Diwali 2026: Unique Dates and Auspicious Timings for Celebrations

Diwali 2026 promises to be a unique celebration with significant dates and rituals. This year, Diwali falls on November 8, coinciding with Choti Diwali, while Govardhan Puja will be observed two days later on November 10. Understanding the auspicious timings for Dhanteras, Diwali, and Govardhan Puja is crucial for devotees. Explore the key dates and rituals to ensure a joyous and prosperous celebration this festive season.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 5, 2026, 17:23 IST

Diwali 2026 Overview

Diwali 2026: The festival of Diwali holds significant importance in Hinduism. This festival of lights begins with Dhanteras and concludes with Bhai Dooj. In 2026, the dates for the Diwali celebrations are particularly noteworthy. Diwali will be celebrated on November 8, while Govardhan Puja will take place on November 10. Typically, Govardhan Puja is observed the day after Diwali, but this year, due to the alignment of dates, there will be a one-day gap.

Why is Govardhan Puja Celebrated Over Two Days?

According to the Hindu calendar, Govardhan Puja is celebrated on the Pratipada Tithi of Kartik Shukla. In 2026, the Amavasya Tithi will last until 12:31 PM on November 9. Following this, the Pratipada Tithi will commence, which will extend until 2 PM on November 10.

Since Amavasya will be in effect at sunrise on November 9, Govardhan Puja will not be performed that day. Therefore, it will be celebrated on November 10, Tuesday, as per the calendar. This explains the one-day difference between Diwali and Govardhan Puja this year.

Key Dates for Diwali and Related Festivals

The important dates for the Diwali festival are as follows:

Dhanteras: November 6, 2026, Friday

Narak Chaturdashi and Choti Diwali: November 8, 2026, Sunday

Diwali and Lakshmi Puja: November 8, 2026, Sunday

Govardhan Puja: November 10, 2026, Tuesday

Bhai Dooj: November 11, 2026, Wednesday

This year, Choti Diwali and the main Diwali will fall on the same day, while Govardhan Puja will be celebrated two days later.

Auspicious Timing for Dhanteras Puja

Dhanteras will be celebrated on November 6. On this day, devotees worship Lord Dhanvantari, Goddess Lakshmi, and Kuber. It is also a tradition to purchase gold, silver, and utensils during this festival.

According to the calendar in New Delhi, the auspicious time for Dhanteras Puja is from 6:02 PM to 7:57 PM. However, timings may vary based on local calendars in different cities.

Auspicious Timing for Lakshmi Puja on Diwali

Diwali will be celebrated on November 8, Sunday. On this day, homes and temples will be adorned with prayers to Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi. It is believed that worshipping Lakshmi on Diwali night brings prosperity and happiness to the household.

The auspicious time for Lakshmi Puja in New Delhi is from 5:54 PM to 7:50 PM. The Pradosh period is particularly significant for this ritual.

Auspicious Timing for Govardhan Puja

Govardhan Puja will be observed on November 10, Tuesday. On this day, devotees worship Lord Krishna, the Govardhan Hill, and cows. This celebration is also known as Annakut.

The morning auspicious time for Govardhan Puja in New Delhi is from 6:40 AM to 8:50 AM. During this puja, devotees offer Annakut as a feast to Lord Krishna.

Significance of the Unique Dates for Diwali

This year, the dates for the Diwali celebrations present a unique alignment. Both Diwali and Choti Diwali will occur on the same day, while Govardhan Puja will be celebrated two days later instead of the usual one day after Diwali.

It is essential for devotees to be aware of the correct dates and auspicious timings for the rituals. Before performing any religious ceremonies, it is advisable to confirm the timings according to the local calendar.