Rama Ekadashi 2026 will be observed on Thursday, 5 November 2026. This sacred Kartika Krishna Paksha Ekadashi is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. Devotees observe a fast, worship Shri Hari and pray for spiritual clarity, prosperity and freedom from past mistakes.
Rama Ekadashi 2026 date and timings
- Ekadashi date: Thursday, 5 November 2026
- Ekadashi Tithi begins: 11:03 AM on 4 November
- Ekadashi Tithi ends: 10:35 AM on 5 November
- Parana: 6:37 AM to 10:15 AM on 6 November in Delhi
Timings vary by location. Follow your local panchang for the final sankalp and parana time.
What is Rama Ekadashi?
Rama Ekadashi falls during the Krishna Paksha of Kartika month. The name “Rama” here is associated with Goddess Lakshmi, the divine consort of Lord Vishnu. The vrat is traditionally observed through prayer, self-discipline, charity and remembrance of Shri Hari.
Rama Ekadashi vrat vidhi
- On Dashami, eat a simple sattvic meal and avoid onion, garlic, grains and intoxicants.
- On Ekadashi morning, bathe, clean the puja space and take a clear vrat sankalp.
- Offer water, tulsi leaves, yellow flowers, incense and a ghee diya to Lord Vishnu.
- Chant Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya or recite Vishnu Sahasranama.
- Observe nirjala, phalahar or a simple vrat according to health and family tradition.
- Keep vigil where possible, read the vrat katha and offer food or charity.
- Break the fast during the Dwadashi parana window after worship.
Rama Ekadashi vrat katha
According to the traditional account, King Muchukunda’s daughter Chandrabhaga was a devoted observer of Ekadashi. She married Prince Shobhana, whose health was weak. During Rama Ekadashi, Shobhana attempted the fast but could not survive its austerity. By the spiritual merit of the vrat he received a magnificent but unstable celestial kingdom. Chandrabhaga’s accumulated devotion later made that kingdom permanent, illustrating the power of sincere faith, discipline and shared merit.
What can be eaten during the fast?
Common vrat foods include fruits, milk, curd, nuts, makhana, potatoes, sweet potatoes, sabudana and preparations made with singhara or kuttu flour. Use sendha namak where permitted. Avoid rice, wheat, lentils, beans and regular salt. Those who are pregnant, elderly, unwell or taking medication should choose a safe form of fasting.
Rama Ekadashi mantra
Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya
Chant the mantra 108 times with a calm mind. Tulsi leaves are especially dear to Lord Vishnu, but avoid plucking them on Ekadashi; collect them respectfully the previous day.
Plan every Ekadashi with one guide
Our Sampurna Ekadashi Guide eBook brings together all 26 Ekadashi vrat kathas, the 2026 calendar, puja vidhi and udyapan guidance. You can also browse the complete Hindu vrat list and the 2026 Hindu festival calendar.
Frequently asked questions
When is Rama Ekadashi in 2026?
Rama Ekadashi is on Thursday, 5 November 2026.
When should Rama Ekadashi fast be broken?
For Delhi, parana is from 6:37 AM to 10:15 AM on 6 November 2026. Check local timings for your city.
Can I observe Rama Ekadashi with fruits?
Yes. A phalahar fast with fruits, milk, nuts and permitted vrat foods is commonly observed.
Which deity is worshipped on Rama Ekadashi?
Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi are worshipped. Devotees also offer tulsi and chant Vishnu mantras.
Is Rama Ekadashi the same as Dev Uthani Ekadashi?
No. Rama Ekadashi occurs in Krishna Paksha, while Dev Uthani Ekadashi follows later in Kartika Shukla Paksha.
