Located near Nairi village in Khurda district, the Kankanashikhari Temple sits peacefully on a hillock in the Chilika backwaters. The temple is historically significant as it once sheltered the idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra during the Mughal invasion of Puri in 1731.
To this day, the Rath Yatra in Chilika is celebrated to honor that period of divine exile — a time when Lord Jagannath took refuge in the wilderness, protected by faith and nature.
The Unique Floating Rath Yatra of Chilika
Unlike the traditional chariot procession on wheels, the Rath Yatra at Kankanashikhari takes place on boats. Here’s how it unfolds:
Specially joined boats are transformed into a floating chariot.
The idols of Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are installed on this boat-chariot.
The boat then makes a divine circle around the Kankanashikhari Hill, amidst the calm and spiritual waters of Chilika Lake.
Devotional songs, drums, and conch shells echo across the lake as devotees gather on the shore and boats.
It is one of the only water-based Rath Yatra festivals in India, blending faith, nature, and tradition into a surreal spiritual experience.
🙏 Devotee Participation & Rituals
Pilgrims from nearby villages like Nairi, Banpur, and Satapada come by foot and boats to witness this holy spectacle.
Free ferry services are provided from Nairi Ghat by the local temple trust and district administration.
Rituals such as Chhera Panhara (ceremonial sweeping), bhajan-kirtan, and pushpanjali (flower offerings) are conducted with full devotion.
This unique celebration is not just a religious event — it’s a powerful reminder of Lord Jagannath’s connection with every corner of Odisha.
Why Rath Yatra on Chilika Is Spiritually Special
| Feature | Why It’s Unique |
|---|---|
| 🌅 Location | Held in the tranquil backwaters of Asia’s largest brackish lake |
| ⛵ Medium | Chariot floats on boats instead of rolling on wheels |
| 🙌 Legacy | Commemorates Lord Jagannath’s exile from Puri during invasion |
| 🕊️ Spiritual Vibes | Deeply peaceful, surrounded by water, hills, and nature |
| 🎉 Cultural Richness | A blend of tribal tradition, Odia devotion, and village community spirit |
How to Visit Kankanashikhari for the Floating Rath Yatra
📍 Location: Kankanashikhari Temple, near Nairi village, Khurda District, Odisha
🚗 Nearest Town: Banpur (connected by road from Bhubaneswar)
⛵ Boating Point: Nairi Ghat (free boat rides available during Rath Yatra)
📅 Festival Date: As per the Odia calendar, same as Puri Rath Yatra (usually June/July)
A Divine Experience for Pilgrims & Photographers Alike
The floating Rath Yatra is not just spiritually uplifting — it is also visually stunning. Early morning mist, the shimmering lake, vibrantly decorated boats, and colorful devotees create a scene that’s perfect for photography, cultural documentation, and spiritual tourism.
Conclusion: A Journey Beyond the Ordinary
In a world filled with noise and crowds, the Floating Rath Yatra of Chilika offers something rare — peaceful devotion in the lap of nature. It reminds us that Lord Jagannath is not just confined to Puri — his presence is everywhere his devotees carry him, even into the waters of Chilika.
If you’re seeking a spiritual journey off the beaten path, Kankanashikhari’s Rath Yatra is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
To visit pl contact – 7008178497