Ayodhya, March 1: The first lunar eclipse of 2026 is set to occur on March 3, prompting the closure of temples across the country. The Ayodhya administration and temple management have already informed devotees to prevent any inconvenience.
According to astrological beliefs, the eclipse will begin at 3:19 PM on Tuesday and will last until 6:07 PM. It will be clearly visible in India. A significant period known as ‘Sutak’ will commence nine hours before the eclipse, which is considered highly important from a religious perspective.
Due to this Sutak period, all major temples will be closed to the general public from around 8 AM until 8:30 PM. During this time, no devotees will be allowed entry into the temples. This rule will apply to all major and renowned temples in the district, including the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.
District Collector Nikhil Tikaram Punde stated that it is customary in Ayodhya for all temples to close during a lunar eclipse, and no darshan will take place during these dates and times. He confirmed that all major temples in the district will be closed for public viewing on March 3. After the eclipse concludes and the rituals are completed, the temples will reopen, allowing devotees to participate in darshan and worship as usual. Therefore, visitors to Ayodhya on this day should plan their visit accordingly.
Not only Ayodhya, but temples across the country will also remain closed to the public during the lunar eclipse, with entry restricted until after the eclipse ends.
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