Ekadashi Calendar
Ekadashi in October 2026
Complete Guide to Sacred Fasting Days
Discover the exact dates, timings, spiritual significance, and observance methods for all Ekadashi vrats occurring in October 2026.
2
Ekadashis in October
1
Shukla Paksha
1
Krishna Paksha
Indira Ekadashi
Indira Ekadashi in the Ashwin month (Krishna Paksha). Dedicated to Vishnu. Tradition: Smarta. Calculation version: ekadashi-v2.
Tradition
Smarta vs Vaishnava Dates
| Tradition | Fasting date | Parana date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| General / Smarta | Tue, Oct 6, 2026 | Wed, Oct 7, 202612:47 AM - 4:41 AM | General observance follows the Ekadashi tithi at local sunrise. Break after local sunrise and after Hari Vasara ends. |
| Vaishnava / ISKCON-style | Tue, Oct 6, 2026 | Wed, Oct 7, 202612:47 AM - 4:41 AM | Vaishnava observance matches the General date because Ekadashi is clear before Arunodaya. Break after local sunrise and after Hari Vasara ends. |
Why dates can differ
Ekadashi fasting is decided from local sunrise, not only from when the tithi begins. Vaishnava calendars also check Arunodaya, the period before sunrise, so Dashami overlap or an Ekadashi spanning two sunrises can move the observance to the next day.
Papankusha Ekadashi
Papankusha Ekadashi in the Ashwin month (Shukla Paksha). Dedicated to Vishnu. Tradition: Smarta. Calculation version: ekadashi-v2.
Tradition
Smarta vs Vaishnava Dates
| Tradition | Fasting date | Parana date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| General / Smarta | Thu, Oct 22, 2026 | Fri, Oct 23, 202612:56 AM - 4:42 AM | General observance follows the Ekadashi tithi at local sunrise. Break after local sunrise and after Hari Vasara ends. |
| Vaishnava / ISKCON-style | Thu, Oct 22, 2026 | Fri, Oct 23, 202612:56 AM - 4:42 AM | Vaishnava observance matches the General date because Ekadashi is clear before Arunodaya. Break after local sunrise and after Hari Vasara ends. |
Why dates can differ
Ekadashi fasting is decided from local sunrise, not only from when the tithi begins. Vaishnava calendars also check Arunodaya, the period before sunrise, so Dashami overlap or an Ekadashi spanning two sunrises can move the observance to the next day.
Dates are calculated for New Delhi, India unless you change location. Ekadashi observance depends on local sunrise, tithi timing, and tradition. Smarta and Vaishnava dates may differ. Always follow your family sampradaya or local temple where applicable.
General Ekadashi Guidelines
Fasting Rules
- ×All grains (rice, wheat, barley, etc.)
- ×All legumes and pulses
- ×Onions, garlic, mushrooms
- ✓Fruits, nuts, milk products
- ✓Permitted vegetables and spices
Spiritual Practices
- •Early morning bath and prayers
- •Worship of Lord Vishnu
- •Chanting mantras and hymns
- •Reading sacred scriptures
- •Charity and helping others
Frequently Asked Questions
What time should I start the Ekadashi fast?
The Ekadashi fast traditionally begins at sunrise on the Ekadashi day and ends at sunrise the following day on Dwadashi. Preparation often begins the previous day with a simple sattvic meal.
Can I drink water during Ekadashi fast?
Yes, in most forms of Ekadashi fasting water is permitted and encouraged. Only the most stringent Nirjala Ekadashi avoids water, so choose the level that suits your health and spiritual capacity.
What if I am new to Ekadashi fasting?
Beginners can start with Phalahari or Anukalpa fasting and gradually move toward stricter observances as their body, mind, and family tradition allow.
Why can Smarta and Vaishnava dates differ?
Smarta and Vaishnava calendars can differ because Ekadashi is judged by local sunrise and Vaishnava observance also checks Arunodaya before sunrise.
Sources and tradition
How to read this Ekadashi guide
Traditional Ekadashi observances are described in Vaishnava texts and regional vrat traditions. Practices vary across sampradaya, family lineage, and local temple guidance. This article presents a general Hindu household observance, with Vaishnava notes where applicable.
Padma Purana, Uttara-khanda Ekadashi Mahatmya
Ekadashi Mahatmya chapters used in type-specific citation notes
Used for named Ekadashi kathas, devotional benefits, and observance context where a type page supplies chapter or verse detail.
Vaishnava and regional vrat traditions
Household, temple, and sampradaya practice
Used for practice framing such as family sampradaya, local temple guidance, and Smarta/Vaishnava distinctions.
HinduLab calculation methodology
Location-aware panchang, tithi, sunrise, and vrat timing rules
Explains how HinduLab combines astronomical calculations, Hindu calendar rules, city, timezone, sunrise, and sunset data.
HinduLab Hindu calendar and vrats source library
Editorial review, regional variation, and health disclaimer policies
Documents the trust policy used for panchang tools, vrat guides, Ekadashi rules, and health cautions.
Plan Your October Ekadashi Observance
Prepare for your sacred fast with our comprehensive guides on fasting rules and food guidelines.