The sacred town of Puri in Odisha is famous around the world for its spiritual heritage and vibrant festivals. Among these, the Chandan Yatra holds a special place. Celebrated annually, this unique sandalwood festival marks the beginning of the preparations for the world-renowned Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath.
In 2025, Chandan Yatra is set to begin on May 8 and will continue for 42 days, filled with divine rituals, boat rides, and centuries-old traditions.
What is Chandan Yatra?
Chandan Yatra, meaning “Sandalwood Voyage,” is a traditional festival during which the deities are smeared with sandalwood paste to help keep them cool during the summer. This sacred ritual is symbolic, spiritual, and deeply soothing—both for the gods and the devotees.
The festival is divided into two parts:
- Bahara Chandana (Outer Yatra) – First 21 days
- Bhitara Chandana (Inner Yatra) – Following 21 days
Chandan Yatra 2025 Dates
- Start Date: May 8, 2025
- Duration: 42 Days
- Location: Jagannath Temple and Narendra Tank, Puri, Odisha
Rituals and Celebrations
1. Bahara Chandana (Outer Yatra)
- For the first 21 days, the representative idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, Subhadra, Madanamohana, and the Pancha Pandava Shivalingas are taken in a grand procession.
- They are carried from the Jagannath Temple to the sacred Narendra Tank.
- In the evening, the deities are placed on beautifully decorated boats (Chapa) and enjoy ritual boat rides.
- These evening cruises are accompanied by devotional songs, traditional music, and temple rituals.
2. Bhitara Chandana (Inner Yatra)
- For the remaining 21 days, the rituals continue within the temple premises.
- No public procession is held, but the inner rituals are just as spiritually significant, focusing on cooling rituals and symbolic boat rides.
Significance of Chandan Yatra
- Acts as a prelude to the Rath Yatra.
- Helps maintain the tradition of seasonal rituals that keep the deities spiritually and physically “refreshed”.
- Reinforces the bond between the divine and the devotees through public celebration and participation.
Where is it Celebrated?
The festival is primarily celebrated in Puri, Odisha at:
- The Jagannath Temple – one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites.
- The nearby Narendra Tank – a holy water tank where boat rides are conducted.
Travel Tips for Visitors
- Best Time to Visit: Evenings during Bahara Chandana (May 8–28) for boat rituals.
- Where to Stay: Look for hotels near Grand Road (Bada Danda) or Sea Beach Road.
- What to Wear: Light cotton clothes, and modest attire for temple visits.
- Local Food to Try: Dalma, Pakhala Bhata, and Mahaprasad from the temple.
- How to Reach: Puri is well-connected by train from Bhubaneswar, which also has the nearest airport (about 60 km away).
Final Thought
The Chandan Yatra is more than a festival—it’s a beautiful blend of devotion, culture, and tradition. If you’re planning a spiritual trip or simply want to witness India’s rich cultural heritage, visiting Puri during Chandan Yatra 2025 can be a truly soul-stirring experience.
