The ISKCON Ekadashi Calendar 2026-2027 is a helpful guide for devotees of Lord Krishna who want to follow Ekadashi fasting dates and plan their spiritual activities throughout the year. Ekadashi is an important day in the Hindu lunar calendar, observed through fasting, prayer, chanting, and devotional service. This calendar helps devotees identify important observance dates and prepare for religious activities in advance.
With the ISKCON Ekadashi Calendar 2026-2027, devotees can learn about the Ekadashi dates that follow traditional Vaishnava practices. Ekadashi occurs twice during most lunar months, once during the waxing moon phase and once during the waning moon phase. Many devotees use these sacred occasions to chant the Hare Krishna mantra, read spiritual scriptures, and strengthen their devotion to Lord Krishna.
The ISKCON Ekadashi Calendar 2026-2027 can also help you understand fasting rules and Dwadashi Parana timings. Parana refers to breaking the Ekadashi fast on the following Dwadashi day at the prescribed time. Since observance dates and timings can vary by location, it is important to check a reliable ISKCON or Vaishnava calendar for your city before planning your fast.
For beginners and regular devotees alike, the ISKCON Ekadashi Calendar 2026-2027 makes it easier to prepare for important observances such as Nirjala Ekadashi and Utpanna Ekadashi. You can plan suitable meals, organize your daily schedule, and make time for temple visits, meditation, and devotional reading. Always follow appropriate fasting guidance and consider your health when deciding how strictly to observe Ekadashi.
In this complete guide, the ISKCON Ekadashi Calendar 2026-2027 will help you explore fasting dates, traditional observance practices, Parana timings, and useful tips for following Ekadashi throughout the year. Whether you observe Ekadashi at home or participate in activities at your local ISKCON temple, understanding the calendar can make your spiritual routine more organized. Check location-specific dates and follow trusted Vaishnava guidance to observe each Ekadashi with devotion and care.
ISKCON Ekadashi Calendar 2026-2027: Complete Dates List
The following dates are based on the published ISKCON Bangalore and ISKCON Mayapur calendars. The list covers March 2026 through March 2027, the period shown in the published 2026-2027 calendar. Special observances may involve fasting on Dvadashi rather than Ekadashi itself.
| Month | Ekadashi date(s) | Observance |
| March 2026 | March 15, March 29 | Papamochani, Kamada |
| April 2026 | April 13, April 27 | Varuthini, Mohini |
| May 2026 | May 13, May 27 | Apara, Padmini |
| June 2026 | June 11, June 25 | Parama, Pandava Nirjala |
| July 2026 | July 11, July 25 | Yogini, Sayana |
| August 2026 | August 9, August 24 | Kamika, Pavitraropana |
| September 2026 | September 7, September 22 | Annada, Parsva |
| October 2026 | October 6, October 22 | Indira, Pasankusa |
| November 2026 | November 5, November 21 | Rama, Utthana |
| December 2026 | December 4, December 20 | Utpanna, Mokshada |
| January 2027 | January 3, January 19 | Saphala, Putrada |
| February 2027 | February 2, February 17 | Sat-tila, Bhaimi |
| March 2027 | March 4, March 18* | Vijaya, Amalaki-Vrata |
Source: The date of March 18 is listed on the Bangalore calendar; Mayapur lists Amalaki-Vrata Ekadashi on March 19. Confirm the date used by your local temple.
What Is Ekadashi in the ISKCON Tradition?
Ekadashi is the eleventh lunar day, or tithi, in each fortnight of the traditional Hindu lunar calendar. There are generally two Ekadashis in a lunar month: one during the waxing moon and one during the waning moon.
In ISKCON, Ekadashi is especially associated with devotion to Lord Krishna and Vishnu. Devotees often use the day to deepen their spiritual practice rather than focusing only on food restrictions.
Common observances include:
- Chanting the Hare Krishna maha-mantra.
- Reading the Bhagavad-gita or Srimad-Bhagavatam.
- Visiting an ISKCON temple for darshan and kirtan.
- Offering prayers and engaging in devotional service.
- Following the food restrictions recommended by their spiritual tradition.
The precise rules followed can vary by devotee, temple and personal circumstances.
Why Is the ISKCON Ekadashi Calendar Important?
