Jagannath Rath Yatra, one of India’s most revered Hindu festivals, will be celebrated on Thursday, July 16, 2026. The annual festival commemorates the ceremonial journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra on beautifully decorated chariots. While the grandest celebrations take place in Puri, Odisha, Hyderabad has several vibrant Rath Yatra processions organised by ISKCON temples and Jagannath temples across the city.
Rath Yatra 2026 Date
Date: Thursday, July 16, 2026
Bahuda Yatra (Return Chariot Festival): Friday, July 24, 2026.
Major Rath Yatra Events in Hyderabad
1. ISKCON Abids 47th Sri Jagannath Rath Yatra
One of Hyderabad’s biggest Rath Yatra celebrations returns for its 47th edition.
Highlights:
* Date: Thursday, July 16, 2026
* Procession begins from NTR Stadium around 11 am
* Concludes at Exhibition Grounds
* Devotional kirtans, bhajans, prasadam distribution and cultural programmes throughout the day.
2. ISKCON Kukatpally Rath Yatra
ISKCON Kukatpally will organise its annual Rath Yatra featuring devotional singing and a colourful procession through Kukatpally.
Highlights:
* Date: Thursday, July 16, 2026
* Starts around 2.30 pm
* Procession through Kukatpally before concluding near HUDA Truck Parking
* Open to devotees and the public.
3. ISKCON Dhoolpet Rath Yatra
The Dhoolpet temple is organising another major community celebration.
Highlights:
* Date: Thursday, July 16, 2026
* Time: 9 am onwards
* Temple procession accompanied by Harinam Sankirtan, devotional music and prasadam.
4. ISKCON Attapur Grand Rath Yatra
Unlike most Hyderabad celebrations, ISKCON Attapur has scheduled its annual Jagannath Rath Yatra for Saturday, July 18, 2026.
Highlights:
* Inauguration at 12 noon
* 56 Bhog offering
* Cultural performances
* Bhagavad Gita discourses
* Kirtans and temple festivities extending into the evening.
5. Jagannath Temple, Banjara Hills
The iconic Shri Jagannatha Swami Temple in Banjara Hills is expected to witness thousands of devotees during Rath Yatra. Special darshan, rituals, bhajans and festive decorations are organised on the occasion, making it one of the city’s most important centres for Jagannath worship. The rath yatra – pulling of chariot will start at 1pm.
What to Expect During Rath Yatra
Visitors can look forward to:
* Decorated wooden chariots carrying the deities
* Harinam Sankirtan and devotional music
* Bhajan and kirtan performances
* Prasadam distribution
* Cultural programmes
* Spiritual discourses
* Community participation by devotees across Hyderabad.
Tips for Visitors
* Arrive early to avoid traffic around procession routes.
* Wear comfortable clothing and carry water, especially for daytime processions.
* Follow police traffic advisories where applicable.
* Many events conclude with free prasadam for devotees.
