When Is Amavasya in November 2026? Date, Timings, Significance & Rituals
Amavasya, also known as the New Moon Day, holds an important place in the Hindu lunar calendar. It is a day associated with spiritual reflection, prayer, charity, and remembrance of ancestors. Many devotees observe Amavasya by performing Tarpan, Shraddh, Pind Daan, and other traditional rituals for the peace and well-being of their departed family members.
In Hindu tradition, Amavasya is considered especially significant for Pitru Karya, or ancestral rites. Devotees visit sacred rivers and pilgrimage destinations to offer prayers, donate food, and seek blessings for their families. The day is also observed through fasting, meditation, and worship of deities according to family traditions.
In November 2026, Amavasya falls during the sacred month of Kartika. This occasion is particularly noteworthy because it is associated with Somvati Amavasya, the Amavasya that falls on a Monday.
Let us explore the exact date and timings of Amavasya in November 2026, its religious significance, the rituals devotees can perform, and how you can arrange Amavasya Puja with MahaTarpan.
When Is Amavasya in November 2026?
According to the Hindu Panchang for Varanasi, Kartika Amavasya will be observed on Monday, 9 November 2026, when the Amavasya tithi is present at sunrise.
The Amavasya tithi begins on Sunday, 8 November 2026, and continues into Monday, 9 November 2026.
Amavasya November 2026: Date and Timings
Amavasya date:Ā Monday, 9 November 2026
Tithi begins:Ā Sunday, 8 November 2026, at 11:27 AM
Tithi ends:Ā Monday, 9 November 2026, at 12:31 PM
Hindu lunar month:Ā Kartika
Special observance:Ā Somvati Amavasya
Timings:Ā Indian Standard Time (IST), based on Varanasi Panchang
These timings are based on the Varanasi calendar published by Drik Panchang. Local Panchang calculations and observance traditions may differ by location. Confirm the appropriate muhurta with a local priest before performing a ritual.
Key takeaway:Ā Monday morning, 9 November 2026, is an important period for Amavasya observances in Varanasi because the tithi continues after sunrise and ends around midday.
Why Is Kartika Amavasya Special?
Kartika is regarded as a spiritually significant month in Hindu tradition. Devotees observe this period through prayer, temple visits, lighting of lamps, charity, and sacred bathing.
Amavasya is traditionally associated with remembering ancestors and performing rites for their spiritual welfare. When Amavasya falls on a Monday, it is known as Somvati Amavasya. Monday is associated with Lord Shiva, making the occasion significant for devotees who observe Shiva worship alongside their customary Amavasya rituals.
Kartika Amavasya is also closely associated with Diwali in the Hindu calendar. In 2026, the principal Diwali observance falls on Sunday, 8 November, while the Amavasya tithi continues into Monday, 9 November.
Devotional observances may include:
Offering Tarpan to departed ancestors.
Performing Shraddh according to family tradition.
Arranging Pind Daan for ancestral peace.
Taking a holy bath in a sacred river.
Donating food, clothes, and other necessities.
Lighting lamps and offering prayers to the deities.
For families who follow ancestral worship traditions, this period offers an opportunity to express gratitude, remember departed relatives, and fulfil customary religious duties.
Amavasya and Ancestor Worship (Pitru Karya)
In Hindu tradition, Amavasya is an important occasion for Pitru Karya, the religious observances performed in remembrance of departed ancestors. Many families perform these rites regularly on Amavasya, especially when they wish to honour their forefathers or fulfil customary Shraddh obligations.
The principal rituals include the following.
1. Tarpan
Tarpan is a traditional offering of water, often accompanied by black sesame seeds and sacred grass, according to the prescribed ritual. The performer remembers the ancestors and offers prayers for their peace.
2. Pind Daan
Pind Daan involves offering symbolic rice or other prescribed pindas as part of ancestral rites. It is traditionally performed with appropriate Sankalp and prayers for departed family members.