A reliable calendar helps devotees prepare for upcoming fasting days and avoid confusion when an observance shifts to Dvadashi.
It is particularly helpful for people who work full-time, attend school, care for family members or live far from an ISKCON temple. Marking dates in advance makes it easier to arrange meals, plan temple visits and remember parana the following day.
The calendar also includes special observances. For example, ISKCON Bangalore marks certain days as special fasting observances, while the Mayapur calendar identifies Trisprsa Mahadvadasi alongside its Ekadashi entries. These distinctions matter when following the temple’s prescribed schedule.
Important Ekadashi Observances in 2026-2027
Some Ekadashi days are particularly well known in Vaishnava devotional life.
Also called Nirjala Ekadashi, this observance is associated with a particularly strict traditional fast. Some devotees abstain from both food and water, but this is not appropriate for everyone. Follow your spiritual authority and health needs rather than attempting a severe fast without guidance.
This Ekadashi is associated with spiritual liberation and is observed on the same date as Gita Jayanti in the Mayapur calendar. It is a meaningful occasion for reading the Bhagavad-gita, chanting and devotional reflection.
Also known in some traditions as Prabodhini Ekadashi, this day is linked with the awakening of Lord Vishnu. The published Mayapur calendar also identifies Trisprsa Mahadvadasi on this date, so devotees should follow their local temple’s fasting instructions.
Saphala Ekadashi is traditionally associated with spiritual success and devotional merit. Devotees may mark the day through prayer, scripture reading, kirtan and mindful observance of the fast.
Image caption: Devotees gather for kirtan, prayer and spiritual reflection during an Ekadashi observance.
How to Observe an ISKCON Ekadashi Fast
There is no need to make your first Ekadashi unnecessarily difficult. Many people begin with a manageable observance and learn the detailed rules from an experienced devotee or local temple.
Prepare the day before
- Check the correct Ekadashi date for your location.
- Plan suitable food in advance if you are following a food-based fast.
- Review your temple’s rules about grains, beans and other restricted foods.
- Set aside time for prayer, chanting or scripture reading.
Follow a suitable fasting practice
Depending on tradition and personal circumstances, devotees may follow different levels of fasting. Some abstain from grains and beans while eating permitted foods; others may choose a more restrictive fast.
Do not assume that every devotee follows the same rules. If you are pregnant, have diabetes, take medication, have another medical condition or are unsure whether fasting is safe, seek appropriate medical advice and choose a practice that protects your health.
Spend time in devotional activities
Ekadashi can include chanting, reading sacred texts, listening to spiritual talks, offering prayers and attending temple programs. Devotional service can be adapted to your schedule, including for people who cannot visit a temple in person.
Plan for the following morning
Parana is the prescribed period for breaking the fast. Check the local calendar for its date and time before you begin observing Ekadashi. Avoid assuming that sunrise alone always gives the complete timing.
What Is Parana? Understanding Ekadashi Fast-Breaking Timings
Parana means breaking the Ekadashi fast, generally on the following day according to the prescribed Vaishnava calendar.
The appropriate time depends on factors including the local sunrise, lunar tithi and rules for the particular observance. Some days also involve special arrangements, such as fasting on Dvadashi or observing a noon fast followed by a later feast.
| Calendar detail | What it means |
| Ekadashi date | The date assigned for the observance by the relevant calendar |
| Dvadashi | The twelfth lunar day, which can be important for parana or special fasting rules |
| Parana | The prescribed period for breaking the fast |
| Local sunrise | A factor used when calculating parana windows |
| Special observance | A day when the usual fasting pattern may differ |
For example, the Mayapur calendar publishes specific break-fast windows for its local observance. Those times should not be copied directly for a different city or country.
Practical tip: Before every Ekadashi, save both the fasting date and the next day’s parana window from your local ISKCON calendar.
How Ekadashi Dates Differ by City and Country
One of the most common sources of confusion is that the same Ekadashi may appear on different dates in different calendars. This does not necessarily mean one calendar is incorrect.
Vaishnava calendars use specific rules for selecting the observance day. The lunar tithi can begin or end at different local clock times, and sunrise-based calculations can affect the date assigned for fasting. Some special observances also move fasting to Dvadashi.
