Day 1: July 2 - Arrival in Bhubaneswar (50 km, approximately 4-5 hours including drive & sightseeing)
On First day of Jagannath Puri Ratha Yatra Tour . Upon arrival at Bhubaneswar, transfer to the hotel. If time permits, embark on a half-day sightseeing tour of the city, visiting the famous temples such as Lingaraj, Parsurameswar, Mukteswar (renowned for its exquisite Orissan architecture), Brahmeswar, and Rajarani temple. Overnight stay in Bhubaneswar.
Day 2: July 3 - Bhubaneswar
On Second day of Jagannath Puri Ratha Yatra Tour , In the morning, embark on an excursion to the Buddhist heritage site of the Tribal Museum. Recognized by UNESCO as one of the best-maintained tribal museums in India, it offers valuable insights into the rich tribal heritage of Odisha. Continue the excursion to Ratnagiri, a significant Buddhist holy destination adorned with ancient Buddhist sculptures. Explore Lalitgiri, the 1st-century Buddhist complex, and Udayagiri, a hill with 18 caves showcasing remarkable sculptures. Overnight stay.
Day 3: July 4 - Bhubaneswar to Konark (90 km, approximately 6 hours including drive & sightseeing)
On Third day of Jagannath Puri Ratha Yatra Tour , Start the day with a drive to Konark. En route, visit Dhauli, the peace pagoda, Hirapur's 64 Yogini Temple, and the vibrant applique village of Pipli. Check into the hotel and spend some relaxing time on the beach. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 4: July 5 - Konark
On Fourth day of Jagannath Puri Ratha Yatra Tour , Begin the day with a visit to the Ramchandi Temple, followed by a tour of the magnificent Konark Sun Temple, renowned for its architectural grandeur. Return to the hotel and enjoy an overnight stay.
Day 5: July 6 - Konark to Puri (150 km, approximately 4-5 hours drive)
On Fifth day of Jagannath Puri Ratha Yatra Tour , Drive to Puri and enjoy leisure time on the beach. (Optional: Dolphin watching on Chilika Lake - no additional charges). Overnight stay.
Note: Guests will have the opportunity to observe the construction and preparation of the chariots up close.
Day 6: July 7 - Full Day for Car Festival
On Sixth day of Jagannath Puri Ratha Yatra Tour , On this day, guests should start their day early, around 5-6 am, and leave the hotel to participate in the vibrant Car Festival. Upon arrival at the festival site, they can find seating arrangements on the rooftops of hotels or houses to get a great view of the event. It is advisable to carry water and snacks, as there won't be an opportunity to return to the hotel for lunch.
A significant ritual associated with the Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra is the "Chhera Pahara," wherein the Gajapati King takes part. During this ritual, the king sweeps around the deities and chariots using a gold-handled broom, cleansing the road and sprinkling sandalwood water and powder.
The celebration and observance of the Puri Rath Yatra Festival date back to ancient times, as described in the Puranas, including the Brahma Purana, Padma Purana, Skanda Purana, and Kapila Samhita.
Day 7: July 8 - Puri to Bhubaneswar - Delhi (80 km, approximately 4-5 hours including drive & sightseeing)
On Seventh day of Jagannath Puri Ratha Yatra Tour , In the morning, drive from Puri to Bhubaneswar airport, with an en-route visit to the Raghurajpur craft village, known for its traditional arts and crafts. This concludes the memorable Puri Ratha Yatra experience, as you proceed to Bhubaneswar airport for your onward journey to Delhi.