Narendra Tank, also known as Narendra Pokhari, is one of the largest tanks in Odisha, located in Puri. It's a significant pilgrimage site and a popular tourist attraction, especially during the Chandan Yatra festival. The tank is surrounded by various temples and shrines, including the Chandana Mandapa, where the deities Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are taken for a boat ride during the festival. The serene atmosphere and the religious significance of the tank make it a peaceful place to visit. You can enjoy the scenic beauty, observe the rituals, and experience the local culture.
Narendra Tank is believed to have been excavated by King Narendra Dev of Ganga Dynasty in the 15th century. Legends say that the tank was created by Lord Vishnu's Sudarshan Chakra. It's historically linked to the Jagannath Temple and plays a vital role in the annual Chandan Yatra festival, a 21-day boat festival celebrating the deities' summer journey. Over the centuries, the tank has been renovated and expanded by various rulers, adding to its historical and architectural richness. It remains a testament to the region's rich cultural and religious heritage.