The Streets of Paris The Spirit of India
Bringing together people of all ages and backgrounds, the event will promote inclusion, social cohesion, and intercultural dialogue through a shared celebration of heritage and community.
Set against the backdrop of one of the world’s most iconic cities, the procession will mark a memorable moment in the evolving Indo-French relationship.
FAQs
General
Who can attend?
The Nagar Yatra is open to all individuals who wish to participate. All participants are expected to register in advance and comply with the event guidance and safety instructions.
How long is the Nagar Yatra?
The Nagar Yatra covers approximately 4 km and is completed at a slow walking pace. Please note that there are no designated seating or rest areas along the route, and participants should be prepared to remain on their feet throughout the procession.
Can I bring personal belongings with me during the Nagar Yatra?
Participants may bring essential personal belongings with them. However, we recommend travelling light, as participants will be walking for an extended period and there will be no facility to store personal items during the procession. Please keep your belongings with you at all times.
Health & Safety
I require special assistance due to my health. Can I still attend the Nagar Yatra?
Haribhaktas with fragile health or requiring special assistance are advised to take labh at the Mandir Mahotsav site events instead. Participation is voluntary and at the individual’s own risk.
No special‑assistance facilities will be available.
Alternatively, you can join the Nagar Yatra as a spectator (minimal walking, but still be able to travel into Central Paris).
Will first aid support be available during the Nagar Yatra?
Yes. First aid support will be available during the Nagar Yatra. If you require medical assistance, please approach your Group Lead, who will be able to provide support and contact the appropriate team if required.
I am unable to walk for a long period, and will need to pause / sit down. Can I still participate in the Nagar Yatra?
The Nagar Yatra is a continuous moving procession lasting approximately 3 hours at a slow walking pace. Participants should expect to remain on their feet for the duration of the route, as there are no designated seating or rest areas along the procession.
If you feel that you may be unable to comfortably complete the route on foot, we recommend registering as a spectator instead, so you can still enjoy and experience the event without taking part in the walking procession.
Registration / Start & End Point
Do I need to register for Paris Mandir Mahotsav to take part in the Yatra?
Yes. All participants must register for Paris Mandir Mahotsav first.
If you have not yet registered for Paris Mandir Mahotsav, please do so first. Please ensure that all your guests are also registered for the Mahotsav. This is Step 1.
Only after completing Step 1 will you be able to register for the Nagar Yatra, which is Step 2.
Priority will be given to those who have completed Step 3.
To learn more about the four-step registration process, please visit the website register page.
Where is the meeting point?
The exact location in Central Paris will be emailed to all registered participants before the event. Arrival time information will also be shared nearer the time.
Is there a cost?
No, the Nagar Yatra is free for all to attend.
What is the dress code?
Further information will be provided in the information pack closer to the event date.
Where does the Nagar Yatra finish?
The location of the Nagar Yatra, along with arrangements at the finish point and guidance for onward travel, will be provided in the information pack shared with registered participants closer to the event date.
On-the-Day Logistics
Will breakfast be provided in the morning?
Breakfast will not be provided on the day of the event. However, pre-arranged breakfast food packs will be available for collection on the evening before the event.
Further details, including the collection process, location(s) and timings, will be provided in the information pack.
Are there any bathroom facilities on the route?
Yes, there are limited public toilet facilities along the route of the Yatra.
Can wheelchair or pram users also participate?
Wheelchair users are very welcome to participate in the Nagar Yatra. We kindly ask that they are accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide any assistance required throughout the procession, as volunteers will not be able to provide individual mobility support.
Please bear in mind the length of the Yatra and that some sections of the route may be uneven or not fully level.
For anyone who feels that participating in the full procession may not be suitable, there will also be an option to observe the Nagar Yatra from designated viewing points. If this would be more comfortable or appropriate for you, please select the relevant option when registering
Can children and elderly family members take part?
Yes. Children and elderly participants are welcome, provided they are registered.
Parents/guardians must supervise children throughout the procession.
Elderly participants must also be registered, as a participant or observer. If a carer is required, both the individual and the carer must register.
Is food provided?
Packed mahaprasad (lunch) will be provided at the end of the procession. Please feel free to utilise the open space to eat with family.
What if I arrive late?
Late arrivals are welcome where possible; however, all participants are strongly encouraged to arrive by the stated registration time, which will be communicated closer to the event.
Arriving on time is important to allow sufficient time for registration and for participants to be organised within their allocated zone before the procession begins.
Please note that late arrival may result in reduced participation or refusal of participation. If the procession has already started, you may not be able to join your allocated group and may instead be directed to the nearest designated observation point.
How far is the Starting Point from BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir, Paris?
It is approximately 35 kilometres.
- By car: approximately 1 hour (no traffic)
- By public transport: approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
Can I walk with my family?
As per our maryada, male and female participants will be allocated to separate zones.
Transport
Will transport be provided?
No, BAPS will not be arranging any transport into Central Paris for the Nagar Yatra. Participants must make their own way to the starting point.
Further guidance, routes, and directions will be shared nearer the time.
We highly recommend using the Metro/RER public train system. Alternatively, participants may book a taxi/Uber or drive and arrange their own parking.
What do I need to travel into Central Paris by Metro/RER?
You will need a Navigo pass to travel into Central Paris by Metro or RER.
For convenience, we recommend using Navigo, either through the Île-de-France Mobilités app on your phone or by purchasing a physical Navigo card.
This is generally one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to travel around Paris using public transport.
For further information and step-by-step guidance, please refer to the Public Transport section.
