Pitru Paksha is one of the most important periods in the Hindu religious calendar for remembering and performing traditional Shraddha and ancestral rituals for departed family members.
If you are planning Pind Daan in Varanasi during Pitru Paksha 2026, knowing the correct dates and understanding which Shraddha Tithi applies to your family member can make your pilgrimage easier to plan.
In Varanasi, the 2026 Pitru Paksha period begins with Purnima Shraddha on September 26, 2026, while Sarva Pitru Amavasya falls on October 10, 2026. The dates below follow the Varanasi-specific Shraddha calendar.
Important: Shraddha dates and ritual timings can depend on the local Panchang, location and the specific Tithi. Families should confirm the final ritual timing with their priest before performing the ceremony.
Pitru Paksha 2026 Dates in Varanasi at a Glance
Pitru Paksha 2026 in Varanasi: September 26 to October 10, 2026
Sarva Pitru Amavasya 2026: October 10, 2026
The Varanasi calendar lists Purnima Shraddha on September 26 and the subsequent Pitru Paksha Shraddha dates through Sarva Pitru Amavasya on October 10.
Pitru Paksha 2026 Full Calendar
| Shraddha Tithi | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| Purnima Shraddha | September 26, 2026 | Saturday |
| Pratipada Shraddha | September 27, 2026 | Sunday |
| Dwitiya Shraddha | September 28, 2026 | Monday |
| Tritiya Shraddha | September 29, 2026 | Tuesday |
| Chaturthi Shraddha | September 30, 2026 | Wednesday |
| Panchami Shraddha | September 30, 2026 | Wednesday |
| Shashthi Shraddha | October 1, 2026 | Thursday |
| Saptami Shraddha | October 2, 2026 | Friday |
| Ashtami Shraddha | October 3, 2026 | Saturday |
| Navami Shraddha | October 4, 2026 | Sunday |
| Dashami Shraddha | October 5, 2026 | Monday |
| Ekadashi Shraddha | October 6, 2026 | Tuesday |
| Dwadashi Shraddha | October 7, 2026 | Wednesday |
| Trayodashi Shraddha | October 8, 2026 | Thursday |
| Chaturdashi Shraddha | October 9, 2026 | Friday |
| Sarva Pitru Amavasya | October 10, 2026 | Saturday |
The Varanasi-specific calendar shows both Chaturthi and Panchami Shraddha on September 30, followed by Shashthi on October 1 and Sarva Pitru Amavasya on October 10.
What Is Pitru Paksha?
Pitru Paksha is a period traditionally dedicated to remembering ancestors and performing Shraddha-related rituals.
During this period, families may perform rituals and offerings according to the Tithi associated with the deceased family member.
The central purpose is traditionally understood as expressing respect and fulfilling ancestral religious obligations.
Different regions and traditions can use different names for the lunar months, but the corresponding Shraddha period is observed during the same general lunar cycle.
Why Is Pitru Paksha Important for Pind Daan?
Pind Daan is a traditional Hindu ancestral ritual involving offerings made for departed family members.
For families who follow these traditions, Pitru Paksha is considered an important period for performing Shraddha and related ancestral rites.
Varanasi is one of the major pilgrimage destinations where families come to perform religious ceremonies for their ancestors.
If you are specifically planning a ceremony in the city, read our complete guide to Pind Daan in Varanasi.
Which Day Should You Perform Shraddha During Pitru Paksha?
The appropriate Shraddha day is traditionally connected with the Tithi on which the person passed away, rather than simply choosing a convenient calendar date.
For example, if the death anniversary falls on a particular lunar Tithi, the corresponding Shraddha is traditionally performed on that Tithi during Pitru Paksha.
This is why families should identify the deceased person’s Tithi before booking their ritual.
If the death Tithi is unknown or there are special circumstances, a priest can explain the traditionally followed option for the family.
What Is Sarva Pitru Amavasya 2026?
