Puri Rath Yatra 2026 – The Grand Car Festival of Odisha

🗓️ Rath Yatra Date: Sunday, 12 July 2026

🛕 Bahuda Yatra (Return Car Festival): Monday, 20 July 2026

Rath Yatra 2026 or Puri Car Festival is one of India’s most iconic and spiritual festivals, celebrated with immense devotion in Puri, Odisha. In 2026, the grand procession begins on Sunday, 12 July, marking the day when Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra, travels from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple. The return journey, known as Bahuda Yatra, will be observed on Monday, 20 July 2026.

🌟 What is Rath Yatra?

Ratha Yatra, also known as the Chariot Festival, is an annual Hindu festival that draws millions of devotees from across India and the world. Celebrated in the sacred city of Puri, this event symbolizes Lord Jagannath’s journey to his aunt’s temple and his return home after a nine-day stay.

🛕 The Majestic Chariots of Rath Yatra 2026

The central highlight of this festival is the grand procession of the three elaborately decorated chariots:

• Nandighosa – The chariot of Lord Jagannath, standing tall at 45 feet with 16 wheels, decorated in red and yellow hues.

• Taladhwaja – The chariot of Lord Balabhadra, rising to 45.6 feet with 14 wheels, adorned in red and green.

• Darpadalana (Devadalana) – The chariot of Goddess Subhadra, 44.6 feet high with 12 wheels, draped in red and black.

These massive wooden chariots are crafted by skilled local artisans and volunteers, using traditional techniques passed down through generations.

✨ Cultural Significance and Celebrations

Months before the Yatra, the temple town of Puri is abuzz with activity. Rituals such as Snana Yatra (divine bathing ceremony), Anasara (when the deities fall ill), and Netrotsav (ritual healing) lead up to the Rath Yatra.

Devotees gather in lakhs to pull the sacred ropes of the chariots, chanting "Jai Jagannath!" as the deities make their way to the Gundicha Temple. The spiritual energy, music, dance, and community meals make it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

🧳 Fixed Departure Tours for Rath Yatra 2026

Plan your spiritual journey early! Many tour operators offer Odisha fixed departure packages for Rath Yatra 2026 including:

• AC transportation from Bhubaneswar to Puri

• Guided temple visits

• Comfortable hotel stays near the Rath Yatra route

• Traditional meals and cultural experiences

📍 Top choice stay: Toshali Sands Puri – a popular resort for pilgrims and tourists during Rath Yatra.

📌 Why You Should Attend Rath Yatra in Puri

• Witness divine tradition: The only time of the year when the deities leave the sanctum.

• Cultural immersion: Experience the soul of Odisha through its art, devotion, and hospitality.

• Spiritual upliftment: Join millions in pulling the chariots — considered a path to moksha (liberation).

✅ Travel Tips for Rath Yatra 2026

• Book early: Hotels and trains fill up months in advance.

• Pack light: Expect large crowds and long walks.

• Stay hydrated: July is hot and humid in Odisha.

• Respect local customs: Follow guidelines and maintain decorum at sacred sites.

🔔 Mark Your Calendar:

• Rath Yatra: Sunday, 12 July 2026

• Bahuda Yatra: Monday, 20 July 2026

Be part of this divine journey and experience the magic of Rath Yatra 2026 in Puri — a festival where devotion meets grandeur on the sacred streets of Odisha.