Tirumala Lunar Eclipse March 2026: Exact Date & Darshan Timings
The Tirumala Lunar Eclipse March 2026 has been officially confirmed, and devotees planning darshan at Tirumala must take note of the exact Grahanam date and timings. As per astronomical data aligned with Indian Standard Time (IST), a Penumbral Lunar Eclipse will occur on 03/03/2026 (Tuesday). However, temple closure at Tirumala depends strictly on whether the eclipse is visible in Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh. Traditionally, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) closes the temple only if the eclipse is visible locally. Therefore, understanding visibility, temple protocol, and darshan impact is crucial. During a lunar eclipse, rituals such as Suprabhatam, Archana, and Sevas are suspended. After the eclipse ends, purification (Sudhi) rituals are performed before reopening for darshan. This complete guide provides the confirmed date, IST timings, expected Tirumala temple procedure, darshan impact, booking advice, and official verification sources so you can plan your pilgrimage confidently and accurately.
Tirumala Lunar Eclipse March 2026 Date & IST Timings
Confirmed Eclipse Details (IST)
| Event | Date | Time (IST) |
|---|---|---|
| Penumbral Eclipse Begins | 03/03/2026 | 15:22 |
| Maximum Eclipse | 03/03/2026 | 17:12 |
| Penumbral Eclipse Ends | 03/03/2026 | 19:02 |
| Visibility in India | Yes (Evening sky, subject to weather) |
Since the eclipse occurs during evening hours in India, visibility in Andhra Pradesh, including Tirumala, is expected.
Important: TTD confirms closure only after assessing local visibility conditions.
Tirumala Lunar Eclipse March 2026 Temple Closure Protocol
If the eclipse remains visible in Tirumala:
- Temple doors will close before eclipse start
- Devotee entry will stop several hours earlier
- Naivedyam and Archana will pause
- All Sevas during eclipse hours will be cancelled
- After 19:02 IST, purification rituals will begin
- Darshan resumes only after Sudhi procedures
Typically, Tirumala remains closed for 6–8 hours during a visible lunar eclipse.
Impact on Darshan & Seva Bookings
Rs. 300 Special Entry Darshan
Slots falling between 15:00–21:00 may be cancelled or rescheduled.
Sarva Darshan
Queue lines may stop moving before 15:00 IST.
Sevas Likely Affected
- Suprabhatam
- Thomala Seva
- Archana
- Kalyanotsavam
- Unjal Seva
TTD usually issues a formal notification 2–3 days prior.
Should You Travel on 03/03/2026?
Safe Planning Option
Arrive on 02/03/2026 and take early morning darshan.
Avoid Same-Day Tight Schedule
If travelling from Hyderabad, Chennai, Bengaluru, or Mumbai on 03/03/2026, delays may disrupt plans.
Devotee Planning Checklist
✓ Confirm darshan slot time
✓ Avoid bookings between 14:00–21:00 IST
✓ Check official TTD website on 01/03/2026
✓ Keep accommodation flexible
✓ Avoid fixed return tickets on same evening
✓ Follow temple announcements strictly
Why Tirumala Closes During Lunar Eclipse
According to Hindu Agama traditions:
- Grahanam is considered spiritually sensitive
- Ritual energy resets after eclipse
- Purification rituals are mandatory
- Temple sanctum is reopened only after completion
This tradition is followed across major temples in India.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Tirumala temple closed on 03/03/2026?
Yes, if the eclipse remains visible in Tirumala, temple closure is expected during eclipse hours.
2. What type of eclipse is this?
It is a Penumbral Lunar Eclipse.
3. Will ₹300 tickets be refunded?
TTD generally reschedules or refunds affected slots as per policy.
4. Can I stay in Tirumala accommodation?
Yes, accommodation remains open; only temple entry is restricted.
5. When will darshan resume?
After 19:02 IST and completion of purification rituals.
6. Where can I verify official confirmation?
Through official TTD announcements.
Final Devotee Advisory
The Tirumala Lunar Eclipse March 2026 on 03/03/2026 will likely affect darshan between afternoon and evening hours. Therefore, plan your pilgrimage either before noon or the following day. Always confirm with official sources to avoid inconvenience. Proper planning ensures peaceful darshan without disruption.
External Official Links
Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams – https://tirumala.org
IMD Astronomical Events – https://mausam.imd.gov.in
