How many Ekadashis are there in 2026?

There are 24 Ekadashis in 2026 — two per Hindu month (one Shukla Paksha, one Krishna Paksha). Each Ekadashi has a unique name and significance.

Ekadashi is the 11th lunar day (Tithi) of each fortnight in the Hindu calendar. Fasting on Ekadashi is believed to cleanse sins, improve health, and bring spiritual merit. It is one of the most widely observed fasts in Hinduism, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Which is the most important Ekadashi?

Nirjala Ekadashi (Jyeshtha Shukla) is considered the most meritorious — observed without water for 24 hours. Devshayani and Devuthani Ekadashi mark when Vishnu sleeps and wakes. Mokshada/Vaikuntha Ekadashi (Margashirsha Shukla) grants moksha.

Ekadashi Dates 2026 — Complete List of 24 Ekadashi Vrat

एकादशी व्रत तिथियाँ 2026 — सम्पूर्ण सूची

Ekadashi (एकादशी) is the 11th Tithi of each lunar fortnight, occurring twice a month — once in Shukla Paksha (waxing moon) and once in Krishna Paksha (waning moon). Fasting on Ekadashi is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is believed to purify the body and mind. Below are all 24 Ekadashi dates for 2026.

DateEkadashi NamePakshaHindu Month

Thu, 15 Jan, 2026Shattila (षटतिला)🌑 KrishnaMagha

Fri, 30 Jan, 2026Jaya (जया)🌕 ShuklaMagha

Sat, 14 Feb, 2026Papmochani (पापमोचनी)🌑 KrishnaPhalguna

Sat, 28 Feb, 2026Vijaya (विजया)🌕 ShuklaPhalguna

Mon, 16 Mar, 2026Papamochani (पापमोचनी)🌑 KrishnaChaitra

Mon, 30 Mar, 2026Kamada (कामदा)🌕 ShuklaChaitra

Tue, 14 Apr, 2026Varuthini (वरुथिनी)🌑 KrishnaVaishakha

Tue, 28 Apr, 2026Mohini (मोहिनी)🌕 ShuklaVaishakha

Thu, 14 May, 2026Apara (अपरा)🌑 KrishnaJyeshtha

Thu, 28 May, 2026Nirjala (निर्जला)🌕 ShuklaJyeshtha

Fri, 12 Jun, 2026Yogini (योगिनी)🌑 KrishnaAshadha

Fri, 26 Jun, 2026Nirjala (निर्जला)🌕 ShuklaJyeshtha

Sat, 11 Jul, 2026Yogini (योगिनी)🌑 KrishnaAshadha

Sun, 26 Jul, 2026Devshayani (देवशयनी)🌕 ShuklaAshadha

Mon, 10 Aug, 2026Kamika (कामिका)🌑 KrishnaShravana

Mon, 24 Aug, 2026Putrada (पुत्रदा)🌕 ShuklaShravana

Tue, 8 Sept, 2026Aja (अजा)🌑 KrishnaBhadrapada

Wed, 23 Sept, 2026Parivartini (परिवर्तिनी)🌕 ShuklaBhadrapada

Wed, 7 Oct, 2026Papankusha (पापांकुशा)🌑 KrishnaAshwina

Fri, 23 Oct, 2026Indira (इन्दिरा)🌕 ShuklaAshwina

Fri, 6 Nov, 2026Rama (रमा)🌑 KrishnaKartika

Sat, 21 Nov, 2026Devuthani (देवुत्थानी)🌕 ShuklaKartika

Sat, 5 Dec, 2026Utpanna (उत्पन्ना)🌑 KrishnaMargashirsha

Mon, 21 Dec, 2026Mokshada (मोक्षदा)🌕 ShuklaMargashirsha

Types of Ekadashi

Each of the 24 Ekadashis has a unique name and spiritual significance. Nirjala Ekadashi (Jyeshtha Shukla) is the strictest — observed without even water for 24 hours. Its merit equals observing all 24 Ekadashis combined. Devshayani Ekadashi (Ashadha Shukla) marks the beginning of Chaturmas when Lord Vishnu goes to sleep — no auspicious ceremonies are performed until Devuthani Ekadashi (Kartika Shukla) when He awakens.

Mokshada Ekadashi (Margashirsha Shukla), also known as Vaikuntha Ekadashi in South India, is believed to open the gates of Vaikuntha (Vishnu's abode). In many temples, a special door called Vaikuntha Dwaram is opened only on this day.

Fasting rules: Ekadashi fast begins on Dashami sunset and ends on Dwadashi after sunrise (Parana time). Devotees avoid grains, beans, and certain vegetables. Some observe Nirjala (waterless) fast while others take fruits and milk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drink water during Ekadashi fast?

Yes, most Ekadashi fasts allow water, fruits, milk, and nuts. Only Nirjala Ekadashi is observed completely without water. Choose the level of fasting that suits your health and devotion.

What foods are prohibited on Ekadashi?

Grains (rice, wheat), pulses (dal), onion, garlic, and masoor dal are strictly prohibited. Rock salt (sendha namak) is used instead of regular salt. Fruits, milk, potato, and sabudana are commonly consumed.

When should I break my Ekadashi fast (Parana)?

Ekadashi fast is broken on Dwadashi (12th Tithi) after sunrise, within the Parana window. The exact Parana time depends on Dwadashi and Hari Vasara timings — check your local panchang for precise timings.