Ekadashi Dates 2026 are important for Hindu devotees who observe fasting and worship Lord Vishnu throughout the year. Ekadashi occurs twice in most lunar months, during Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha. These sacred days are associated with prayer, devotion, self-discipline, and spiritual reflection. By checking the Ekadashi calendar in advance, devotees can prepare for each vrat and follow their religious traditions with greater ease.
The Ekadashi Dates 2026 calendar helps you identify the fasting dates for all the Ekadashi observances throughout the year. Each Ekadashi has its own traditional name, religious significance, and associated practices. Many devotees spend the day praying, chanting Vishnu mantras, reading sacred texts, and performing charitable activities. Understanding the meaning of each observance can make your spiritual journey more meaningful.
One of the most important details in Ekadashi Dates 2026 is the correct fasting date and Parana timing. Parana refers to breaking the fast, generally on the following Dwadashi day, according to traditional rules. The exact timing may vary depending on your city, local sunrise, and Panchang calculations. Therefore, it is important to check a reliable Hindu calendar for accurate fasting and Parana details before observing the vrat.
Many devotees follow Ekadashi Dates 2026 to plan their worship, prepare suitable fasting foods, and organize family religious activities. Fasting practices can differ according to personal health, family customs, and regional traditions. Some people observe a strict fast, while others choose a partial fast or participate through prayer and meditation. Always prioritize your health and choose a practice that is appropriate for your circumstances.
This complete guide to Ekadashi Dates 2026 will help you explore the year’s fasting schedule, important vrat dates, Parana timings, and traditional observance rules. You will also learn about the spiritual significance of Ekadashi and how devotees prepare for these sacred days. Whether you observe every Ekadashi or only selected ones, this guide will help you plan ahead, understand the calendar, and follow your traditions with confidence.
Ekadashi Dates 2026: Complete Monthly Vrat Calendar
There are generally two Ekadashi observances in each lunar month: one during Shukla Paksha, the waxing phase of the Moon, and another during Krishna Paksha, the waning phase. In 2026, the commonly used Hindu and Vaishnava calendars list 24 principal Ekadashi observances, although certain traditions may show additional or shifted observance dates.
The following calendar is based on the published 2026 fasting calendar for Delhi, India. The dates are useful as a general reference, but devotees in Pakistan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and other locations should check their local Panchang.
| Month | Ekadashi name | Vrat date in 2026 |
| January | Shattila Ekadashi | January 14, Wednesday |
| January | Jaya Ekadashi | January 29, Thursday |
| February | Vijaya Ekadashi | February 13, Friday |
| February | Amalaki Ekadashi | February 27, Friday |
| March | Papamochani Ekadashi | March 15, Sunday |
| March | Kamada Ekadashi | March 29, Sunday |
| April | Varuthini Ekadashi | April 13, Monday |
| April | Mohini Ekadashi | April 27, Monday |
| May | Apara Ekadashi | May 13, Wednesday |
| May | Padmini Ekadashi | May 27, Wednesday |
| June | Parama Ekadashi | June 11, Thursday |
| June | Nirjala Ekadashi | June 25, Thursday |
| July | Yogini Ekadashi | July 10 or 11, depending on tradition |
| July | Devshayani Ekadashi | July 25, Saturday |
| August | Kamika Ekadashi | August 9, Sunday |
| August | Shravana Putrada Ekadashi | August 23 or 24, depending on tradition |
| September | Aja Ekadashi | September 7, Monday |
| September | Parsva Ekadashi | September 22, Tuesday |
| October | Indira Ekadashi | October 6, Tuesday |
| October | Papankusha Ekadashi | October 22, Thursday |
| November | Rama Ekadashi | November 5, Thursday |
| November | Devutthana Ekadashi | November 20 or 21, depending on tradition |
| December | Utpanna Ekadashi | December 4, Friday |
| December | Mokshada Ekadashi | December 20, Sunday |
Calendar reference: Drik Panchang’s 2026 Ekadashi list for Delhi. Some observances, particularly Yogini, Shravana Putrada and Devutthana Ekadashi, have different dates for Smarta and Vaishnava followers.
