2026 Amavasya Dates and Timings

Festival Dates

Amavasya 2026

Complete Calendar, Rituals, and Ancestral Guide

✨ Major Highlights of 2026

Mauni Amavasya (Jan 18) One of the most sacred days in the Hindu calendar. Devotees often observe a Maun Vrat (vow of silence) and take a holy dip in the Ganga.
Somvati Amavasya When Amavasya falls on a Monday, it is exceptionally auspicious for married women and ancestor rites. In 2026, these fall on June 15 and November 9.
Shani Amavasya Amavasya falling on a Saturday is dedicated to Lord Shani. In 2026, these occur on May 16 and October 10.
Mahalaya Amavasya (Oct 10) The final day of Pitru Paksha, dedicated to performing Shraddha and Tarpan for all ancestors.
Diwali Amavasya (Nov 9) The new moon of the Kartika month, celebrated with Lakshmi Puja to welcome prosperity.

📅 Complete Amavasya 2026 Dates

Date Day Occasion Reminder
Jan 18SunMauni Amavasya+ Google
Feb 17TuePhalguna Amavasya+ Google
Mar 19ThuChaitra Amavasya+ Google
Apr 17FriVaishakha Amavasya+ Google
May 16SatShani Amavasya+ Google
Jun 15MonSomvati (Adhik)+ Google
Jul 14TueAshadha Amavasya+ Google
Aug 12WedShravana Amavasya+ Google
Sep 11FriBhadrapada Amavasya+ Google
Oct 10SatMahalaya Amavasya+ Google
Nov 09MonDiwali (Kartika)+ Google
Dec 08TueMargashirsha Amavasya+ Google
Jan 07ThuPausha Amavasya+ Google

🕉️ Rituals & Spiritual Practices

1. Pitru Tarpan: Face South and offer water with black sesame seeds to ancestors.

2. Holy Bath: Rise before sunrise and add Gangajal to your bath to purify the soul.

3. Deep Daan: Light mustard oil lamps to remove darkness and receive Shani Dev's blessings.

4. Charity (Daan): Donate rice, lentils, or black clothes to the needy.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Why are there 13 Amavasyas in 2026?

2026 includes an Adhik Maas (extra lunar month). This leap month is added to the Hindu calendar every three years to align the lunar cycle with the solar year, resulting in an additional Amavasya.

What is the best time to perform Tarpan on Amavasya?

The best time for Pitru Tarpan is during the Kutup Muhurta or Rohina Muhurta, which typically falls around noon. Performing rituals during this period is believed to directly reach the ancestors.

Is Amavasya auspicious for starting a new job or business?

According to Vedic astrology, Amavasya is a "Tithi" meant for spiritual activities and honoring the deceased. It is generally advised to avoid starting major material ventures or signing new contracts on this day.

Which Amavasya is best for Shani Dosha remedies in 2026?

Any Shani Amavasya (Amavasya falling on a Saturday) is ideal. In 2026, these dates are May 16 and October 10. Lighting a mustard oil lamp under a Peepal tree on these days helps reduce the impact of Sade Sati.

What are the benefits of fasting on Amavasya?

Fasting on Amavasya helps in detoxifying the body and calming the mind. Spiritually, it is believed to reduce the intensity of "Pitru Dosha" and bring mental clarity and peace to the practitioner.