Kali Puja in Mymensingh 2026: Lamps, Pandals and Five Nights of Festival
Kali Puja in Mymensingh is one of the biggest and most colourful festivals of the district. Every year, as the new moon night of the Bengali month of Kartik arrives, temples fill with devotees, streets glow with earthen lamps and pandals rise across the city. In 2026, Kali Puja in Mymensingh falls on the night of Sunday, 8 November.
This guide explains what Kali Puja in Mymensingh looks like, when it happens, and how to visit as a respectful guest.
Quick Facts
- Main worship: the night of Sunday, 8 November 2026
- Festival length: pandals usually stay up for about four to six days
- Where: temples and puja mandaps across Mymensingh city
- Entry: open to the public at pandals, with no tickets
- Good for: culture lovers, photographers and families
What Is Kali Puja?
Kali Puja, also called Shyama Puja, is the worship of Goddess Kali. It is the second largest festival of the Bengali Hindu community after Durga Puja, and it falls on the same night as Diwali, the festival of lights. Devotees worship the goddess, light earthen lamps and candles at homes and temples, and share prasad.
Why Kali Puja in Mymensingh Is Special
National reports describe Mymensingh as home to one of the country’s most gorgeous Kali Puja celebrations, alongside Dhaka’s Shakhari Bazar and Tanti Bazar. Unlike many places, idols and pandals in Mymensingh stay in place for several days, so devotees and visitors can enjoy the festival for longer. That slow pace makes Kali Puja in Mymensingh a great time to see the city’s streets in a festive mood.
What Happens During Kali Puja in Mymensingh
- Opening ceremonies: in 2023, the festival formally began at the Durgabari temple with the lighting of earthen lamps.
- Worship and lamps: temples and homes glow with lamps, candles and decorations on the main night.
- Pandals and idols: puja committees set up decorated pandals, and many invite visitors to walk through.
- Immersion procession: on the final day, idols are taken out in a lively procession for immersion.
2026 Dates for Kali Puja in Mymensingh
The main worship is on the night of Sunday, 8 November 2026. In 2023, the festival began on 12 November and idol immersion took place on 16 November, giving about five days. If 2026 follows the same pattern, expect pandals from 8 to about 12 November. Please confirm exact days with local puja committees, as schedules can change.
How to Visit Kali Puja in Mymensingh Respectfully
- Dress modestly, and follow the rules of each temple.
- Remove shoes where asked, and do not enter inner shrines unless invited.
- Ask before photographing worshippers, especially during rituals.
- Avoid blocking narrow lanes, and keep to the side during processions.
- Customs vary from temple to temple, so observe quietly and ask politely if you are unsure.
Getting There
Mymensingh is about 120 km from Dhaka, and buses and trains run regularly. Because roads become crowded on festival nights, plan to arrive in the afternoon and leave before it gets very late. Walking is the best way to move between pandals in the city.
Combine It With Heritage Sites
Make the most of your trip with a visit to the 1820 twin temple of Shiva and Kali in Muktagachha, or a heritage walk through Shashi Lodge and the riverside. For more ideas, browse our Places to Visit collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Kali Puja in Mymensingh in 2026?
The main worship is on the night of Sunday, 8 November 2026, with pandals open for several days around it.
Can visitors of other faiths attend?
Pandals are generally open for respectful visitors. Follow temple rules and ask before photographing rituals.
Is Kali Puja in Mymensingh free?
Yes. Visiting public pandals does not require tickets.