Is Makar Sankranti on January 14 or January 15? Check Makar Sankranti 2026 Date, Shubh Muhurat and Punya Kaal

With Makar Sankranti approaching, many devotees are confused about the exact date of Makar Sankranti 2026 whether it falls on January 14 or January 15. According to Drik panchang, Makar Sankranti 2026 will be celebrated on Wednesday, January 14, when the Sun moves into Capricorn or the Makara Rashi. Despite minor regional debates over Sankranti timings, there is no nationwide shift to January 15 this year.

Makar Sankranti 2026 Date and Sankranti Moment

As per Hindu calendar calculations, Makar Sankranti 2026 falls on January 14. The Sankranti moment, when the Sun enters Makara Rashi, occurs during the daytime on January 14 across most regions in India. In cities like Delhi and Ujjain, the Sankranti moment is observed around 02:43 PM to 03:06 PM IST, though some panchangs note slight variations, including early afternoon timings such as 02:49 PM to 03:13 PM.
Since the Sankranti moment occurs during the day, religious observances, bathing rituals, and donations are widely followed on January 14 itself.

Makar Sankranti 2026 Shubh Muhurat: Punya Kaal Timings

The Punya Kaal is considered the most auspicious period for holy bathing (snan), charity (daan), Surya puja, and religious rituals on Makar Sankranti.

Maha Punya Kaal

The Maha Punya Kaal is regarded as the best time for Ganga snan and spiritual activities. As per Drik Panchang this is the most auspicious time on 14th January.

Morning window: 07:15 AM to 09:00 AM

Afternoon window: 02:48 PM to 03:42 PM or 03:13 PM to 05:00 PM (depending on panchang)

For devotees planning a holy bath on Makar Sankranti 2026, the ideal time is 09:03 AM to 10:48 AM

Sunrise is expected between 07:00 AM and 07:15 AM, after which bathing is considered spiritually rewarding.

Makar Sankranti 2026 in Bengaluru and Karnataka

In Karnataka, including Bengaluru, Makar Sankranti 2026 will be celebrated on January 14 and is popularly known as Suggi Habba. Traditions include ellu-bella exchange, kite flying, Surya worship, and charity.

According to Drik Panchang, Punya Kaal for Bengaluru Begins post-Sankranti moment around 03:04 PM on January 14 and extends for nearly 16 hours

Maha Punya Kaal: 03:04 PM to 03:28 PM, This period is ideal for holy baths, donations, and Surya puja. Devotees are advised to follow local temple panchangs for minute-level accuracy.