Quick answer: Sharad Navratri 2026 in Chandigarh starts on Sunday 11 October and Vijayadashami falls on Tuesday 20 October, as calculated for the city. The top places to soak in the festive spirit are Mata Mansa Devi Temple (Panchkula), the Kalibari Temple, Shri Durga Mata Mandir (Mohali) and the Sanatan Dharam Mandir (Sector 23), along with lively Garba and Dandiya nights across the city.
📿 Hindu Calendar & Why It’s Celebrated
Hindu date: Sharad Navratri runs through the first nine days (Pratipada to Navami) of the bright fortnight of Ashwin (in 2026, 11–20 October: the Saptami tithi spans two days, so Durga Ashtami falls on 19 October and Maha Navami on 19 October by the North Indian rule or 20 October by the Bengal rule). Why it’s celebrated: These nine nights are devoted to the nine forms of Goddess Durga (Navadurga), celebrating her victory over the demon Mahishasura. It is a time of fasting, garba and dandiya, and devotion to Shakti — the divine feminine.
✍️ By Rahul Goyal · Chandigarh Life
Every 2026 festival date, with its weekday and whether it is a holiday in Chandigarh, is in our Chandigarh festival calendar.
| At a glance | |
|---|---|
| Navratri 2026 | Sunday 11 October to Tuesday 20 October, calculated for Chandigarh; the Mansa Devi Shrine Board’s own notice covers the same window |
| Ghatasthapana muhurat (Chandigarh) | 6:22 AM to 10:14 AM; Abhijit muhurat 11:46 AM to 12:32 PM |
| Durga Ashtami | Monday 19 October 2026; Sandhi Puja 10:27 AM to 11:15 AM |
| Maha Navami and Vijayadashami | Vijayadashami on Tuesday 20 October 2026; Maha Navami on Monday 19 October by the North Indian rule, Tuesday 20 October by the Bengal rule |
| Mansa Devi Temple hours | 4 AM to 10 PM in summer, 5 AM to 9 PM in winter |
| Kalibari Temple | Near 3BRD Air Force Station, Sector 47 |
Navratri 2026 begins on Sunday 11 October. The Mansa Devi Shrine Board’s own notice for the Ashwin Navratras covers 11 to 20 October. From beautifully decorated temples to vibrant Durga pandals, the atmosphere reflects unity, culture, and spiritual energy.
Navratri, celebrated over nine nights, honors Goddess Durga and her nine forms, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. Chandigarh, Panchkula, and Mohali together host some of the most iconic Navratri events in North India, blending traditional rituals with modern festivities.
In this guide, we bring you the Top 4 Durga pandals and temples to visit this Navratri, along with details on cultural programs, food stalls, and community events.
Why Navratri in Chandigarh is Special
Unity in Diversity: Celebrated by Punjabis, Haryanvis, and Bengalis with equal enthusiasm.
Blend of Rituals & Culture: Traditional pujas, bhajans, and garba nights happen side by side.
Family-Friendly Festivals: From devotional prayers to vibrant fairs, there’s something for everyone.
Accessibility: The Tricity makes it easy for devotees to visit multiple temples and pandals.
Top 4 Places to Visit for Navratri in Chandigarh & Tricity
1. Mata Mansa Devi Temple, Panchkula
Why Visit: Considered the holiest shrine of the region, attracting lakhs of devotees every Navratri.
Highlights:
The Shrine Board lists two aartis a day: 4.30 AM and 7.00 PM in summer, 5.30 AM and 6.00 PM in winter.
Elaborate flower decorations and spiritual processions.
Devotees often walk barefoot to the temple as a mark of devotion.
Tip: Visit early morning or late evening to avoid heavy crowds.
2. Kalibari Temple, Sector 47, Chandigarh
Why Visit: A hub for the Bengali community, this temple offers a glimpse of Kolkata-style Durga Puja.
Highlights:
Authentic Bengali rituals and chanting of mantras.
Traditional bhog prasad including khichuri, labra, and sweets.
Cultural evenings with dance, music, and plays from the Ramayana.
Tip: Don’t miss the Sindoor Khela on Dashami.
3. Shri Durga Mata Mandir, Phase 6 (Sector 56), Mohali
Why Visit: Famous for its elaborate decorations and lively celebrations.
Highlights:
Brightly lit temple with colorful lights and flowers.
Garba and Dandiya nights organized in nearby community halls.
Crowds gather till late night, creating a festive vibe.
Tip: Great place for families with children — safe, festive, and lively.
4. Shri Sanatan Dharam Temple, Sector 23-B, Chandigarh
Why Visit: One of Chandigarh’s oldest temples, a symbol of faith and tradition.
Highlights:
Idols of Durga beautifully adorned in different forms each night.
Regular bhajans and kirtans fill the temple with spiritual energy.
Local vendors selling flowers, diyas, and prasad outside the temple.
Tip: Evening aarti here is a must-experience.
Other Highlights of Navratri in Chandigarh
Ramlila Performances: Committees across the city stage the Ramayana through Navratri and end with Ravan Dahan on Dussehra, Tuesday, 20 October.
Read more: Dussehra in Panchkula 2026 and Ram Leela in Chandigarh.
Garba & Dandiya Nights: Clubs, hotels, and community halls host traditional dance nights. Chandigarh Club in Sector 1 has listed Dandiya nights for 2024 and 2025 on its own What’s New page; Gujarat Bhavan in Sector 24 is the venue Google Maps visitors describe for a community Garba night, but we could not confirm a 2026 programme. See our Dandiya and Garba guide for venue details.
