Pitru Paksha 2026 — Complete Guide: Dates, Tithi Calendar & Rituals

What is Pitru Paksha?

Pitru Paksha (also written as Pitra Paksha or Shradh Paksha) is a sacred 16-day period in the Hindu lunar calendar dedicated to honouring and performing rituals for departed ancestors (Pitrus). It falls in the dark fortnight of the month of Ashwin (Bhadrapada in some regional calendars), typically in September–October.

During this period, performing Shraddha, Pind Daan, and Tarpan is believed to bring peace to the ancestors' souls and remove the effects of Pitru Dosh from the family. The scriptures state that ancestors descend to the mortal plane during Pitru Paksha and directly receive the offerings made to them.

Pitru Paksha 2026 — Full 16-Day Tithi Calendar

“If you know nothing else about Pitru Paksha, know this: Sarvapitri Amavasya honours every ancestor, regardless of when they passed.”

What Rituals to Perform During Pitru Paksha

• Tarpan — Daily water offering with sesame seeds to ancestors, ideally at a river or water body
• Pind Daan — Offering of rice/sesame balls at a Tirth Kshetra (most powerful at Gaya)
• Shraddha — Complete ritual with puja, havan, Brahmin bhojan, and Pinda offering on the ancestor's death tithi
• Brahmin Bhojan — Feeding 5 or more Brahmins as an act of ancestor nourishment
• Cow & Crow Feeding — Feeding crows (considered messengers of Yama) and cows is auspicious

Dos and Don'ts During Pitru Paksha

Where to Perform Pitru Paksha Rituals in 2026

Gaya, Kashi, and Prayagraj are the three most important Tirth Kshetras for Pitru Paksha. During the 16-day period, these cities see lakhs of pilgrims. Book your Tirth Pandit well in advance through Purvaj.com to secure an experienced purohit during the peak period.

Frequently Asked Questions