Important: The dates above are fasting dates, not a complete list of Parana times. The correct fast-breaking time must be calculated for the devotee’s location and tradition.
Image Caption: A traditional Hindu puja arrangement with a Vishnu image, flowers, a diya and a Panchang calendar for Ekadashi observances.
What Is Ekadashi and Why Is It Important?
Ekadashi means the eleventh lunar day, or tithi, in the Hindu lunar calendar. It occurs twice during most lunar months and holds special importance for devotees of Lord Vishnu.
Many people observe Ekadashi as a day of devotion, self-discipline, prayer and spiritual renewal. Fasting is one of its best-known practices, but the observance is not limited to avoiding food. Devotees may also read sacred texts, chant Vishnu’s names, perform puja, visit temples and offer food or other assistance to people in need.
The central purpose is to direct attention away from everyday distractions and toward spiritual practice.
The two types of Ekadashi
- Krishna Paksha Ekadashi: The eleventh lunar day during the waning Moon phase.
- Shukla Paksha Ekadashi: The eleventh lunar day during the waxing Moon phase.
Both are observed as sacred days. Their names, associated stories and regional customs differ throughout the year.
Who observes Ekadashi?
Ekadashi is observed by many Vaishnava devotees and other Hindus. Some people fast on every Ekadashi, while others observe particular days such as Nirjala, Devshayani or Vaikuntha Ekadashi.
The form of fasting depends on family customs, religious tradition, age, health and personal circumstances.
Ekadashi Vrat Timings 2026: How to Check the Correct Date
Knowing the name of an Ekadashi is only one part of preparing for the vrat. The beginning and ending of the lunar tithi help determine the correct observance date.
A tithi does not necessarily begin at midnight or last for a full calendar day. For this reason, the fasting date is determined according to traditional Panchang calculations rather than simply choosing the day on which the eleventh lunar day starts.
When checking the Ekadashi timings for 2026, pay attention to these details:
- Tithi begins: The lunar Ekadashi period starts.
- Tithi ends: The lunar Ekadashi period finishes.
- Vrat date: The day selected for fasting under the relevant tradition.
- Parana window: The permitted period for breaking the fast on the following day, subject to the applicable rules.
For a practical example, Drik Panchang lists Papankusha Ekadashi on October 22, 2026, in its Delhi calendar. The tithi begins on October 21 and ends on October 22. This illustrates why the tithi’s start date alone does not determine the fasting date.
Why do Ekadashi dates differ by location?
Local sunrise, the tithi’s duration and traditional rules can affect the observance date. Differences can also arise between Smarta and Vaishnava calendars.
If you live outside India, do not automatically use Indian Parana timings. Check a Panchang configured for your own city.
Ekadashi Parana 2026: When and How to Break the Fast
Parana is the ritual of ending the Ekadashi fast, generally on Dwadashi, the twelfth lunar day. It is an important part of the observance and should be planned alongside the fasting date.
Many traditional calendars specify a Parana window after sunrise on the following day. Depending on the particular observance, the lunar tithi and other timing rules, the permitted window may be relatively short.
How to observe Parana
- Check the correct Dwadashi date and local Parana window in advance.
- Complete any customary morning prayers or puja.
- Break the fast within the prescribed time, following your family’s or religious tradition’s guidance.
- Start with an appropriate, manageable meal rather than overeating after a long fast.
- Continue normal eating and hydration according to your needs.
Some calendars also account for Hari Vasara, a specific portion of Dwadashi during which Parana may be avoided. This is one reason a generic sunrise time is not always sufficient.
Sample Parana reference
| Ekadashi | Vrat date | General Parana day |
| Shattila | January 14 | January 15 |
| Vijaya | February 13 | February 14 |
| Kamada | March 29 | March 30 |
| Nirjala | June 25 | June 26 |
| Papankusha | October 22 | October 23 |
| Mokshada | December 20 | December 21 |
These are reference dates based on the common calendar pattern, not verified Parana windows for every city. Check the precise local time before observing the fast.
