Quick answer: Dussehra 2026 (Vijayadashami) in Goa is on Tuesday, 20 October 2026 (Navratri 11–19 October; Durga Ashtami 18, Maha Navami 19). Goa celebrates Navratri with makhar and taranga processions at its temples and Dasara (Dasro) with seemollanghan and the exchange of gold-symbolising aaptyachi leaves. Perform the Vijayadashami puja in the Aparahna (early-afternoon) window — confirm the exact Vijay Muhurat for Panaji with a local panchang.

Goa celebrates Navratri with makhar and taranga processions at its temples and Dasara (Dasro) with seemollanghan and the exchange of gold-symbolising aaptyachi leaves.

How Goa celebrates Dussehra & Navratri 2026

During Navratri, deities at temples such as Shantadurga (Kavlem), Mangeshi, Mahalasa (Mardol) and Kamakshi (Shiroda) are placed on decorated silver swings (makhar) and honoured with taranga (sacred umbrella-standards) processions. On Dasara, the tarangas cross the village boundary in the seemollanghan ritual.

Advertisement

Families and devotees exchange aaptyachi pana (apta leaves) as gold, and cultural programmes fill temple courtyards through the nine nights.

Where to celebrate in Goa

  • Shantadurga temple, Kavlem
  • Shri Mangeshi temple, Mangeshi
  • Mahalasa Narayani, Mardol
  • Kamakshi temple, Shiroda

Dussehra 2026 dates in Goa

Date

Observance

Advertisement

Sunday, 11 October

Navratri begins (Ghatasthapana)

Sunday, 18 October

Durga Ashtami

Monday, 19 October

Maha Navami / Ayudha Puja

Advertisement

Tuesday, 20 October

Dussehra / Vijayadashami

Sunday, 8 November

Diwali

The Vijay Muhurat falls in the early afternoon and varies by city; use a panchang set to your town or check today's panchangam for Panaji and other cities in Goa. Neighbouring Karnataka observes Vijayadashami on 21 October under the Mysuru panchanga.

Frequently asked questions

When is Navratri and Dasara 2026 in Goa?

Navratri runs 11–19 October 2026 and Dasara (Vijayadashami) is on 20 October.

What is the makhar during Goan Navratri?

A decorated silver swing on which temple deities are placed and gently swung each night of Navratri, a hallmark of Goan celebrations.

Dussehra & Navratri 2026 — India state guides

Explore Dussehra, Navratri and Dasara 2026 across India and the wider guides: