Festival guide
Makar Sankranti
मकर संक्रांति
Sun enters Capricorn, marking longer days. Celebrated with kite flying and sesame sweets.
At a glance
How is Makar Sankranti dated?
Makar Sankranti is an annual Hindu observance whose Gregorian date can change each year. Samvat calculates each year's date from its sankranti Panchang rule; choose a year for the exact date and tithi.
Also known as: Sankranti, Uttarayan, Khichdi Parv.
Yearly reference
Makar Sankranti dates by year
Choose a year for the exact Gregorian date, Hindu date, observance rule, and related calendar links.
Why this date?
Calculated when the Sun enters Makara (Capricorn) rashi in sidereal zodiac. This is one of the few solar-based Hindu festivals, occurring around January 14-15 each year when the Sun crosses 270° sidereal longitude.
Learn how Hindu calendar dates are calculatedMakar Sankranti tithi and Panchang details
Date determined by
Solar ingress (Sankranti)Category
Major festivalNakshatra
AnuradhaDietary practice
No specific restrictionSignificance
One of the few Hindu festivals based on solar calendar. Marks the end of winter solstice.
Traditions and Regions
Traditions
Observed in
Common questions
How is Makar Sankranti dated?
Makar Sankranti is an annual Hindu observance whose Gregorian date can change each year. Samvat calculates each year's date from its sankranti Panchang rule; choose a year for the exact date and tithi.
What is the tithi for Makar Sankranti?
The Hindu date is calculated separately each year from the tithi, paksha, and Hindu month for Makar Sankranti. Choose a year above to see the details.
Can the date differ by city?
Yes. Panchang values depend on sunrise, sunset, moonrise, and timezone. Samvat's public festival page uses an India-baseline calculation; local observance can differ by city, sampradaya, or family tradition.