Image Caption: A simple Ekadashi Parana arrangement with fresh fruit, water and a clean puja space prepared for breaking the fast.
Important Ekadashi Vrat Dates and Their Significance
Although every Ekadashi is considered sacred by many devotees, some observances have particularly well-known stories and customs.
Shattila Ekadashi
Observed in January 2026, Shattila Ekadashi is associated with sesame seeds, known as til. In traditional observances, sesame may be used in offerings, charity, bathing rituals or food preparation.
The day is often connected with generosity, purification and the importance of giving.
Jaya Ekadashi
Jaya Ekadashi falls in January. Its traditional significance is associated with spiritual purification and freedom from negative influences. Devotees may spend the day chanting, praying and listening to religious stories.
Vijaya Ekadashi
Vijaya Ekadashi is observed in February. Its name is associated with victory, and the vrat is traditionally undertaken by devotees seeking strength, determination and divine guidance when facing challenges.
Amalaki Ekadashi
Amalaki Ekadashi is associated with the amla, or Indian gooseberry, which holds an important place in Hindu religious traditions. Customs may include worship, charitable acts and devotional activities.
Papamochani Ekadashi
Observed in March, Papamochani Ekadashi is associated with the idea of release from wrongdoing and spiritual purification. Devotees may reflect on their actions and renew their commitment to ethical living.
Kamada Ekadashi
Kamada Ekadashi is observed in March. Its traditional stories emphasize devotion, sincere prayer and the hope of overcoming difficulties through spiritual practice.
Varuthini Ekadashi
Varuthini Ekadashi falls in April. It is associated with protection, good conduct and the spiritual value of observing a disciplined vrat.
Mohini Ekadashi
Mohini Ekadashi is observed in April. The day is linked with the Mohini form of Lord Vishnu in Hindu mythology and is commonly associated with devotion and spiritual merit.
Nirjala Ekadashi
Nirjala Ekadashi, observed in June, is especially well known for its strict fasting tradition. Some devotees undertake a fast without food or water, but this practice is not suitable for everyone. People with medical conditions, those taking medication, pregnant people and anyone at risk from dehydration should seek appropriate medical advice and should not feel obliged to attempt a dry fast.
Devshayani Ekadashi
Devshayani Ekadashi falls in July. It marks an important point in the traditional Chaturmas period in many Hindu traditions. Devotees may increase their spiritual practices, observe dietary disciplines and spend more time in prayer.
Kamika Ekadashi
Observed in August, Kamika Ekadashi is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Worship, chanting, charitable giving and listening to religious accounts are common ways of observing the day.
Aja Ekadashi
Aja Ekadashi falls in September. Its traditional significance is associated with spiritual renewal and the hope of overcoming past mistakes through sincere devotion.
Indira Ekadashi
Indira Ekadashi is observed in October and is especially associated with prayers for departed ancestors in several Hindu traditions. Customs can vary by family and region.
Papankusha Ekadashi
Papankusha Ekadashi falls in October. Devotees often use the occasion for prayer, reflection and renewed commitment to spiritual discipline.
Rama Ekadashi
Rama Ekadashi is observed in November. It falls during the important Kartik period in many Hindu calendars and is associated with worship of Lord Vishnu and devotional observances.
Devutthana Ekadashi
Devutthana Ekadashi is also known as Prabodhini Ekadashi or, in some contexts, Utthana Ekadashi. It marks the traditional awakening of Lord Vishnu at the end of the Chaturmas period. The observance is associated with temple worship, religious ceremonies and, in some communities, the beginning of the traditional Hindu wedding season.
Mokshada Ekadashi
Mokshada Ekadashi falls in December and is associated with spiritual liberation. In many Hindu traditions, it is also linked with the Bhagavad Gita and Gita Jayanti observances.
These descriptions summarize common traditional associations. The details of each vrat may differ between regional calendars, scriptures and religious communities.
