Chandan Jatra, also spelt as Chandan yatra, is a 21-day festival celebrated from Akshay Trutiya in Puri Jagannath Temple. This is one of the most celebrated festivals in Puri temple after Jagannath Rath yatra.
The Outer Chandan yatra (Bahar Chandan Yatra) is performed for first 21 days in 42-day Chandan Jatra. As part of Bahar Chandan Jatra, the images of Rama, Krishan, Madanmohan, Laxmi and Saraswati are taken out side in a procession daily to Narendra Tank. The Panchalinga Shivas (Lokanath, Yameswar, Markendeya, Kapal Mochan and Nilakanth) are also taken out in a procession daily to the tank.
Chandan Jatra is held with the accompaniment of songs, drum beats, and bhajans of devotees. Chandan Yatra marks the beginning of Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra’s arrangements. In 2015, Chandan Jatra begins on April 21.