath is celebrated on the second day of the Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight) of the Ashadh month as per the Hindu calendar. In the year 2023, the auspicious occasion will commence on 20th June. This highly anticipated festival attracts millions of devotees who gather in Puri to witness the chariot procession and seek the blessings of the Lord.

Exploring Puri: Places to Visit

1. Shri Jagannath Temple Puri | Shree Jagannatha Temple Puri: The iconic Jagannath Temple in Puri is the primary attraction for pilgrims. It is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, and houses the deities along with their sibling idols. The temple’s architecture and spiritual ambiance leave visitors awe-struck.
2. Gundicha Temple: Located a few kilometers away from the Jagannath Temple, the Gundicha Temple holds immense significance during the yatra. It is believed that Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings, stays at this temple for a week before returning to the main temple.
3. Bedi Hanuman Temple: Situated near the sea, in front of the Jagannath Temple, the Bedi Hanuman Temple is a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Devotees often visit this temple to seek blessings and protection for Puri and its inhabitants.
4. Shaktipeeth: Puri is home to the revered Shaktipeeth, where the navel of the divine mother fell. The Vimala Shaktipeeth, located in the south-west corner of the Jagannath temple, is an important place of worship. Additionally, the presence of the Sapta Matrika temple near the Markandeya pond adds to the spiritual significance of the region.
5. Sudarshan Crafts Museum: Puri is also known for its Sudarshan Crafts Museum, which showcases intricate traditional crafts and artwork. Visitors can witness the skilled artisans at work and explore the rich cultural heritage of the region.
6. Beaches: Puri boasts several beautiful beaches, each offering a unique experience. Puri Beach, Marine Drive Puri, and Ballyghai Beach are popular among tourists for their scenic beauty and recreational activities. Chandrabhaga Beach, Golden Beach, Swargadwar Beach, and Baliharachandi Beach are other noteworthy coastal destinations.
7. Konark Sun Temple: Just 34 kilometers away from the Jagannath Temple in Puri, the Sun Temple of Konark is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This architectural marvel, dedicated to the Sun God, showcases stunning craftsmanship and intricate carvings.
8. Nandankanan Zoo: One of the major attractions near Puri is the Nandankanan Zoo, considered the second-largest zoo in India. It houses various wildlife species, including rare white tigers, and offers an opportunity to connect with nature and observe diverse fauna.
9. Chilka Lake: A visit to the picturesque Chilka Lake is a must when exploring the Puri region. This natural lagoon, where the lake meets the sea, offers breathtaking views. Traveling by boat and witnessing the mesmerizing confluence is a delightful experience.
10. Narendra Tank: Situated in the Dandi Mala Sahi area, just 1 kilometer from the Jagannath Temple, Narendra Tank is a sacred pond. Devotees often take a holy dip in this large pond, adding to the spiritual aura of the region.

Best Season and Time to Visit Puri

While the Jagannath Yatra takes place in the month of June, it is important to consider the crowd that gathers during this time. For a more peaceful and enjoyable visit to Puri, the period between October and March is considered the best time to explore the region. The weather during these months is pleasant, allowing visitors to comfortably navigate the attractions and partake in the festivities.

How to Reach Puri

Puri is well-connected through road, rail, and air networks, making it easily accessible for pilgrims and tourists.

• By Road: Puri has good connectivity through a well-established road network. Several state-run and private buses operate from neighboring cities and towns to Puri.
• By Rail: Puri has its own railway station, which is well-connected to major cities across India. Travelers can reach Puri directly by train or take a train to Bhubaneswar and then board another train to Puri.
• By Air: The nearest airport to Puri is Bhubaneswar’s Biju Patnaik International Airport, located approximately 60 kilometers away. From the airport, visitors can hire taxis or use other modes of transportation to reach Puri.

Accommodation Options in Puri

Puri offers a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are some popular choices:

1. Bhakti Niwas: Managed by the temple trust, Bhakti Niwas provides accommodation facilities for devotees. It is a convenient option for those visiting the Jagannath Temple for religious purposes.
2. Dharamshala: Puri has several dharamshalas that offer simple and affordable accommodation for pilgrims.
3. Private Hotels: There are numerous private hotels in Puri, ranging from budget to luxury options. These hotels provide comfortable amenities and cater to various needs.
4. Marine Drive Line: Located along the coast, the Marine Drive Line in Puri is a popular area known for its hotels and resorts. It offers scenic views and easy access to the beach.