For instance, ISKCON Bangalore lists March 18, 2027, for its Amalaki-Vrata-related Ekadashi entry, whereas the ISKCON Mayapur calendar lists Amalaki-Vrata Ekadashi on March 19.
Use this simple guide when checking your calendar:
| Where you live | What to check |
| India | The calendar published by your local ISKCON temple |
| Pakistan | Local dates and parana timings from a trusted Vaishnava calendar |
| United States | The local temple’s calendar and time zone |
| United Kingdom | The relevant temple’s observance date and break-fast window |
| Other countries | A calendar calculated for your city rather than a generic worldwide list |
You can start with the For local practice, your nearest temple’s published instructions should take priority.
How to Use a Digital Ekadashi Calendar
A digital calendar can help you remember fasting days without checking a website every morning.
Follow these steps:
- Open a reliable ISKCON or Vaishnava calendar.
- Confirm that the dates cover 2026-2027.
- Select your city or local temple whenever that option is available.
- Add each Ekadashi date to your phone or computer calendar.
- Add a second reminder for parana the following day.
- Review any special fasting instructions before the observance.
The website provides downloadable calendar files, including ICS and text formats for 2026 and 2027. Its published information says the files use calculations from ISKCON-approved Gcal software, although the website itself is not sponsored by the GBC Calendar Committee.
If you import an ICS file, double-check that the dates and time zone match your local temple’s calendar.
Ekadashi Food Rules and Meal Planning
Food restrictions are an important part of many Ekadashi observances. In ISKCON practice, devotees generally avoid grains and beans on Ekadashi, following the guidance of their tradition. Exact rules about ingredients and meal preparation can vary, so check with your temple if you are uncertain.
| Food or meal idea | What to consider |
| Fresh fruit | Often used by devotees following a lighter fast |
| Milk or yogurt | May be included in some fasting practices, depending on personal tolerance and tradition |
| Potatoes and other permitted vegetables | Check that the preparation and ingredients comply with your observance |
| Nuts and seeds | Can be an option for some fasting practices; consider allergies and portion sizes |
| Grain-free home-cooked meals | Useful when preparing in advance, provided all ingredients are permitted |
| Water | Stay hydrated unless you are following a specific practice under appropriate guidance |
Avoid assuming that a product labelled “vegetarian” or “fasting food” automatically meets your temple’s rules. Check ingredients, including flour, starches, seasonings and processed food additives.
If a strict fast is medically unsuitable, do not compromise your health to follow a more demanding practice. Ask a qualified healthcare professional about fasting and your medication, and discuss an appropriate devotional alternative with your spiritual community.
Image caption: A simple vegetarian meal prepared in accordance with an individual’s Ekadashi fasting practice.
Visiting an ISKCON Temple on Ekadashi
Visiting an ISKCON temple can make the day more meaningful, especially if you are new to the tradition. Depending on the temple, visitors may be able to attend darshan, kirtan, spiritual talks or other devotional activities.
A major Gaudiya Vaishnava pilgrimage destination associated with Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Visitors can explore temple worship and the wider spiritual atmosphere of Mayapur. Check the official calendar and visitor information before travelling.
A prominent urban temple where devotees can consult the published Ekadashi calendar and check for local devotional programs. Confirm event timings directly before making a special visit.
For a temple visit, dress modestly, follow posted photography rules and respect the congregation’s worship. Do not assume that every temple holds the same program or serves the same food on every Ekadashi.
Image caption: An ISKCON temple provides a place for darshan, prayer, chanting and devotional association.
A Simple One-Day Ekadashi Itinerary
You do not need to travel to a pilgrimage destination to observe Ekadashi. A simple plan at home can help you make time for devotion while meeting your everyday responsibilities.
| Time of day | Suggested activity |
| Morning | Review the local fasting instructions, offer prayers and chant the Hare Krishna maha-mantra |
| Late morning | Read a passage from the Bhagavad-gita or Srimad-Bhagavatam |
| Afternoon | Continue devotional reading, listen to a spiritual lecture or perform suitable service |
| Early evening | Attend temple kirtan or join an online devotional program, if available |
| Night | Reflect on the day, complete your prayers and confirm the following day’s parana window |
| Next morning | Break the fast during the prescribed local parana period |
This is a flexible example, not a required schedule. Adapt it to your work, family obligations, health and the instructions of your spiritual community.
