Puri Rath Yatra 2026: Key Dates and Rituals for Devotees

The Puri Rath Yatra 2026 is set to begin on July 16, attracting millions of devotees eager to seek blessings from Lord Jagannath. This article outlines the complete schedule, including key rituals such as Nabajaubana Darshan, Hera Panchami, and the final Niladri Bije ceremony. Join the festivities and learn about the significance of each day in this revered celebration.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 7, 2026, 10:06 IST

Overview of Puri Rath Yatra 2026

Puri Rath Yatra 2026 Schedule: The renowned Rath Yatra, or Chariot Festival, dedicated to Lord Jagannath, takes place every year in Puri, Odisha. This grand event attracts millions of devotees who come to receive blessings from Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings, Balabhadra and Subhadra. It is widely believed that participating in this festival helps alleviate life's challenges and grants *Moksha* (salvation) through Lord Jagannath's grace. This year, the festivities will kick off on Thursday, July 16. For those interested in joining the celebrations, it is essential to know the complete schedule, including the start date, duration, daily rituals, and the return of Lord Jagannath to his temple. Here’s a detailed look at the Puri Rath Yatra schedule.

Detailed Schedule for Puri Rath Yatra 2026

Puri Rath Yatra 2026: Complete Schedule
July 15, Wednesday: Nabajaubana Darshan
On this day, Lord Jagannath makes his first public appearance after a period of seclusion (*Ekantavasa*), allowing devotees to glimpse the deity before the Rath Yatra begins.

July 16, Thursday: Start of Rath Yatra
The Rath Yatra officially begins on *Ashadha Shukla Dwitiya*. The process of pulling the three chariots—carrying Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra—towards the Gundicha Temple starts. The *Ashadha Shukla Dwitiya* *tithi* (lunar day) lasts from 11:50 AM on July 15 to 08:52 AM on July 16.

July 20, Monday: Hera Panchami
On this day, Lord Jagannath and his siblings arrive at the Gundicha Temple, which is considered their aunt's home, and take rest there. Goddess Lakshmi visits the Gundicha Temple on *Hera Panchami*.

July 23, Thursday: Sandhya Darshan
During the evening hours, devotees can have a darshan of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra at the Gundicha Temple.

July 24, Friday: Bahuda Yatra
This day marks the return journey (*Ulti Yatra*) from the Gundicha Temple, where the three chariots are pulled back to the main temple in Puri.

July 25, Saturday: Suna Besha
Upon the arrival of the chariots at the Jagannath Temple, the 'Suna Besha' ritual takes place, where Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are adorned with gold ornaments.

July 26, Sunday: Adhara Pana
In this ritual, a sweet drink is offered to Lord Jagannath and his siblings.

July 27, Monday: Niladri Bije
Niladri Bije marks the final ritual of the Rath Yatra. During this ceremony, Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra are ceremoniously placed on the 'Ratna Simhasana' (Gem-studded Throne) in the sanctum sanctorum of the main Srimandir, signifying the conclusion of the Rath Yatra.

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