It is advisable to book accommodations well in advance, especially during the Jagannath Yatra, to ensure a hassle-free stay.

Entering the Jagannath Temple

The Jagannath Temple in Puri is open to devotees belonging to the Hindu, Jain, Buddhist, and Sikh communities. To gain entry into the temple, it is necessary to carry an Aadhaar card as identification. Visitors are expected to adhere to the rules and regulations set by the temple authorities for a peaceful and respectful experience.

Prasad at Jagannath Puri

Prasad at Jagannath Puri holds great significance for devotees. The temple offers two types of prasad:

• Dry Prasad: Dry prasad typically consists of coconuts, laddoos, or other dry sweets.
• Wet Prasad: Wet prasad includes mixed rice, vegetables, and fruits. Malpua, a sweet delicacy, is also offered as part of the wet prasad.

The Annual Rath Yatra in Puri

The Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath is a grand event that takes place annually in the month of Ashadha. This highly anticipated festival begins on the second day of Shukla Paksha and involves the procession of three chariots carrying the deities. The chariots of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are pulled by devotees through the streets of Puri, symbolizing the journey of the divine siblings.

Other Tourist Places in Puri

Apart from the Jagannath Temple, there are several other attractions worth exploring in Puri:

1. Gundicha Temple: Located a few kilometers from the Jagannath Temple, the Gundicha Temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath’s aunt, Gundicha. It is believed that Lord Jagannath stays at this temple during the annual Rath Yatra.
2. Sun Temple of Konark: The Sun Temple of Konark, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its architectural brilliance. It showcases intricate carvings and sculptures, depicting various aspects of ancient Indian culture.
3. Beaches: Puri is blessed with beautiful beaches that attract visitors from far and wide. Puri Beach, Marine Drive Puri, and Ballyghai Beach are among the most popular choices. These beaches offer serene environments and opportunities for relaxation and recreation.
4. Museums: Sudarshan Crafts Museum in Puri is famous for its display of traditional crafts and artwork. It provides insights into the rich artistic heritage of the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which is the best season to visit Puri? The best time to visit Puri is between October and March when the weather is pleasant, and the region is less crowded.

2. Which is the best time to visit Jagannath Puri? The annual Jagannath Yatra takes place in the month of Ashadha. However, it is advisable to visit Puri during other months to avoid the heavy crowds during the yatra.

3. What is the distance between Puri Railway Station and Jagannath Temple? Puri Railway Station is located within walking distance from the Jagannath Temple. It is approximately 3 kilometers away.

4. Why is there no shadow of Puri Jagannath Temple? It is believed that due to a divine intervention, the main spire of the Jagannath Temple casts no shadow at any time of the day.

5. What is Puri famous for? Puri is famous for its Jagannath Temple, Rath Yatra, beautiful beaches, and the Sun Temple of Konark.

6. How many days are required for Puri? A 2-3 day visit is sufficient to explore the major attractions of Puri. However, if you wish to explore nearby places and enjoy a more relaxed pace, you can plan for a longer stay.

7. How much is the fare for Jagannath Puri? How to reach Puri? The fare for reaching Puri depends on the mode of transportation and the distance traveled. By train or bus, the fare can vary based on the starting location. By air, the fare for flights to Bhubaneswar needs to be considered, followed by local transportation to Puri.

8. Where to stay in Puri? Puri offers a range of accommodation options, including dharamshalas, temple guesthouses, and private hotels. The Marine Drive Line area is popular for its hotels and resorts.

9. How to enter Puri Jagannath Temple? To enter the Puri Jagannath Temple, visitors need to carry a valid identification document, preferably an Aadhaar card, and follow the rules and regulations set by the temple authorities.

10. What is the Prasad of Jagannath Puri? The Prasad of Jagannath Puri includes dry prasad, such as coconuts and laddoos, and wet prasad, consisting of mixed rice, vegetables, fruits, and Malpua.

11. Which tour is taken out in Puri? The Rath Yatra, also known as the Chariot Festival, is the most prominent tour taken out in Puri. It involves the grand procession of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra in their chariots.

12. How many tourist places are there in Puri? Puri offers several tourist attractions, including the Jagannath Temple, Gundicha Temple, Konark Sun Temple, beaches, Nandankanan Zoo, Chilka Lake, and more.

13. Whose famous temple is there in Puri? Puri is famous for the Jagannath Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.