Narendra tank is one of the largest tanks of Orissa which is located at a distance of 2 kms from Puri. Built in 15th century, this tank is situated in Mauja Dandimala Sahi. The massive structure of Narendra tank is mainly known for the Chandana Yatra which is also known as Chandana Pushkarini. During this festival all the big and small deities are taken out of their temples and floated in the pious water of this lake. The deities are applied withy chandana paste and then washed with the sacred water of this tank. This ritual is organized in the Baishak month of Hindu calendar - the month which marks the beginning of scotching summer. Under this ritual Lord Jaganatha is escorted to this lake once in a year where he is supposed to have his bath once in the year.
Narendra tank is surrounded with a number of small and large shrines. Overall the tank covers 16 ghats which provide an opportunity for the pilgrims to have a holy bath. The water level of the tank is 10 ft below the present road level. The main ghat has a flight of steps made up of Khondalite. There is an island in the centre of the lake with a small temple called Chandana Mandapa which is connected to the southern bank with a bridge. This tank is situated at a distance 2 kms from the Jaganath temple which helps the visitors to have easy access to the lake.
Thus Narendra tank is one of the most sacred and pious tanks of Orissa where the lord Jaganatha has his sacred bath. Surrounded with a number of small and large temples this is one of the most sacred tanks which is located at a distance of only 2 kms from the temple of Lord Jaganatha. This benefits the visitors who can get easy access to the lake.