Ekadashi Fasting Rules and Preparation
Ekadashi fasting is not identical for every devotee. Some people abstain from grains and certain foods, while others observe a fruit-based fast or a stricter fast according to their tradition.
Preparation begins before the fasting day. Many devotees eat a simple meal, organize their puja materials and plan the next morning’s Parana.
Common fasting practices
- Avoid grains and cereals when required by your tradition.
- Choose permitted foods such as fruit, milk, nuts or other fasting foods if your chosen observance allows them.
- Drink water when your fasting practice permits it.
- Spend time in prayer, chanting, meditation or reading sacred texts.
- Avoid unnecessary arguments, harmful conduct and distractions.
- Plan Parana before beginning the fast.
Some devotees avoid beans, lentils, onions, garlic or particular ingredients as part of their family’s rules. Other practices vary by community, so consult a trusted religious guide if you are unsure.
Is a complete fast compulsory?
No single fasting method is suitable for everyone. A waterless fast is particularly demanding and can pose health risks. Children, older adults, pregnant or breastfeeding people, and those with diabetes, kidney problems or other medical conditions should not attempt restrictive fasting without appropriate professional guidance.
Spiritual observance can also involve prayer, charity and self-discipline without undertaking a physically unsafe fast.
Ekadashi Puja Vidhi: A Simple Worship Guide
A simple home puja can help devotees observe Ekadashi meaningfully without needing elaborate arrangements.
Step-by-step puja
- Prepare the space. Clean the prayer area and arrange a picture or image of Lord Vishnu.
- Bathe and dress. Begin the day with personal cleanliness and modest, comfortable clothing.
- Offer prayers. Light a diya if it is safe to do so, and offer flowers, water or other customary items.
- Chant Vishnu’s names. Recite a familiar Vishnu mantra or participate in devotional singing.
- Read religious texts. Some devotees read the Bhagavad Gita, Vishnu Sahasranama or the vrat story associated with that Ekadashi.
- Practice charity. Give food, support someone in need or perform another sincere act of kindness.
- Plan Parana. Check the next day’s correct fast-breaking time before resting.
You do not need expensive offerings to observe the day sincerely. Follow your family tradition and the instructions of your religious community.
Image Caption: A peaceful home altar arranged for Ekadashi puja with a diya, flowers, tulsi leaves and a devotional image of Lord Vishnu.
Ekadashi Food Rules: What Can You Eat?
Food restrictions vary according to the type of fast and the religious tradition being followed.
| Food or ingredient | Common practice |
| Grains such as rice and wheat | Avoided in many Ekadashi fasts |
| Regular bread and cereals | Usually avoided where grain restrictions apply |
| Fresh fruit | Commonly permitted in fruit-based fasts |
| Milk and dairy products | Commonly permitted, depending on personal practice |
| Nuts and selected fasting foods | Often permitted under particular traditions |
| Water | Generally permitted in non-dry fasts |
| Meals after Parana | Taken according to customary rules and personal needs |
This is a general guide, not a universal list of permitted foods. Ingredients, cooking methods and cross-contamination may matter to strict observers.
Meal ideas for a moderate fast
Depending on your tradition, suitable options may include fresh fruit, milk, plain yogurt or a simple meal prepared with permitted ingredients. Drink enough water if your fasting practice allows it.
Avoid treating a restrictive fast as a weight-loss plan. The purpose is religious observance, not extreme calorie restriction.
Ekadashi Calendar for ISKCON and Other Hindu Traditions
Different Hindu communities use different rules to determine their fasting days. This is particularly important for devotees who follow ISKCON or another Vaishnava tradition.
Smarta Ekadashi
Smarta calendars follow rules used by Smarta Hindu communities to determine the appropriate fasting date. Their dates can differ from Vaishnava dates when the tithi overlaps with sunrise or other relevant timing conditions.
Vaishnava and ISKCON Ekadashi
Vaishnava calendars apply rules specific to their traditions. ISKCON devotees often consult the organization’s local temple calendar or the relevant Gaurabda calendar for vrat and Parana information.