3. Shraddh
Shraddh is a collection of religious observances performed in honour of ancestors. Depending on the family tradition and the guidance of the priest, it may include offerings, mantras, Brahmin Bhojan, and charity.
4. Brahmin Bhojan and Daan
Many families offer food to Brahmins and donate food, clothes, or other essentials to people in need. These acts express gratitude, generosity, and remembrance.
Devotees commonly visit sacred pilgrimage destinations such as Varanasi, Gaya, Haridwar, and Prayagraj to perform these rites.
Amavasya Rituals in Varanasi (Kartika Amavasya 2026)
Varanasi, also known as Kashi, is one of the most revered pilgrimage destinations in Hinduism. The sacred River Ganga and the city's ancient temples make it an important destination for devotees seeking to perform traditional religious ceremonies.
If you plan to observe Kartika Amavasya in Varanasi on 9 November 2026, consider the following rituals.
1. Morning Snan (Holy Bath)
Many devotees begin the day with a bath before sunrise. Those visiting Varanasi may take a holy dip in the Ganga, subject to river conditions and local safety guidance.
A sacred bath is traditionally associated with purification and the beginning of the day's prayers.
2. Tarpan and Shraddh
Tarpan is performed by offering water and other prescribed materials while remembering departed ancestors. The Sankalp may include the performer's name, gotra, and the names or relationships of the ancestors, according to the relevant ritual tradition.
MahaTarpan helps families arrange traditional ancestral rites with priests in Varanasi.
3. Pind Daan
Pind Daan is an important ancestral rite in which symbolic offerings are made with prayers for the departed. The specific procedure depends on the family's customs, the purpose of the ritual, and the priest's guidance.
Families who cannot travel to Kashi may enquire about arranging the ceremony remotely.
4. Daan and Brahmin Bhojan
Charity is an important part of many Hindu observances. Devotees may donate food, clothes, or other necessities and arrange Brahmin Bhojan according to their family traditions.
5. Shiva Worship and Lighting of Lamps
Because the occasion is Somvati Amavasya, devotees may also worship Lord Shiva. Lighting a diya and offering prayers are common devotional practices. Follow your family's customary procedure or seek guidance from a qualified priest.
Best Places for Amavasya Puja in Varanasi
Devotees visiting Kashi may enquire about performing ancestral rites at suitable locations along the Ganga, subject to local permissions and ritual arrangements.
Some well-known locations include:
Kedar Ghat:Ā A prominent ghat visited by pilgrims for religious observances.
Dashashwamedh Ghat:Ā One of Varanasi's best-known riverfront ghats.
Assi Ghat:Ā A popular destination for morning prayers and riverfront rituals.
Harishchandra Ghat:Ā A historic cremation ghat with a significant place in Varanasi's religious landscape.
The appropriate location depends on the ritual being performed and the priest's advice. Not every ghat is suitable for every ceremony, so confirm the arrangements in advance.
Online Amavasya Puja with MahaTarpan
Not everyone can travel to Varanasi, Gaya, Haridwar, or Prayagraj for Amavasya. Work commitments, distance, age, and family responsibilities may make an in-person visit difficult.
MahaTarpan offers online and on-site ritual arrangements for families who wish to observe traditional ancestral rites.
Services You Can Enquire About
Online Shraddh and Tarpan
Pind Daan on Amavasya
Brahmin Bhojan and Daan Seva
Ancestral rituals in Varanasi
Personalised Sankalp using supplied family details
Ritual photographs and video recordings, where included in the selected package
Ritual procedures and deliverables depend on the service booked. Share the yajman's name, gotra, and available ancestor details in advance so the priest can discuss the appropriate arrangements.
How to Book Online Amavasya Puja
Visit the MahaTarpan website.
Select the ritual you wish to arrange.
Share the yajman's name, gotra, and relevant family details.
Confirm the date, location, inclusions, and price with the team.
Receive confirmation of the ritual arrangements.
