Chandra Grahan 2026: Timing and Viewing Tips for India

According to Indian time, the lunar eclipse on March 3, 2026, will occur from 3:20 PM to 6:46 PM. The Sutak period will commence 9 hours earlier, starting at 6:20 AM. This eclipse will be visible in India for only a few minutes. NASA indicates that most cities in India will begin to see the eclipse around 6:20 PM, with the phenomenon lasting approximately 20 to 25 minutes in various regions. However, the exact timing may vary from city to city.

Details of the Lunar Eclipse Timing
The beginning of the lunar eclipse (penumbral): 3:20 PM

Visibility in India: From around 6:20 PM to 6:46 PM

End of the lunar eclipse: The eclipse will conclude at 6:46 PM.

The Sutak period will start at 6:20 AM and will end with the conclusion of the eclipse at 6:46 PM.

Visibility in Major Indian Cities
This lunar eclipse will only be visible in certain states of India. The best views are expected in the northeastern regions, depending on clear skies and low pollution levels. For optimal viewing, it is advisable to go to open fields or elevated areas. During the eclipse, the moon will appear red, commonly referred to as a Blood Moon. Here’s the city-wise timing for the lunar eclipse:

Visibility Timing by City
City | Eclipse Start | Eclipse End
Delhi-NCR | 6:26 PM | 6:46 PM
Prayagraj | 6:08 PM | 6:46 PM
Kanpur | 6:14 PM | 6:46 PM
Varanasi | 6:04 PM | 6:46 PM
Itanagar | 5:07 PM | 6:46 PM
Patna | 5:55 PM | 6:46 PM
Ranchi | 5:55 PM | 6:46 PM
Kolkata | 5:43 PM | 6:46 PM
Chennai | 6:21 PM | 6:46 PM
Bengaluru | 6:32 PM | 6:46 PM
Hyderabad | 6:26 PM | 6:46 PM
Bhubaneswar | 5:54 PM | 6:46 PM
Guwahati | 5:27 PM | 6:46 PM

Precautions During the Lunar Eclipse
In Hinduism and astrology, lunar eclipses are considered inauspicious. Therefore, once the Sutak period begins, it is advised to refrain from eating, performing rituals, or engaging in any auspicious activities. Those whose zodiac signs are adversely affected by the eclipse are advised to avoid going out, undertaking risky tasks, or making significant decisions. Pregnant women should be particularly cautious during this time, avoiding going outside or using sharp objects, as it may negatively impact their health and that of their unborn child.

Can You View the Lunar Eclipse with the Naked Eye?
Yes, the lunar eclipse can be viewed without special glasses, unlike solar eclipses. Just ensure to choose a high and open location with minimal artificial light for the best viewing experience. By the time the moon becomes visible in India, it will have been eclipsed for about two and a half hours, giving it a slight reddish hue during moonrise.