The Diwali 2026 date is Sunday, 8 November, and both festival calendars we checked agree on it. However, they disagree on the exact Lakshmi Puja timing, even for Delhi. So the safest plan is to fix the day now and confirm the time closer to the festival.
Quick answer
- Diwali (Lakshmi Puja): Sunday, 8 November 2026.
- Amavasya tithi in New Delhi: from 12:08 am to 9:47 pm on 8 November, per SmartPuja.
- Dhanteras: Friday, 6 November, according to HinduTone.
- Puja time depends on sunset in your city, so it varies across India.
What the calendars agree on
Both HinduTone and SmartPuja place Diwali on 8 November. SmartPuja lists the amavasya tithi in New Delhi as starting at 12:08 am and ending at 9:47 pm that day. HinduTone adds that Dhanteras falls on Friday, 6 November, and that Narak Chaturdashi shares the day with Lakshmi Puja.
Why Lakshmi Puja times differ
The puja is performed in Pradosh Kaal, which begins at local sunset. Because sunset differs by city, the time moves with it. For example, the same festival day gives a different window in Mumbai than in Kolkata.
The two sources also differ for the same city. HinduTone gives a Delhi window starting at 5:54 pm, while SmartPuja starts at 5:32 pm. Methods and rounding can explain a gap like this. Still, a 22 minute difference matters if you plan a precise start.
How to plan the Diwali week
First, treat 8 November as the main date and ask your family priest or local temple for the exact local time. Then work backwards. Buy puja items and gifts in the days before Dhanteras, because markets are busiest then.
Travel needs earlier planning. Trains and flights around festivals fill up early, so book tickets as soon as your leave is approved. If you are buying silver or gold for Dhanteras, read our guide to the silver hallmark check first.
Gifts for friends who travel are another easy win. Our list of Diwali gifts for travellers keeps to things people actually use.
If you are ordering online
Gifts and sweets ordered for Diwali week often need a few extra days. So place orders early and choose a delivery date before 6 November. Also keep a backup option for anything that must arrive by puja day.
FAQ
What is the Diwali 2026 date in India?
Diwali is on Sunday, 8 November 2026. Lakshmi Puja is performed that evening in Pradosh Kaal.
When is Dhanteras in 2026?
HinduTone lists Dhanteras on Friday, 6 November 2026. Check a local panchang if your family follows a regional tradition.
Why does the Lakshmi Puja time change by city?
The muhurat starts at sunset, and sunset time differs between cities. Confirm the window for your own city before the puja.