For example, the published ISKCON list for Bengaluru places Yogini Ekadashi on July 11, 2026, and lists Shravana Putrada Ekadashi on August 24. The Delhi Smarta calendar displays different observance arrangements for some of these days.
Which calendar should you follow?
Use the calendar recommended by your own religious community. If you attend a local temple, ask for its official Ekadashi and Parana schedule rather than combining dates from different systems.
Ekadashi Dates 2026 in Pakistan, the USA and Other Countries
Devotees living outside India should check the local calendar because the tithi and sunrise occur at different local times.
The same observance may fall on a different civil date depending on the city and the tradition used. For example, a calendar configured for Islamabad or Lahore can display different local tithi times from one configured for Delhi.
How to find the correct local Ekadashi date
- Open a reliable Hindu Panchang or temple calendar.
- Select your actual city or nearest supported location.
- Choose the year 2026.
- Confirm whether the calendar follows Smarta or Vaishnava rules.
- Check the fasting date, tithi start and end, and the following day’s Parana window.
- Verify any special observance instructions with your temple or religious authority.
This is especially important for people in Pakistan, North America, Europe and other regions where sunrise times differ significantly from those in India.
How to Plan Your Ekadashi Day
A simple schedule can make it easier to observe the vrat while balancing family responsibilities and daily activities.
| Time of day | Suggested activity |
| Previous evening | Prepare permitted foods and puja items; check local timings |
| Early morning | Bathe, pray and arrange the puja space |
| Morning | Perform puja, chant or read a sacred text |
| Afternoon | Rest as needed and continue permitted devotional activities |
| Evening | Attend temple prayers or perform a simple home puja |
| Following morning | Check the local Parana window and break the fast according to your tradition |
This is a flexible example, not a rule that every devotee must follow. People observing a strict fast should prioritize rest and avoid strenuous activities if they feel weak or unwell.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Following the Ekadashi Calendar
A few simple checks can help prevent confusion.
- Using the wrong city’s timings: Indian timings may not apply to your location.
- Confusing tithi start with vrat date: These can fall on different civil dates.
- Mixing Smarta and Vaishnava calendars: The observance dates may differ.
- Ignoring Parana: The day after Ekadashi is part of the traditional fasting observance.
- Assuming every fast must be waterless: Fasting methods vary, and extreme restrictions may be unsafe.
- Relying on an old calendar: Recheck dates and timings against a current Panchang.
- Forgetting local temple announcements: Special observances may follow a specific community calendar.
Useful Ekadashi Planning Checklist
Use this checklist before each vrat.
- Confirm the Ekadashi date for your city.
- Identify the name and significance of the observance.
- Check the tithi start and end times.
- Confirm which fasting tradition you follow.
- Prepare suitable food and puja materials.
- Plan rest, hydration and daily responsibilities.
- Check the next day’s Parana window.
- Follow any additional guidance from your temple or religious teacher.
A little preparation can help make the observance more peaceful and manageable.
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FAQs
What are the Ekadashi Dates 2026 for the whole year?
Ekadashi occurs twice during most lunar months, once in Shukla Paksha and once in Krishna Paksha. Check a reliable Hindu calendar for the complete 2026 schedule, including fasting dates and Parana timings.
How many Ekadashi fasts are there in Ekadashi Dates 2026?
There are generally 24 regular Ekadashi observances in a year, with additional observances possible during an Adhik Maas. The exact number depends on the Hindu lunar calendar.
What is the significance of Ekadashi Dates 2026 in Hinduism?
Ekadashi is a sacred day dedicated to Lord Vishnu in Hindu tradition. Devotees observe fasting, prayer, meditation, and charity to support their spiritual practice.
How can I check Ekadashi Dates 2026 with fasting timings?
Use a trusted Panchang that provides your city’s Ekadashi tithi, fasting date, and Parana time. Local sunrise and traditional observance rules can affect the correct fasting date.
What is Parana time in Ekadashi Dates 2026?
Parana is the traditional breaking of the Ekadashi fast, usually on the following Dwadashi day. Devotees should check the recommended local Parana window before ending their fast.
