In preparation for the grand Puri Rath Yatra 2025, Indian Railways has announced the operation of 365 special trains to facilitate the smooth movement of pilgrims from across the country. The East Coast Railway (ECoR) will coordinate these services, aimed at easing travel for thousands of devotees expected to attend the festival in Odisha’s holy city of Puri.
This year’s Rath Yatra, scheduled to begin on June 27, marks a significant cultural and religious event dedicated to Lord Jagannath, his brother Lord Balabhadra, and sister Devi Subhadra. The three deities are carried in massive wooden chariots from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple, drawing crowds in the millions.
Compared to 2024, when 315 special trains were arranged, this year’s number has increased to 365, reflecting higher expected footfall and greater regional participation. The trains will run to and from various parts of Odisha—including Rourkela, Sambalpur, Balasore, Angul, and Berhampur—as well as neighbouring states such as West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh.
According to railway officials, special services will also be extended to major cities like Visakhapatnam, Raipur, and Howrah to manage the influx of pilgrims from outside Odisha. Additional coaches and crowd control measures are being planned at key stations to ensure safety and convenience.
“The Rath Yatra is one of the largest religious gatherings in eastern India. To ensure safe, comfortable, and timely travel, we are deploying 365 special trains this year,” said an East Coast Railway spokesperson. “We’ve studied travel patterns from previous years and made changes accordingly.”
Railway authorities have also stated that real-time updates and schedules for these special trains will be available through official websites, apps, and public announcements. They are urging passengers to plan ahead and book tickets in advance to avoid last-minute congestion.
The full festival calendar begins with Snana Purnima on June 12, followed by Anavasara (the period when the deities remain unseen) from June 13 to June 26. The grand Rath Yatra will take place on June 27, followed by Hera Panchami on July 1, Bahuda Yatra (return journey) on July 4, and Suna Besha and Niladri Bijay on July 5.
The Odisha state government is also working closely with Indian Railways and other departments to ensure a smooth experience for the lakhs of visitors. Additional security arrangements, medical aid stations, and help desks are being set up at major junctions.
The Puri Rath Yatra is not just a spiritual affair—it is a logistical challenge that Indian Railways continues to meet with precision and planning. With enhanced connectivity, extended services, and dedicated personnel, the 2025 edition promises to be one of the most organized in recent memory.