If you are travelling on Ekadashi, plan meals and transportation in advance, and avoid scheduling activities that make it difficult to follow your chosen practice.
Local Culture, Devotional Etiquette and Family Observance
Ekadashi is observed by devotees across many countries and communities. Although the central emphasis is devotional service, family customs, temple programs and food practices can differ.
If you are attending a temple for the first time:
- Ask a temple representative about the day’s program and fasting arrangements.
- Follow local rules for footwear, clothing and photography.
- Keep your phone silent during prayers and spiritual talks.
- Be considerate of people who are chanting or meditating.
- Teach children about the meaning of the observance in an age-appropriate way.
- Avoid pressuring relatives or visitors to follow a fasting practice they have not chosen.
Families can mark the day through shared reading, prayer, permitted meals and acts of service. People who cannot fast can still participate in devotional activities according to their circumstances.
The aim is to make the observance thoughtful and spiritually meaningful, rather than treating the calendar as a checklist of food restrictions alone.
Safety and Practical Tips for Ekadashi
A little preparation can prevent confusion and make fasting more manageable.
Check the calendar twice. Confirm both the observance date and parana time. A general Hindu festival calendar may not follow the same rules as your local ISKCON calendar.
Plan food and water. Prepare suitable meals before the fast begins, and follow a safe hydration plan. Avoid strict dry fasting if it could endanger your health.
Consider medications. Do not change prescribed medicines or their timing without medical guidance.
Make temple visits practical. Check the current program, transport availability, accessibility arrangements and visitor rules before leaving home.
Avoid relying on copied timings. Sunrise and parana windows vary by location and date. A time printed for Mayapur or Bengaluru may not apply in another city.
Use trustworthy resources. Start with an ISKCON temple or an established Vaishnava calendar, and resolve discrepancies with your local temple rather than relying on an unverified social media post.
Packing Checklist for an Ekadashi Temple Visit
If you are visiting an ISKCON temple or travelling during an Ekadashi observance, keep your preparations simple.
- Phone with the local Ekadashi calendar saved
- Note of the fasting date and parana window
- Modest, comfortable clothing
- Drinking water, where permitted by your fasting practice
- Suitable food or snacks if needed
- Required medication and medical supplies
- Phone charger or power bank
- Transport details and the temple’s contact information
- A small copy of a prayer book or digital scripture
- Any personal items required for accessibility or comfort
You do not need special travel equipment simply to observe Ekadashi at home. This checklist is intended for people who want to combine the observance with a temple visit or a day away from home.
FAQs
What is the ISKCON Ekadashi Calendar 2026-2027?
The ISKCON Ekadashi Calendar 2026-2027 lists Ekadashi fasting dates observed by devotees in the International Society for Krishna Consciousness tradition. It helps devotees plan fasting, prayers, and devotional activities throughout the year.
How can I check Ekadashi dates in the ISKCON Ekadashi Calendar 2026-2027?
You can consult an official ISKCON calendar or a trusted Vaishnava calendar website. Select your city or region because fasting dates and observance timings may differ by location.
What is Ekadashi, and why is it important in ISKCON?
Ekadashi is the eleventh lunar day of each waxing and waning lunar fortnight. ISKCON devotees observe it through fasting, chanting the Hare Krishna mantra, prayer, and devotional service.
How many Ekadashi fasts are observed in the ISKCON Ekadashi Calendar 2026-2027?
There are generally two Ekadashi observances in each lunar month, one during Shukla Paksha and another during Krishna Paksha. The exact calendar dates depend on lunar calculations and local observance rules.
What time does Ekadashi fasting begin according to ISKCON?
Devotees generally observe the fast on the prescribed Ekadashi day, following the relevant Vaishnava calendar. The exact observance and fasting instructions should be checked against local ISKCON guidance.
When should devotees break their Ekadashi fast?
Devotees traditionally break the fast on Dwadashi, the lunar day following Ekadashi, during the prescribed Parana time. Always check local timings and the specific instructions provided by your ISKCON temple.
What is Parana in the ISKCON Ekadashi Calendar 2026-2027?
