Ashadha Shukla Dwitiya (June / July)Monsoon · Sawan
Shri Jagannath Rath Yatra
श्री जगन्नाथ रथ यात्रा
Giant wooden chariots pulled by hand through Vrindavan's streets.
Why it matters
Commemorates Krishna's journey out of Vrindavan.
The story
Grand wooden chariots carrying Lord Jagannath, his brother Baladev and sister Subhadra are pulled by hand through the streets of Vrindavan by thousands of singing devotees. Ropes strain, kirtan swells, and the whole town turns out to tug the chariots — for it is believed that simply pulling the rope wipes away lifetimes of karma.
Quick facts
- 1Three deities ride: Jagannath, Baladev and Subhadra.
- 2Devotees believe pulling the chariot rope erases lifetimes of karma.
- 3The chariots are hauled entirely by hand through the streets.
Where to see it
ISKCON VrindavanStreets across Vrindavan
Temples to visit
Frequently asked questions
- When is Shri Jagannath Rath Yatra celebrated in Vrindavan?
- Shri Jagannath Rath Yatra is celebrated in Ashadha Shukla Dwitiya (June / July). Festivals follow the Hindu lunar calendar, so exact dates shift each year. Dates shown are indicative — confirm locally before travelling.
- Where is Shri Jagannath Rath Yatra celebrated?
- Shri Jagannath Rath Yatra is centred at ISKCON Vrindavan, Streets across Vrindavan.
- What is the significance of Shri Jagannath Rath Yatra?
- Commemorates Krishna's journey out of Vrindavan. Grand wooden chariots carrying Lord Jagannath, his brother Baladev and sister Subhadra are pulled by hand through the streets of Vrindavan by thousands of singing devotees. Ropes strain, kirtan swells, and the whole town turns out to tug the chariots — for it is believed that simply pulling the rope wipes away lifetimes of karma.
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