Plan your Amavasya Puja with MahaTarpan:Ā Visit https://www.mahatarpan.com/Ā to explore the available services.
Offline Amavasya Puja in Varanasi, Haridwar, Gaya, and Prayagraj
For devotees who wish to participate in person, MahaTarpan can be contacted to enquire about ancestral ritual arrangements at major pilgrimage destinations.
Varanasi
Perform traditional Tarpan, Shraddh, and Pind Daan with arrangements suited to the selected ritual and location.
Haridwar
Haridwar is a prominent pilgrimage destination where devotees visit the Ganga and perform customary religious observances.
Gaya
Gaya is especially renowned for ancestral rites and Pind Daan associated with the religious traditions of the Vishnupad Temple and the Phalgu River.
Prayagraj
Prayagraj is known for the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the traditionally revered Saraswati.
Contact MahaTarpan in advance to confirm priest availability, the appropriate location, package inclusions, and booking terms for 9 November 2026.
Spiritual Significance of Amavasya Rituals
The following table summarises the traditional purpose of common Amavasya observances.
Ritual | Traditional significance |
Tarpan | Expressing reverence and making offerings to ancestors |
Pind Daan | Performing prescribed rites for departed family members |
Shraddh | Honouring ancestors through prayers and offerings |
Brahmin Bhojan | Offering food as part of customary religious observances |
Daan | Practising generosity and charity |
Shiva Puja | Expressing devotion to Lord Shiva on Somvati Amavasya |
Lighting a Diya | Symbolising devotion, hope, and spiritual light |
The spiritual benefits associated with these practices are matters of Hindu religious belief and tradition.
Amavasya Vrat: Fasting and Meditation
Some devotees observe a vrat on Amavasya as an expression of devotion and self-discipline. Practices differ across regions, households, and religious traditions.
Common observances include:
Eating simple, sattvic food or fasting according to personal practice.
Chanting āOm Namah Shivayaā or other traditional mantras.
Offering prayers and lighting a diya.
Spending time in meditation, reflection, or reading sacred texts.
Donating food or helping people in need.
Fasting is a personal religious choice. Anyone with medical conditions or dietary restrictions should follow appropriate professional advice rather than undertake a restrictive fast.
How to Prepare for Kartika Amavasya 2026
A little preparation can help families perform their observances calmly and without last-minute confusion.
1. Decide which ritual you need.Ā Determine whether you wish to perform Tarpan, Shraddh, Pind Daan, Brahmin Bhojan, or a combination of services.
2. Collect family details.Ā Keep the yajman's name, gotra, and available names or relationships of the ancestors ready for the Sankalp.
3. Consult a priest.Ā Confirm the correct procedure, tithi, local muhurta, and any family-specific requirements.
4. Arrange the ritual location.Ā If travelling to Varanasi or another pilgrimage city, confirm the ghat or ceremony location and any local restrictions.
5. Book in advance.Ā Contact your chosen service provider to check availability, prices, and the exact services included.
6. Plan for the morning of 9 November.Ā The Amavasya tithi continues until approximately 12:31 PM IST in Varanasi. The precise ritual time should be confirmed with the priest based on the ceremony and Panchang.
Importance of Amavasya in Hindu Tradition
Amavasya is an important observance in Hindu religious life. Different Puranic traditions, regional customs, and family practices describe the significance of offerings, charity, prayer, and ancestral rites.
For many families, the day is less about elaborate ceremonies and more about remembrance, gratitude, and fulfilling responsibilities towards departed relatives.
Kartika Amavasya also falls in a period associated with lighting lamps, worship, and devotion. The combination of these practices makes the occasion meaningful for devotees who observe both ancestral rites and worship of the deities.
When discussing scriptural teachings, it is best to consult a recognised edition or qualified scholar for the exact wording and context of a verse rather than relying on unsourced quotations.
Why Choose MahaTarpan for Amavasya Puja?
MahaTarpan helps families explore ritual arrangements in important pilgrimage destinations, including Varanasi.
