Navratri 2026: The vibrant festival of Navratri is celebrated over nine days. While every day of Navratri holds special significance, Saptami, Ashtami, Navami and Vijayadashami are considered particularly
important. These days are marked by special worship of Goddess Durga, Kanya Pujan, havan and the breaking of Navratri fasts.
However, this year, devotees are facing considerable confusion regarding the dates of Ashtami and Navami.
Read More: Durga Puja 2026 Calendar: Dates, Schedule, Sandhi Puja Time And Significance
If you are also unsure about the correct dates from Maha Saptami to Dussehra, here is a look at the important dates and auspicious timings according to the Hindu calendar and astrological calculations.
When Is Navratri Saptami in 2026?
According to Drik Panchang, the Saptami tithi this year extends across October 17 and October 18. Therefore, devotees observing Ashtami Puja on October 18 should observe the Saptami fast on October 17. Those celebrating Ashtami on October 19 can observe the Saptami fast on October 18.
When Is Navratri Ashtami in 2026?
According to Drik Panchang, the Ashtami tithi in 2026 also extends across October 18 and October 19. While some calendar calculations favour observing Ashtami on October 19, certain astrological interpretations and scholars consider October 18 more auspicious for Maha Ashtami.
Ashtami during the Shukla Paksha of the Ashwin month is known as Moharatri. This tithi is associated with Nishita Vyapini, meaning that it prevails during the night-time period considered significant for worship.
For this reason, performing the principal Ashtami Puja, observing the fast and conducting special night-time rituals on Sunday, October 18 is auspicious.
The Ashtami tithi begins at 8:27 AM on October 18 and ends at 10:51 AM on October 19.
When Is Navratri Navami in 2026?
Maha Navami falls on Monday, October 19, 2026. The Navami tithi begins at 10:51 AM on October 19 and continues until 12:50 PM on October 20.
Devotees worship Goddess Siddhidatri on Navami and perform rituals such as Kanya Pujan and havan.
When Is Dashami in 2026?
Dashami falls on Tuesday, October 20, 2026. Many devotees conclude their Navratri fasts on this day. According to Drik Panchang, the fast-breaking period begins after 12:50 PM.
The Dashami tithi begins at 12:50 PM on October 20 and continues until 2:11 PM on October 21.
When Is Dussehra in 2026?
Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 20, 2026.
The auspicious Vijay Muhurat is from 1:59 PM to 2:45 PM, while the Aparahna Puja period is from 1:14 PM to 3:30 PM.
Devotees celebrate Vijayadashami as a symbol of the victory of good over evil. The day also marks the culmination of the Navratri festivities and is considered auspicious for prayers, religious observances and new beginnings.
