Chandra Grahan 2026 August 28: When will lunar eclipse begin? Check India timings, visibility and Do’s & Don’ts

One of the major astronomical events of August 28, 2026, will be a deep partial lunar eclipse, or Chandra Grahan. During the eclipse, a large portion of the Moon will pass through the Earth's dark central shadow. The complete eclipse, including the penumbral phases, will continue for around 5 hours and 38 minutes, while the more noticeable partial lunar eclipse will last approximately 3 hours and 18 minutes.

Chandra Grahan 2026 Start and End Time in India

The lunar eclipse will take place during the daytime in India, meaning it will not be visible from most parts of the country. However, its astronomical timings in Indian Standard Time (IST) are as follows:

Penumbral eclipse begins: 6:53 AM


Partial lunar eclipse begins: 8:03 AM

Maximum eclipse: 9:42 AM

Partial eclipse ends: 11:21 AM

Penumbral eclipse ends: 12:31 PM

How Long Will Chandra Grahan 2026 Last?

The eclipse begins when the Moon enters the Earth's outer, or penumbral, shadow and concludes once it completely moves out of it. The entire process will take approximately 5 hours and 38 minutes. The partial phase, which is more visually noticeable, will continue for about 3 hours and 18 minutes.

Where Will Chandra Grahan 2026 Be Visible?

The eclipse will have its best visibility across North America and South America, along with some parts of Europe and Africa. Certain western regions of Asia may also witness portions of the event.

Visibility will depend on the Moon's position above the horizon at different stages of the eclipse. The event will be particularly well positioned for observers in several parts of the Americas.

Chandra Grahan 2026: Do’s and Dont’s

According to traditional beliefs associated with lunar eclipses, certain activities are considered inauspicious during the eclipse period. These include:

Avoid eating: Some traditions advise people not to consume food during the lunar eclipse.

Avoid sleeping: Sleeping during the eclipse is traditionally considered inauspicious.

Do not start important work: Starting a new business, job or other significant activity during the eclipse is considered inauspicious according to some beliefs.

Avoid sharp objects: Traditional practices recommend avoiding the use of sharp objects such as knives, scissors and needles during the eclipse.

Avoid touching idols: Some traditions advise devotees not to touch idols or religious images during the eclipse period.

Chant mantras: Spending the eclipse period in prayer, religious activities and mantra chanting is traditionally considered auspicious.

Take a bath: Some Hindu traditions recommend bathing before and after the eclipse.

Cover religious images: It is traditionally recommended to cover idols, pictures and religious images with a clean cloth during the eclipse.