Eclipse Dates 2026: Surya & Chandra Grahan Date, Time,…
Eclipse Dates 2026: Surya & Chandra Grahan Time, Sutak & Visibility
There are 4 Eclipses in 2026: Two Solar Eclipses and Two Lunar Eclipses. The only eclipse visible in India is the Total Lunar Eclipse on March 3, 2026 (visible at moonrise). The spectacular Total Solar Eclipse on August 12 is NOT visible in India.
In Vedic Astrology, an Eclipse (Grahan) is a significant celestial event that influences planetary energies and human life. Whether it is a Surya Grahan (Solar Eclipse) or Chandra Grahan (Lunar Eclipse), observing precautions during the Sutak Kaal is crucial for spiritual well-being.
Here is the complete **2026 Eclipse Calendar** with exact timings (IST), visibility details, and religious guidelines.
🌑 Grahan Dosh Nivaran Puja
Eclipses can trigger Rahu-Ketu Doshas in your horoscope. Protect your family with a वैदिक Shanti Puja.
📅 Eclipse Dates 2026 Calendar at a Glance
| Date | Eclipse Type | Visible in India? | Sutak Kaal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 17, 2026 | Annular Solar Eclipse | ❌ No | Not Applicable |
| Mar 03, 2026 | Total Lunar Eclipse | ✅ Yes (Partial) | Valid |
| Aug 12, 2026 | Total Solar Eclipse | ❌ No | Not Applicable |
| Aug 28, 2026 | Partial Lunar Eclipse | ❌ No | Not Applicable |
1. Annular Solar Eclipse – February 17, 2026
Type: Surya Grahan (Ring of Fire)
Impact on India: Not Visible
Sutak: ❌ Not Observed
This eclipse will be visible primarily in Antarctica and parts of the southern oceans. Since it occurs during the night in India, no religious restrictions apply.
- Start Time (IST): 03:26 PM
- End Time (IST): 07:57 PM
2. Total Lunar Eclipse – March 3, 2026 (Important)
Type: Purna Chandra Grahan (Blood Moon)
Impact on India: ✅ Visible at Moonrise
Sutak: ⚠️ Valid (Starts 9 hours prior)
This is the most important eclipse for Indians in 2026. While the total phase is visible in the Americas and Australia, Indian states (especially in the East) will see the ending partial phases as the moon rises.
- Partial Eclipse Begins: 03:20 PM IST (Not Visible)
- Total Eclipse Ends: 05:32 PM IST (Not Visible)
- Partial Eclipse Ends: 06:47 PM IST (Visible in India)
Note: Since the eclipse is visible during moonrise (approx 6:30 PM), Sutak is applicable from 09:00 AM on March 3.
3. Total Solar Eclipse – August 12, 2026
Type: Total Surya Grahan
Impact on India: Not Visible
Sutak: ❌ Not Observed
A spectacular eclipse visible across Europe (Spain, Iceland, Greenland). It will be night in India during this event, so no rituals are needed.
- Eclipse Timing (IST): 09:00 PM to 01:30 AM (Aug 13)
4. Partial Lunar Eclipse – August 28, 2026
Type: Khandagras Chandra Grahan
Impact on India: Not Visible
Sutak: ❌ Not Observed
Visible in the Americas and Africa. In India, it will be daytime (morning), so the eclipse is not visible.
- Eclipse Timing (IST): 08:03 AM to 11:22 AM
Grahan Dos and Don’ts (Sutak Rules)
- Add Tulsi leaves to food & water.
- Chant Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra.
- Take a bath after the eclipse ends.
- Donate food/clothes to the needy.
- Do not cook or eat during Sutak.
- Pregnant women should not cut/sew.
- Avoid touching idols or visiting temples.
- Do not sleep during the eclipse.
Special Guidelines for Pregnant Women
According to traditional beliefs, eclipses can affect the unborn child. Pregnant women are advised to:
- Stay indoors and avoid eclipse rays.
- Do not use sharp objects like knives, scissors, or needles.
- Chant Santana Gopala Mantra for the baby’s protection.
- Avoid wearing tight clothes or accessories.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, neither the Feb 17 nor the Aug 12 Solar Eclipses of 2026 will be visible in India. Hence, no Sutak Kaal is applicable.
Only the Total Lunar Eclipse on March 3, 2026, will be partially visible in India at moonrise, specifically in Eastern states like Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.
It is strictly advised to avoid eating during Sutak Kaal. However, children, the elderly, and sick individuals are exempted from strict fasting rules.
