Chhath Puja 2026

Chhath Puja is an ancient festival primarily dedicated to the worship of the Sun and observed over four days. In 2026, Incredible India lists the celebration from Friday, November 13 through Monday, November 16, particularly in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. The observance includes preparation, fasting, purification, ritual bathing and offerings, culminating in two central moments: Arghya to the setting Sun on the afternoon of November 15 and Arghya to the rising Sun on the morning of November 16. Because these rituals follow the sunset and sunrise of each location, there is no single nationwide start time.

Four-day celebration

The 2026 celebration will run from November 13 to 16. The first day, Nahay Khay, is associated with preparation and purification; the second, Kharna, includes the completion of the preparation period and a ritual meal; the third day culminates with Arghya to the setting Sun; and the fourth concludes with Arghya to the rising Sun and the end of the fast.

Arghya to the Sun

The two most prominent moments of Chhath Puja are offerings to the Sun. Sandhya Arghya takes place at sunset on November 15, when devotees gather at riversides and ghats to offer water and ritual items to the setting Sun. At sunrise on November 16, Usha Arghya is offered to the rising Sun and marks the culmination of the festival.

Bihar and Uttar Pradesh

Chhath Puja has particularly strong traditions in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. During the festival, riverbanks, lakes and other bodies of water become central locations for the rituals. Communities gather at ghats, which may be decorated and illuminated as participants come together for the evening and morning ceremonies.

Times vary by location

Chhath Puja does not have one start time that applies across India. Sandhya Arghya takes place at local sunset on November 15, while Usha Arghya takes place at local sunrise on November 16. For example, in Patna, sunset on November 15 is expected at around 5:01 PM and sunrise the following morning at around 6:07 AM. Other cities have different times, so DaysToEvents does not assign a single nationwide start time.