Rath Yatra 2026 – Date, Significance & Timings
16
July 2026
Thursday
Rath Yatra 2026
About Rath Yatra
Rath Yatra is the annual chariot procession of Lord Jagannath (a form of Vishnu/Krishna), celebrated most famously in Puri, Odisha. Massive wooden chariots carrying the deities are pulled through the streets by thousands of devotees.
Significance
Rath Yatra represents the annual journey of Lord Jagannath from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple (his aunt's home), a distance of about 3 km. It is one of the oldest and most spectacular festivals in India, with the Puri Rath Yatra attracting millions.
How the Date is Determined
Rath Yatra falls on Dwitiya (2nd Tithi) of Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashadha (June–July).
Related Festivals
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Puri Rath Yatra?
The Puri Rath Yatra in Odisha is the most famous chariot festival in India. Three giant wooden chariots — for Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra — are pulled by thousands of devotees to the Gundicha Temple.
When is Rath Yatra 2026?
Rath Yatra falls on Ashadha Shukla Dwitiya. Check the festivals calendar for the exact 2026 date.