When is Mahashivratri 2026, February 15 or February 16? Guide on date, timings, famous venues & rituals

Mahashivratri, one of the most spiritually charged nights in Hinduism, marks the great night of Shiva.

The festival commemorates the divine marriage of Shiva and Parvati or it is also believed to be the night Shiva consumed Halahala poison to save the world.

As people are awaiting to participate in the spiritual night, Panchang has released the exact date and timings of Mahashivratri.

Mahashivratri 2026: Date, Timing

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According to the Panchang, the Chaturdashi tithi starts on February 15 at 5:04 PM and ends on February 16 at 5:34 PM. The festival falls on Krishna Paksha Chaturdashi in the month of Phalguna. Meanwhile, the South Indian calendar mentions the Chaturdashi Tithi in the month of Magha, according to Amanta (or Amavasyant) lunar calendar.

Mahashivratri 2026 Timings: Ratri Prahar and Nishita Kaal

Devotees perform Puja to lord Shiva stone statue, near the temple, in Mahasihvaratri fesival.

The night of Mahashivratri is divided into four Prahars (segments) for worship, along with the Nishita Kaal Puja.

• First Prahar Puja: February 15, 6:11 PM – 9:23 PM

• Second Prahar Puja: February 15-16, 9:23 PM – 12:35 AM

• Third Prahar Puja: February 16, 12:35 AM –3:47 AM

• Fourth Prahar Puja: February 16, 3:47 AM – 6:59 AM

• Nishita Kaal Puja: February 16 , 12:09 AM – 1:01 AM

• Shivaratri Parana (breaking fast): February 16, 6:59 AM – 03:24 PM

4 famous Mahashivratri venues

Mahashivaratri celebration at Mahakaleshwar Temple in Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain.

Most famous and spiritually significant venues to celebrate Mahashivaratri in India, known for grand festivities and massive crowds, are the Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain, Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi, Somnath Temple in Gujarat, and the Isha Yoga Centre in Coimbatore.

Significance of Mahashivratri

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The devotees believe that observing this festival brings benefits like removal of sins, spiritual growth and moksha.

Special rituals during Shivaratri

Group of people gather together during mahashivratri festival celebration event at night in front of Aadiyogi Lord Shiva 112 feet tall statue.

The night will be followed by a series of rituals including the four Prahars of worships, singing bhajans, reading scriptures, fasting and visiting temples to offer prayers throughout the night.