Reasons to enquire about our services include:
Online and on-site options:Ā Explore arrangements according to your travel plans.
Personalised ritual details:Ā Share the yajman's gotra and ancestor information in advance.
Traditional ceremony arrangements:Ā Discuss the appropriate procedure with the priest.
Video and photo updates:Ā Confirm the deliverables included in your selected package.
Booking assistance:Ā Ask about pricing, availability, cancellation terms, and the ceremony location before confirming.
Choose the service that suits your family's requirements and confirm all inclusions with the MahaTarpan team before booking.
Book Your Amavasya Puja for 9 November 2026
Kartika Amavasya is an opportunity to remember departed family members, observe traditional religious practices, and spend time in prayer and charity.
Whether you plan to visit Varanasi in person or need an online arrangement, prepare your family details and enquire about the appropriate ritual well in advance.
MahaTarpan can help you explore options for Tarpan, Shraddh, Pind Daan, and related ancestral services.
Arrange your Amavasya Puja with MahaTarpan.
Visit https://www.mahatarpan.com/Ā to explore our services and enquire about bookings.
FAQs on Amavasya in November 2026
Q1. When is Amavasya in November 2026?
Amavasya is observed on Monday, 9 November 2026, according to the Varanasi Panchang. The tithi begins on 8 November at 11:27 AM and ends on 9 November at 12:31 PM IST.
Q2. What is the name of Amavasya in November 2026?
It is known as Kartika Amavasya. Because the Amavasya tithi is present on Monday, the observance is also associated with Somvati Amavasya.
Q3. What are the Amavasya timings in Varanasi?
According to Drik Panchang, the tithi begins at 11:27 AM on 8 November and ends at 12:31 PM on 9 November 2026. Confirm the applicable ritual muhurta with your priest.
Q4. What is the best time for Amavasya Puja?
For customary morning ancestral rites, Monday morning, 9 November 2026, is an important period because the tithi continues after sunrise. The exact time depends on the ritual and local Panchang guidance.
Q5. Which rituals are performed on Amavasya?
Common observances include Tarpan, Shraddh, Pind Daan, charity, Brahmin Bhojan, prayer, and diya lighting. The choice of ritual depends on family tradition and the purpose of the observance.
Q6. Can I perform Amavasya Puja online?
You can enquire with MahaTarpan about online ritual arrangements, including the available services, the way family details are incorporated, and whether photographs or videos are included in the selected package.
Q7. Where can I perform Amavasya Puja in Varanasi?
Devotees may enquire about suitable ritual arrangements at locations along the Ganga, including Kedar Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat, and Assi Ghat. Confirm suitability and local permissions before booking.
Q8. Is Kartika Amavasya the same as Diwali?
Kartika Amavasya is the lunar observance associated with Diwali. In 2026, Diwali is observed on 8 November, while the Amavasya tithi continues until midday on 9 November. Different rituals may follow different timing rules.
Q9. What details are needed for Pind Daan or Tarpan?
The priest may ask for the yajman's name, gotra, and available names or relationships of the ancestors. Requirements vary according to the ritual and family tradition.
Q10. How can I book Amavasya Puja with MahaTarpan?
Visit MahaTarpan, explore the available ritual services, and contact the team to confirm availability, pricing, the ceremony location, and the booking procedure.
Our Thoughts
Amavasya is a meaningful occasion to pause, remember our ancestors, and reconnect with the traditions passed down through generations.
Kartika Amavasya in November 2026 offers devotees an opportunity to observe ancestral rites, practise charity, and offer prayers according to their family customs. Whether you perform Tarpan at the sacred Ganga in Varanasi or arrange a ritual from home, the occasion can be a time for reflection, gratitude, and devotion.
MahaTarpan is here to help you explore traditional ancestral ritual arrangements with care and attention to your family's details.
Honour your ancestors with devotion. Explore Amavasya Puja services with MahaTarpan.
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