Vaikunta Ekadasi, a significant event in Tirumala, is a focal point of devotion for many pilgrims. In December 2026, this auspicious occasion will commence on December 23rd and continue for ten days until January 1st, 2026.
Tirumala Vaikunta Ekadasi 2026 Dates Opening Closing Timings
Significance
Vaikunta Ekadasi is a day dedicated to Lord Vishnu and holds great importance in the Hindu calendar. It’s believed that observing a fast and performing rituals on this day can lead to moksha, liberation from the cycle of birth and death. This special day falls on the 11th day of Shukla Paksha in the Margazhi month of the Tamil Calendar, which is on December 23rd, 2026.
Opening Date and Closing Date
The Vaikunta Dwaram, also known as the door to heaven, will open early on December 23rd, 2026. This door stays open for ten days, allowing devotees to feel the divine presence. The closing of the Vaikunta Dwaram signifies the end of the festival, which will be on January 1st, 2026.
Dwaram Timings
The timings for Darshan through the Vaikunta Dwaram are from 3:00 am to 11:59 pm. Devotees can visit during these hours to seek blessings from the deity.
Darshan Procedure
The darshan procedure begins with the issuance of Sarva Darshanam tokens at various locations in Tirupathi and Tirumala. The Tirumala trust plans to issue 7 lakh darshan tickets during the Vaikunta Ekadasi festival. The darshan usually commences at 5 am, and the waiting time might range between 24 and 36 hours.
Click Here to Book for the Tirumala Vaikunta Ekadasi Tickets Online
Things to Know
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) will release Vaikunta Ekadasi tickets online on November 10, 2026. Room bookings in Tirumala will open online from November 13, 2026. Devotees should familiarize themselves with these details to plan their visit effectively.
FAQ
Q: When is Vaikunta Ekadasi in December 2026? A: Vaikunta Ekadasi will be observed on Saturday, December 23, 2026.
Q: What are the timings for Vaikunta Dwaram Darshan? A: The Darshan through Vaikunta Dwaram is from 3:00 am to 11:59 pm.
Q: How long is the waiting duration for Darshan? A: The waiting duration for Darshan might range between 24 and 36 hours.
Q: Where can I get the Sarva Darshanam tokens? A: The Sarva Darshanam tokens would be issued at different locations at Tirupathi and Tirumala.
Q: What is the significance of Vaikunta Ekadasi? A: Vaikunta Ekadasi is believed to grant moksha, liberation from the cycle of birth and death, when observed with devotion.
Important Tips for Visitors
- Carry sufficient cash — ATMs near temple towns may run out during peak festival periods.
- Book accommodation well in advance — rooms fill up quickly during festival season.
- Check the exact festival dates on the official temple website as lunar calendar dates may shift.
- Be prepared for long queues and allocate extra time for darshan during festivals.
Official Resources
V S Anantha Sharma is a Senior Content Researcher at Go Kshetra with over 20 years of experience in Indian archaeology, temple architecture, and Hindu pilgrimage traditions. A lifelong devotee and...
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