Why do Ekadashi Dates 2026 sometimes differ between calendars?
Differences may result from location, time zone, sunrise calculations, and regional observance traditions. Always consult a reliable Panchang for your city.
What is the difference between Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha Ekadashi in 2026?
Shukla Paksha Ekadashi falls during the waxing phase of the Moon, while Krishna Paksha Ekadashi occurs during its waning phase. Both are traditionally observed as sacred fasting days.
Can I observe Ekadashi Dates 2026 without eating food?
Fasting practices vary, and some devotees choose partial fasting rather than complete abstinence from food. Select a practice that suits your health and consult a healthcare professional if needed.
Which Lord is worshipped on Ekadashi Dates 2026?
Ekadashi is primarily dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is associated with preservation and protection in Hinduism. Devotees may chant Vishnu mantras, read sacred texts, and offer prayers.
What should I eat during Ekadashi fasting in 2026?
Depending on family and regional traditions, fasting foods may include fruits, milk, nuts, and certain permitted ingredients. Avoid foods prohibited by your chosen observance rules.
Can pregnant women observe Ekadashi fasts in 2026?
Pregnant women should prioritize their nutritional needs and avoid restrictive fasting unless their healthcare professional confirms it is appropriate. Prayer and other non-fasting forms of devotion are alternatives.
What happens if I miss Parana time on an Ekadashi date in 2026?
If you miss the recommended Parana window, follow the guidance of your family tradition or a knowledgeable priest. Avoid assuming that every calendar follows identical rules.
Are Ekadashi Dates 2026 the same in India and the USA?
Not always. Time zones, local sunrise, and regional Panchang calculations can affect the fasting date and Parana window, so use a location-specific calendar.
What is Nirjala Ekadashi in 2026?
Nirjala Ekadashi is a particularly significant observance traditionally associated with fasting without water. Because this practice can cause dehydration, it should not be attempted by people for whom it may be unsafe.
How should I prepare for Ekadashi fasting in 2026?
Learn the fasting rules followed by your family or religious tradition before the observance begins. Plan meals, prayer, rest, and the next day’s Parana timing in advance.
Can children observe Ekadashi fasts in 2026?
Children can participate in age-appropriate prayers and devotional activities without restrictive fasting. Their hydration, nutrition, growth, and health should always come first.
What prayers can I recite on Ekadashi Dates 2026?
Devotees may recite Vishnu mantras, chant the name of Lord Krishna, or read passages from sacred Hindu texts. Choose a practice that fits your tradition and personal devotion.
Is Ekadashi fasting necessary for every Hindu devotee in 2026?
No, fasting is a personal and tradition-dependent religious practice. Devotees may observe the day through prayer, charity, meditation, or temple visits instead.
Where can I find an accurate Ekadashi calendar for 2026?
Check a reputable Hindu Panchang website that lists Ekadashi dates, tithi details, and Parana timings. Confirm that the calendar uses your local city and time zone.
Why should I check Ekadashi Dates 2026 in advance?
Checking dates early helps you prepare for fasting, worship, and family observances. It also gives you time to confirm the correct local Parana window and avoid confusion between calendars.
Conclusion
Ekadashi Dates 2026 help devotees plan important fasting days, prayers, and religious observances throughout the year. By checking the complete calendar, you can learn when each Ekadashi falls and understand its spiritual significance. Knowing the fasting rules and Parana timings can make your observance more organized and meaningful. Always confirm the dates according to your location and family traditions. This simple preparation can help you observe each sacred day with devotion and peace of mind.
Use Ekadashi Dates 2026 as a reference when preparing for upcoming fasts and planning your devotional activities. Remember that the correct fasting date and Parana window may vary by location and traditional calendar calculations. Follow a trusted local Panchang and choose a fasting practice that supports your health and well-being. You can also use Ekadashi as an opportunity for prayer, charity, reflection, and spiritual growth. With thoughtful preparation, you can honor this important Hindu tradition throughout the year.
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