Dhanteras 2026 date November 6 or 7? When is Dhantrayodashi? Check confirmed date, shopping timings and shubh muhurat

Dhanteras, one of the most auspicious days of the Hindu festive calendar, is approaching, and shoppers preparing to buy gold, silver, jewellery and household items may be wondering whether the festival falls on November 6 or 7 this year. Dhanteras will be celebrated on Friday, November 6, 2026. The confusion arises because the Trayodashi tithi, which determines the festival, continues into the morning of November 7. According to Panchang, the tithi begins at 10:30 am on November 6 and ends at 10:47 am on November 7. Dhanteras is observed on November 6 because the relevant tithi prevails on that day's midday period.

The festival, also known as Dhantrayodashi, marks the beginning of the five-day Diwali celebrations. Many families consider it an auspicious occasion to purchase precious metals, utensils and other valuables, while worshipping Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Kuber and Lord Dhanvantari.

Dhanteras 2026 date and time

Here are the important dates and timings to keep in mind for Dhanteras this year.

Event	Date and time
Dhanteras 2026	Friday, November 6
Trayodashi tithi begins	November 6, 10:30 am
Trayodashi tithi ends	November 7, 10:47 am
Dhanteras puja muhurat in New Delhi	6:02 pm to 7:57 pm
Pradosh Kaal in New Delhi	5:32 pm to 8:09 pm

Dhanteras 2026: Shubh muhurat to buy gold and silver

Buying gold and silver is among the most popular traditions associated with Dhanteras. Jewellery, coins, utensils and other metal items are commonly purchased as symbols of prosperity and good fortune. According to Drik Panchang, the auspicious periods for shopping on November 6 include the following:

• Morning: 10:30 am to 10:40 am
• Afternoon: 12:02 pm to 1:24 pm
• Afternoon: 4:07 pm to 5:29 pm
• Night: 8:46 pm to 10:24 pm

An additional auspicious period is listed from 12:02 am to 4:57 am on November 7. These timings are based on the Panchang's calculations for the relevant location and should not be treated as universal timings for every city.

People who are planning a jewellery purchase can check the opening hours of their preferred shop and choose a suitable period. Those buying online should also check delivery schedules, payment terms and the seller's return policy.

Dhanteras 2026 puja muhurat

The main Dhanteras puja is traditionally performed during the evening Pradosh period. In New Delhi, the puja muhurat on November 6 is from 6:02 pm to 7:57 pm, according to Drik Panchang.

During the puja, devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi, associated with wealth and prosperity, and Lord Kuber, regarded as the guardian of wealth. Lord Dhanvantari, associated with Ayurveda and health, is also worshipped on this occasion.

Families typically clean and decorate their homes, light diyas and prepare offerings for the deities. Some households also light a diya in the evening as part of the tradition associated with Yama Deepam.

Why is Dhanteras celebrated?

Dhanteras falls on the Trayodashi tithi of Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of Kartik. The name combines the ideas of dhan, meaning wealth, and teras, referring to the thirteenth lunar day.

The festival is associated with Lord Dhanvantari, who is believed in Hindu tradition to have emerged from the ocean during the Samudra Manthan carrying a pot of amrit, the nectar of immortality. His worship is linked to health and well-being.

Over time, the occasion has also become associated with prosperity and new purchases. Gold and silver are popular choices, but many families buy kitchen utensils, household goods and other useful items according to their budgets and customs.

The day also marks the start of the Diwali festivities, which continue with Naraka Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali, Diwali, Govardhan Puja and Bhai Dooj.

What should you buy on Dhanteras?

There is no single item that every household must purchase on Dhanteras. The choice often depends on family traditions, personal preferences and budget.

Common purchases include:

• Gold and silver: Jewellery, coins and small precious-metal items.
• Utensils: Steel, brass, copper and other metal kitchenware.
• Household essentials: Items that families plan to use in their homes.
• Business and work essentials: Some people choose the occasion to buy tools, equipment or items connected with their work.

The tradition is centred on welcoming prosperity and marking an auspicious beginning. Spending beyond one's means is not necessary to observe the festival.