Parana is the traditional process of breaking an Ekadashi fast. The calendar provides the appropriate Dwadashi timing so devotees can complete their observance according to Vaishnava guidelines.
Does the ISKCON Ekadashi Calendar 2026-2027 include Nirjala Ekadashi?
Yes, the calendar generally includes Nirjala Ekadashi, an important observance associated with strict fasting. Devotees should follow suitable guidance and consider their health before attempting a waterless fast.
What foods can I eat on ISKCON Ekadashi?
Many ISKCON devotees avoid grains and beans during Ekadashi and follow specific Vaishnava fasting guidelines. Permitted foods can vary according to the observance, so consult your local temple for details.
Can beginners follow the ISKCON Ekadashi Calendar 2026-2027?
Yes, beginners can use the calendar to learn fasting dates and devotional practices. Start with a fasting routine appropriate for your health and seek guidance from experienced devotees if needed.
Why do ISKCON Ekadashi dates differ between cities?
Ekadashi observance depends on lunar calculations, local sunrise, time zones, and Vaishnava calendar rules. As a result, the date followed in one city may differ from the date followed elsewhere.
What is the difference between Smarta and ISKCON Ekadashi dates?
Smarta and Vaishnava traditions can use different rules to determine Ekadashi fasting days. ISKCON generally follows Vaishnava observance guidelines, so its dates may differ from those in some general Hindu calendars.
How can I find ISKCON Ekadashi dates for the USA?
Check a trusted ISKCON calendar that provides dates for your US city or region. Local time zones and sunrise calculations can affect fasting and Parana timings.
Does the ISKCON Ekadashi Calendar 2026-2027 include fasting rules?
Many ISKCON calendars provide Ekadashi dates along with fasting and Parana information. For detailed food restrictions, prayer practices, and exceptions, consult official devotional guidance.
What devotional activities can I do on Ekadashi?
Devotees often chant the Hare Krishna mantra, read Bhagavad-gita or Srimad-Bhagavatam, attend temple programs, and perform devotional service. The day is traditionally dedicated to increased spiritual focus.
Can I observe Ekadashi if I cannot fast completely?
Devotees who cannot follow a strict fast may seek guidance on an appropriate alternative. Health, medication, age, and individual circumstances should be considered rather than attempting an unsafe fast.
Is the ISKCON Ekadashi Calendar 2026-2027 available online?
Yes, you can find Ekadashi dates through official ISKCON websites and trusted Vaishnava calendar resources. Verify that the calendar covers both 2026 and 2027 and matches your location.
What is the significance of Utpanna Ekadashi in ISKCON?
Utpanna Ekadashi is a traditional observance associated with the origin and spiritual significance of Ekadashi. Devotees observe it through fasting, prayer, chanting, and remembrance of Lord Krishna.
How should I prepare for Ekadashi fasting?
Review the fasting date and Parana time in advance, plan suitable meals, and make time for prayer and chanting. Follow a fasting level that is appropriate for your health and personal circumstances.
Where can I find the complete ISKCON Ekadashi Calendar 2026-2027?
Look for a trusted ISKCON or Vaishnava calendar covering the full period from 2026 through 2027. Choose your location to confirm the correct fasting dates and Dwadashi Parana timings.
Conclusion
The ISKCON Ekadashi Calendar 2026-2027 is a helpful resource for devotees who want to follow Ekadashi fasting dates and plan their spiritual activities throughout the year. It helps you keep track of important observances, prepare for fasting, and understand the significance of devotional practices. By checking the calendar in advance, you can organize your daily routine around prayer, chanting, and temple activities. Always confirm the dates and timings for your location. This simple step can help you follow your devotional schedule with greater confidence.
Whether you are a regular devotee or new to Krishna consciousness, the ISKCON Ekadashi Calendar 2026-2027 can support your spiritual planning. Pay special attention to fasting instructions and Dwadashi Parana timings, as these are important parts of the observance. Follow guidance from your local ISKCON temple whenever you are unsure about a particular date or fasting rule. Remember to choose a fasting practice that supports your health and well-being. With thoughtful preparation, Ekadashi can become a meaningful opportunity for prayer, devotion, and spiritual growth.
Read More: Aja Ekadashi Vrat 2026: Date, Puja Vidhi, Fasting Rules and Parana Muhurat