Food Stalls: From fasting-friendly foods (sabudana khichdi, kuttu puri) to festive chaat and sweets, stalls near temples add a foodie charm.
Shopping: Local markets in Sectors 17 and 22 are bustling with festive clothing, jewelry, and accessories.
Tips for Devotees & Visitors
Best Time to Visit: Evenings, especially during aarti hours.
Dress Code: Modest and festive; many devotees wear traditional attire.
Parking: Use designated spots near major temples like Mansa Devi to avoid congestion.
Safety: Follow crowd management instructions, especially at large pandals.
Why Navratri in Chandigarh is a Must-Experience
Experience diverse traditions — Punjabi devotion meets Bengali Durga Puja style.
Witness beautifully decorated pandals and temples.
Enjoy family-friendly celebrations with devotional and cultural activities.
Easy accessibility across Chandigarh, Panchkula, and Mohali.
The Navratri celebration in Chandigarh 2026 is more than just a religious festival. It’s a cultural and spiritual extravaganza that unites communities, preserves traditions, and creates unforgettable memories. Whether you seek devotion, culture, or simply festive joy, the Tricity has something special for everyone this Navratri.
So, this season, step into the temples, join the dances, savor the food, and let the spirit of Navratri in Chandigarh fill your heart with devotion and joy.
1. Which is the most famous Navratri temple near Chandigarh?
Mata Mansa Devi Temple in Panchkula is the most visited during Navratri.
2. Where can I see Bengali-style Durga Puja in Chandigarh?
Kalibari Temple in Chandigarh is the hub of Bengali Navratri celebrations.
3. Are there Garba and Dandiya events in Chandigarh?
Yes. Chandigarh Club listed Dandiya nights on 30 September and 1 October 2025 on its own page, but no 2026 dates are listed there as of 20 September 2026.
4. When does Navratri 2026 start in Chandigarh?
It begins on 11th October 2026 and ends with Vijayadashami on 20th October 2026.
5. Is Navratri in Chandigarh family-friendly?
Absolutely. From temple visits to cultural programs, the celebration welcomes all age groups.
🎥 Watch: On Chandigarh Life
More festival guides
- Dandiya and garba nights: where to play this Navratri.
- Mansa Devi Temple, Panchkula: the Navratri melas.
- Chandi Mata Mandir, Panchkula: the temple behind Chandigarh’s name.
- Kalibari Mandir, Chandigarh: history and Durga Puja.
- Durga Puja in Chandigarh: Ashtami on Monday, 19 October, Navami on the 19th or 20th depending on the calendar.
- Agrasen Jayanti in Chandigarh: Sunday, 11 October.
- Dussehra in Chandigarh: Tuesday, 20 October, with the Ramleela grounds by sector.
- Chandigarh festival calendar 2026: every date, verified.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where to celebrate Navratri in Chandigarh?
The most popular spots are Mata Mansa Devi Temple (Panchkula), the Kalibari Temple, Shri Durga Mata Mandir in Mohali and the Sanatan Dharam Mandir in Sector 23, plus Garba and Dandiya nights at various venues.
What happens during Navratri in Chandigarh?
Devotees visit temples for darshan and aarti, observe fasts, and join colourful Garba and Dandiya dance nights — the whole city comes alive with music, lights and festive food.
Which is the most famous temple for Navratri near Chandigarh?
Mata Mansa Devi Temple in Panchkula is the most famous, drawing huge crowds of devotees during Navratri for its grand celebrations and special aartis.
When is Navratri celebrated?
Navratri is celebrated twice a year — Chaitra Navratri (around March–April) and Sharad Navratri (around September–October), each spanning nine auspicious nights.
Are there Garba and Dandiya events in Chandigarh?
Yes — many clubs, community grounds and societies host lively Garba and Dandiya nights through Navratri, making it a joyful time for families and friends.
When does Navratri 2026 start and end in Chandigarh?
Sharad Navratri 2026 starts with Ghatasthapana on Sunday 11 October and Vijayadashami falls on Tuesday 20 October, as calculated for Chandigarh.
What are the Mansa Devi Temple timings during Navratri?
The Shrine Board lists 4 AM to 10 PM in summer and 5 AM to 9 PM in winter, with no separate Navratri hours on its timing page, so confirm on mansadevi.org.in before you go.
Where is Kalibari in Chandigarh?
Kalibari Temple is near the 3BRD Air Force Station in Sector 47, and its office number is 0172-2641131.
Which day is Durga Ashtami in 2026?
Durga Ashtami is Monday 19 October 2026, with Sandhi Puja calculated for 10:27 AM to 11:15 AM in Chandigarh; Maha Navami is on Monday 19 October by the North Indian rule and Tuesday 20 October by the Bengal rule, and Vijayadashami is on Tuesday 20 October.
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Sources
- Kalibari Chandigarh
- mansadevi.org.in
- Drik Panchang: 2026 Shardiya Navratri calendar for Chandigarh
- Drik Panchang: 2026 Ghatasthapana muhurat for Chandigarh
- Shri Mata Mansa Devi Shrine Board
- chandigarhclubltd.com
- en.wikipedia.org
- google.com
- google.com
- Shrine Board: Ashwin Navratra 2026 tender notice
The facts added to this page on 20 September 2026 were checked against the sources above.