Sarva Pitru Amavasya is the final day of Pitru Paksha and is also known as Mahalaya Amavasya or Amavasya Shraddha.
In Varanasi, Sarva Pitru Amavasya falls on October 10, 2026.
This day has particular importance for families who may not have been able to perform Shraddha on the specific Tithi or who follow the traditional practice associated with Amavasya.
Because of its significance, demand for priests, accommodation and local transportation can increase around the final days of Pitru Paksha.
Why Perform Pind Daan in Varanasi During Pitru Paksha?
Varanasi has a long-standing place in Hindu pilgrimage traditions and is closely associated with rituals concerning death, ancestors and spiritual liberation.
Families visiting Varanasi during Pitru Paksha may combine their ancestral rituals with visits to important religious locations across the city.
Depending on the family’s ritual requirements, a priest may recommend a particular location and ceremony.
This is why it is better to plan the ritual based on the deceased person’s circumstances and family tradition rather than selecting a location solely because it is popular.
Important Places for Ancestral Rituals in Varanasi
Varanasi has several locations associated with different religious traditions.
Pishach Mochan Kund
Pishach Mochan Kund is traditionally associated with rituals concerning certain forms of untimely death and beliefs surrounding unsettled souls.
Families dealing with circumstances associated with Akal Mrityu may specifically ask a priest about the traditional rituals associated with this location.
For more information, read our detailed guide on Pishach Mochan Kund Varanasi and Akal Mrityu rituals.
Manikarnika Ghat
Manikarnika Ghat is one of Varanasi’s most significant cremation ghats and has an important place in Hindu death and liberation traditions.
It should not, however, be assumed that every Pind Daan ceremony needs to take place at Manikarnika Ghat.
The appropriate ritual location can depend on the purpose of the ceremony and priestly guidance.
Other Ritual Locations
Depending on the family tradition and the specific ceremony, other sacred locations in Varanasi may also be relevant.
A knowledgeable local priest can explain which location and ritual are appropriate for your circumstances.
Pitru Paksha 2026: How to Plan Pind Daan in Varanasi
If you are travelling to Varanasi for Pitru Paksha 2026, planning early can make the pilgrimage considerably easier.
1. Identify the Correct Tithi
Before travelling, find out the lunar Tithi associated with the deceased family member.
This is one of the most important details for planning the Shraddha ceremony.
2. Confirm the Ritual With a Priest
Different family circumstances may require different traditional rituals.
Speak with a knowledgeable priest before finalising your ceremony.
3. Book Accommodation Early
Varanasi can become particularly busy around important religious periods.
Booking your hotel in advance can help avoid last-minute availability and pricing issues.
4. Arrange Local Transportation
Families travelling with elderly parents or several relatives should arrange reliable local transportation in advance.
This is especially useful when the itinerary includes multiple temples, ghats or ritual locations.
5. Keep Your Schedule Flexible
Do not schedule your return journey immediately after the ceremony.
Allow additional time for traffic, waiting periods and completion of religious rituals.
What Should You Bring for Pind Daan During Pitru Paksha?
The required items depend on the specific ritual and the priest conducting it.
Traditional ceremonies may require items such as:
- Kusha or darbha grass
- Til or sesame seeds
- Rice
- Flowers
- Fruits
- Water
- Pind-related ingredients
- Other puja materials
However, the exact Pind Daan Samagri can vary.
Rather than purchasing everything yourself, ask the priest or tour organiser for a complete list before travelling.
How Much Does Pind Daan in Varanasi Cost During Pitru Paksha?
The cost can vary considerably depending on the type of ritual, number of family members, priestly services, transportation, accommodation and other arrangements.
A basic ritual and a complete pilgrimage package are not directly comparable.
If you are planning your trip, check the complete details of Pind Daan in Varanasi before deciding on a package.
For families travelling to multiple pilgrimage destinations, a combined Gaya–Varanasi–Prayagraj Pind Daan Tour may be more convenient than arranging each destination separately.
