Kartik Maas 2026: Rules, Deepdan, Tulsi Puja and What to Do

Kartik Maas is counted among the holiest months of the Hindu year. In the purnimanta panchang it begins after Sharad Purnima and ends on Kartik Purnima. In 2026 Kartik Purnima is on 24 November, so the month runs from the end of October to 24 November.

**Key Takeaways** - The month carries the traditions of deepdan, Tulsi puja, river bathing and charity - Worship of Lord Vishnu (in the Damodar form) is considered especially meaningful this month - Diwali, Chhath, Dev Uthani Ekadashi and Dev Diwali all fall in this month - These are all traditions; adopt them according to your means and health

What Is Traditionally Done in Kartik Maas?

### Deepdan Through the month it is traditional to light a lamp in the evening near Tulsi, at a temple or by a river. This is called deepdan. To understand the lamp and how to light it properly, read the importance of lighting a diya.

### Tulsi Puja Offering water to Tulsi each morning and lighting a ghee lamp beside her in the evening is considered especially meaningful this month. Tulsi is traditionally not watered on Sundays and Ekadashi. Read more in Tulsi in worship and at home. The month's rituals culminate with Tulsi Vivah on Dev Uthani Ekadashi.

### River Bathing and Charity Bathing early in the morning in the Ganga or another sacred river is described as especially meaningful. If you can't reach a river, a little Gangajal can be added to bathing water at home. Donating grain, clothing and lamps is also considered auspicious this month.

### Sattvic Food Many people eat sattvic food through the whole month and avoid garlic, onion and non-vegetarian food. Some also keep to one meal a day. This is a personal choice and should suit your health.

### Vishnu Worship In Kartik you can chant Om Namo Narayanaya and recite the Vishnu aarti. Read the Ekadashi rules here.

Main Festivals of Kartik Maas 2026

Some of these may be printed a day earlier or later in different panchangs. To read in detail: Karva Chauth, Diwali, Chhath Puja and Dev Diwali.

Frequently Asked Questions

Until when is Kartik Maas in 2026?

In the purnimanta panchang Kartik begins after Sharad Purnima at the end of October and runs to Kartik Purnima, 24 November 2026.

What should be done in Kartik Maas?

By tradition: deepdan, Tulsi puja, early-morning river bathing, charity, sattvic food and worship of Lord Vishnu.

What is deepdan?

The tradition of lighting a lamp in the evening near Tulsi, at a temple or by a river during Kartik Maas.

Which festivals fall in Kartik Maas?

Karva Chauth, Dhanteras, Diwali, Bhai Dooj, Chhath Puja, Dev Uthani Ekadashi and Dev Diwali (Kartik Purnima) all fall in this month.