New Delhi: The Jagannath Rath Yatra is among India’s most celebrated religious festivals, drawing millions of devotees every year in a vibrant display
of faith, devotion and tradition. While Puri in Odisha remains the spiritual heart of the festival, the chariot procession has inspired equally remarkable celebrations in several parts of the country. Each destination, carrying centuries-old processions, royal traditions and distinctive local customs, offers its own interpretation of Lord Jagannath’s annual journey with Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra.
Some are known for their historical significance, while others are recognised for unique rituals that have become part of their local identity. These Rath Yatras showcase the diversity of India’s spiritual heritage through diverse traditions like procession on an iron chariot or led by women or celebrations reflecting regional culture. Here are the places where you can experience the festival beyond its most famous celebrations in Puri.
Places beyond Puri celebrating Jagannath Rath Yatra
Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Often considered the grandest Rath Yatra after Puri, Ahmedabad’s procession has been celebrated since 1878. Beginning at the historic Jagannath Temple in Jamalpur, the yatra covers nearly 14 kilometres through the city.
Highlights
- Decorated elephants and camels
- Cultural performances
- Martial arts displays
- Devotional music
- Large-scale community service
- Volunteers distributing food and drinking water to devotees
Baripada, Odisha
Baripada has celebrated Jagannath Rath Yatra since 1575, making it one of Odisha’s oldest processions outside Puri. The town is best known for a tradition found nowhere else in India.
Highlights
- Since 1975, the chariot of Goddess Subhadra has been pulled entirely by women
- Introduced during International Women’s Year, the custom has continued for five decades
- It has become the defining feature of Baripada’s Rath Yatra.
Raj-Ranpur, Odisha
Located near Bhubaneswar, Raj-Ranpur offers a quieter yet historically significant Rath Yatra experience. The festival has been observed here for more than 250 years, while the Jagannath Temple dates back to the 14th century and stands beside the former royal palace.
Highlights
- Raj-Ranpur provides a more peaceful setting
- This event allows visitors to experience Odisha’s Jagannath traditions in a less crowded atmosphere
Mahesh, West Bengal
Situated in Hooghly district, Mahesh is believed to host the oldest Rath Yatra outside Puri, with records tracing the celebration back to 1396. It is also regarded as one of the world’s oldest surviving chariot festivals.
Highlights
- Famous for its nearly 50-foot-tall iron chariot instead of the wooden chariots
- Lord Jagannath is taken to Masir Bari or aunt’s home
- It follows the same tradition observed in Puri
Ranchi, Jharkhand
With a history spanning more than three centuries, Ranchi’s Rath Yatra ranks among Jharkhand’s largest religious festivals. The Jagannath Temple, built in 1691 by the Nagvanshi kings, was inspired by the iconic temple in Puri.
Highlights
- Every year, devotees pull the chariot from the hilltop shrine to Masi Bari
- The festival is especially notable for bringing together tribal and non-tribal communities
Imphal, Manipur
Known locally as Kang Chingba, Manipur’s Rath Yatra is one of the state’s most important religious festivals. The procession begins at the historic Shree Govindaji Temple in Imphal and beautifully blends Jagannath traditions with the state’s cultural heritage.
Highlights
- Alongside the decorated chariots, visitors can witness traditional Manipuri dance
- Devotees can witness devotional music and local customs
Although the sacred journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra remains the heart of every Rath Yatra, each destination celebrates it in its own unique way. These festivals reflect the rich cultural diversity that continues to keep the spirit of Jagannath devotion alive across India.