Varanasi, Gaya or Prayagraj: Where Should You Perform Pind Daan?
Families often wonder whether Varanasi, Gaya or Prayagraj is the best destination for Pind Daan.
There is no single answer for every family.
Each destination has its own religious traditions, important locations and ritual practices.
Families who want to visit more than one destination can also consider a combined pilgrimage covering Gaya, Varanasi and Prayagraj.
Can Pind Daan Be Performed Outside Pitru Paksha?
Yes, families may perform different forms of ancestral rituals at other times of the year according to their religious tradition.
Pitru Paksha is an especially significant period for Shraddha, but it does not necessarily mean that ancestral rituals can only be performed during these dates.
The appropriate timing depends on the purpose of the ritual, family tradition and priestly guidance.
Therefore, if you cannot travel during Pitru Paksha, speak with a priest about alternative dates.
Pind Daan During Pitru Paksha for Families Travelling From Outside Varanasi
Many families travel from other cities specifically for ancestral rituals.
If you are travelling to Varanasi during Pitru Paksha, a practical itinerary should consider:
Arrival → Hotel Check-in → Priest Coordination → Pind Daan/Shraddha → Temple & Ghat Visits → Departure
For elderly family members, private transportation can be particularly useful because it reduces unnecessary walking and makes it easier to move between different locations.
Can NRIs Perform Pind Daan in Varanasi?
Families living outside India can also travel to Varanasi for ancestral rituals.
For NRI families, advance planning is particularly useful because the trip may need to coordinate international flights, domestic transportation, accommodation, priest availability and local transfers.
A local tour operator can help coordinate these practical elements while the family focuses on the religious ceremony.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pitru Paksha 2026
When is Pitru Paksha in 2026?
In the Varanasi Shraddha calendar, the 2026 period begins with Purnima Shraddha on September 26, 2026, and concludes with Sarva Pitru Amavasya on October 10, 2026.
What are the Pitru Paksha 2026 dates?
The main Shraddha dates in Varanasi run from September 26 through October 10, 2026, with the individual Shraddha days corresponding to their respective lunar Tithis.
When is Sarva Pitru Amavasya in 2026?
Sarva Pitru Amavasya falls on October 10, 2026.
When should I perform Pind Daan during Pitru Paksha?
Traditionally, the Shraddha is performed according to the Tithi associated with the deceased person’s death. If the Tithi is unknown or the family has a special circumstance, consult a priest.
Is Varanasi a good place for Pind Daan during Pitru Paksha?
Varanasi is an important Hindu pilgrimage destination associated with ancestral and death-related religious traditions. Families can perform traditional ancestral rituals here with guidance from local priests.
Can I perform Pind Daan in Varanasi without visiting during Pitru Paksha?
Depending on the ritual and family tradition, ancestral rituals can be performed at other times as well. A priest can recommend an appropriate date.
Should I book Pind Daan arrangements in advance for Pitru Paksha 2026?
Yes. If you plan to travel to Varanasi during Pitru Paksha, arranging the priest, accommodation and transportation in advance can make the trip easier, especially around the final days of the period.
Plan Your Pitru Paksha 2026 Pind Daan in Varanasi
If you are planning Pind Daan in Varanasi during Pitru Paksha 2026, start by identifying the correct Tithi, understanding the ritual required by your family tradition and arranging the practical parts of your journey.
For a complete overview, explore our Pind Daan in Varanasi guide.
If your family is planning a larger ancestral pilgrimage, you can also explore our Gaya–Varanasi–Prayagraj Pind Daan Tour Package.
2026 Pitru Paksha Quick Reference
Start: September 26, 2026
Pratipada: September 27, 2026
Ashtami: October 3, 2026
Navami: October 4, 2026
Chaturdashi: October 9, 2026
Sarva Pitru Amavasya: October 10, 2026
Because lunar dates and ritual timings can depend on location, always verify the final Tithi and ceremony timing with a local priest or a reliable Panchang before performing the ritual.