Chaitra Navratri 2026 Date: Every year, Chaitra Navratri commences on the Pratipada Tithi of the Shukla Paksha (the bright fortnight) in the month of Chaitra. This marks the beginning of the worship of the nine forms of Goddess Durga, initiated with the installation of the Kalash. The duration of Navratri can vary, lasting for 8, 9, or 10 days depending on the lunar calendar. In the Gregorian calendar, this festival typically occurs in March or April. While Chaitra Navratri is significant, the Sharadiya Navratri is more widely celebrated, and there are also two Gupt Navratris each year. Notably, Ram Navami is observed on Mahanavami during Chaitra Navratri. Let’s explore the start date for Chaitra Navratri this year and the auspicious timing for Kalash installation.

As per the Druk Panchang, the Chaitra Shukla Pratipada Tithi will commence on Thursday, March 19, 2026.

Pratipada Tithi Begins - March 19, 2026, at 06:52 AM
Pratipada Tithi Ends - March 20, 2026, at 04:52 AM
On this day, devotees will observe the first fast of Navratri and perform the Kalash installation.

This year, there are two auspicious time slots for Kalash installation:
The first auspicious time is from 6:52 AM to 7:43 AM.
The second auspicious time is from 12:05 PM to 12:53 PM.
Those unable to perform Ghatasthapana in the morning can opt for the afternoon time.

On the first day of Chaitra Navratri, Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga will be present. Additionally, Shukla Yoga and Brahma Yoga will also be formed. Shukla Yoga will be effective until 1:17 AM, after which Brahma Yoga will take over. Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga will be observed on March 20 from 4:05 AM to 6:25 AM, during which Kalash Sthapana will take place.

Rahukaal will occur from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM on the first day of Chaitra Navratri, and it is advised to refrain from auspicious activities during this period.

Navratri Day, Date, and Main Puja
Day 1: March 19, 2026, Thursday, Amavasya/Pratipada, Ghatasthapana, Shailputri Puja
Day 2: March 20, 2026, Friday, Dwitiya, Brahmacharini Puja
Day 3: March 21, 2026, Saturday, Tritiya, Chandraghanta Puja
Day 4: March 22, 2026, Sunday, Chaturthi, Kushmanda Puja
Day 5: March 23, 2026, Monday, Panchami, Skandamata Puja
Day 6: March 24, 2026, Tuesday, Shashthi, Katyayani Puja
Day 7: March 25, 2026, Wednesday, Saptami, Kaalratri Puja, Maha Saptami
Day 8: March 26, 2026, Thursday, Ashtami, Mahagauri Puja, Durga Ashtami
Day 9: March 27, 2026, Friday, Navami, Navratri Parana

Chaitra Navratri, which begins on March 19, will conclude with Mahanavami and Parana on Friday, March 27. This year, the festival will be celebrated for a total of nine days.