About Rath Yatra (Jagannath Puri)
Rath Yatra is the grand chariot festival of Lord Jagannath, celebrated most famously in Puri, Odisha. On this day the deities Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra leave their temple sanctum and journey out among the people on three towering wooden chariots. It is the rare occasion when devotees can have darshan and serve the deities directly. The festival draws millions and is regarded as one of the most spectacular religious processions in the world.
In Puri the three chariots, led by Jagannath in the great Nandighosh, are hauled by huge crowds along the route to the Gundicha Temple roughly three kilometres away. Pulling the ropes is considered a deeply blessed act. The chariots are newly built each year from sacred wood, and the deities later return in the Bahuda Yatra. Similar processions are held across India and around the world, wherever Jagannath communities gather to recreate the celebration.
Rath Yatra follows the Hindu lunar calendar, beginning on the second lunar day of the bright half of the month of Ashadha, typically in June or July. Because lunar and Gregorian calendars differ, the date moves each year. The live countdown above tracks the next occurrence so you always know how many days remain. If you wish, you can add this countdown to your own page and share the journey to the festival with others.
Upcoming dates
| 2026 | Thursday, July 16, 2026next |
| 2027 | Monday, July 5, 2027 |
| 2028 | Saturday, June 24, 2028 |
| 2029 | Friday, July 13, 2029 |
FAQ
When is Rath Yatra this year?
Rath Yatra begins on the second lunar day of the bright half of Ashadha, usually in June or July. Since the Hindu calendar is lunar, the Gregorian date shifts each year, so see the live countdown above for the next date.
Why is Rath Yatra celebrated?
It marks the annual journey of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra from their temple to the Gundicha Temple. It is the one time the deities leave the sanctum to be seen and served by all, regardless of background.
How is Rath Yatra celebrated?
Three enormous wooden chariots carrying the deities are pulled by vast crowds through the streets of Puri amid chanting, music and devotion. After a stay at the Gundicha Temple, the deities make a return journey known as the Bahuda Yatra.
Why are the Rath Yatra chariots rebuilt every year?
New chariots are constructed each year from specially selected sacred wood, following age-old craft traditions. Pulling these freshly built chariots is believed to be a profoundly auspicious and purifying act for devotees.