Quick answer: Dussehra 2026 (Vijayadashami) in Jammu & Kashmir is on Tuesday, 20 October 2026 (Navratri 11–19 October; Durga Ashtami 18, Maha Navami 19). In Jammu & Kashmir the season centres on the Navratri pilgrimage to Mata Vaishno Devi, alongside Jammu’s Ramlila and Ravan Dahan. Perform the Vijayadashami puja in the Aparahna (early-afternoon) window — confirm the exact Vijay Muhurat for Jammu / Srinagar with a local panchang.

In Jammu & Kashmir the season centres on the Navratri pilgrimage to Mata Vaishno Devi, alongside Jammu’s Ramlila and Ravan Dahan.

How Jammu & Kashmir celebrates Dussehra & Navratri 2026

Navratri brings enormous crowds to the Vaishno Devi shrine at Katra, one of India’s most visited pilgrimages, and to the Bahu Fort Kali temple in Jammu. Jammu city holds Ramlila and burns Ravana effigies on Vijayadashami.

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Where to celebrate in Jammu & Kashmir

  • Mata Vaishno Devi, Katra
  • Bahu Fort Mahakali temple, Jammu
  • Jammu Ramlila and Ravan Dahan grounds

Dussehra 2026 dates in Jammu & Kashmir

Date

Observance

Sunday, 11 October

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Navratri begins (Ghatasthapana)

Sunday, 18 October

Durga Ashtami

Monday, 19 October

Maha Navami / Ayudha Puja

Tuesday, 20 October

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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 Jammu / Srinagar and other cities in Jammu & Kashmir. Neighbouring Karnataka observes Vijayadashami on 21 October under the Mysuru panchanga.

Frequently asked questions

When is Dussehra / Navratri 2026 in Jammu & Kashmir?

Navratri runs 11–19 October 2026 and Vijayadashami is on 20 October; the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage peaks through the nine nights.

Dussehra & Navratri 2026 — India state guides

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