Rath Yatra

Immense wooden chariots containing Lord Jagannath, brother Balbhadra and sister Subhadra are hauled from Jagannath Mandir to Gundicha Mandir, beside Puri’s main bus stand. The Ulta Rath Yatra (return trip of the chariots) takes place about 10 days later. The English word juggernaut supposedly derives from the sight of Jagannath’s massive chariot rolling unstoppably down the road during the procession.

Puri Beach Festival

A festival featuring song, dance, food and cultural activities, including installations on the beach by sand artists from across India.

Makar Mela

This Puri festival celebrates the entrance of the sun into the orbit of Capricorn. Surya, the sun god, is the attention of worship for thousands who bathe in the sea and offer prayers to the rising sun.