Chhath Puja in 2026 begins with Nahay Khay on Friday, 13 November and concludes with Usha Arghya on Monday, 16 November. Sandhya Arghya, the main evening offering on Kartik Shukla Shashthi, falls on Sunday, 15 November.
Chhath Puja 2026 four-day calendar
| Day | Date | Observance | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Friday, 13 November | Nahay Khay | Bathing, purification and the opening meal |
| Day 2 | Saturday, 14 November | Kharna | Day-long fast, evening worship and prasad |
| Day 3 | Sunday, 15 November | Sandhya Arghya | Offering to the setting sun |
| Day 4 | Monday, 16 November | Usha Arghya | Offering to the rising sun and completion of the fast |
How these dates were verified
Incredible India, a Ministry of Tourism initiative, lists the 2026 festival from 13 to 16 November. Drik Panchang’s Patna calendar gives the same four-day sequence and identifies 15 November as the Sandhya Arghya day. The Government of India’s Controller of Communication Accounts in Bihar lists Usha Arghya on 16 November in its 2026 holiday calendar.
These sources agree on the civil dates. This page does not reproduce a single city’s sunrise or sunset time because that would be misleading for readers elsewhere.
Planning for the four days
Before Nahay Khay
Families generally prepare the home, kitchen, vessels and supplies before the formal observance begins. If you are supporting a vratin, ask what practical help is needed rather than assuming every household follows an identical checklist.
For the ghat
Confirm the route, local access arrangements and safety guidance in advance. Allow extra travel time, keep shared paths clear and avoid disposable material near the water. Community organisers may have specific instructions for baskets, lamps and designated areas.
For visitors
Arrive early, dress respectfully and remember that both arghyas are acts of worship. Avoid flash photography and do not step between devotees and the water during the offering.