When is Chikhal Kalo 2026? Official Dates & Event Timings
If you are planning to experience Goa’s iconic monsoon traditions and are searching for when is Chikhal Kalo 2026, mark your calendar for Saturday, July 25, 2026.
Celebrated every year on Ashadhi Ekadashi (the 11th sacred day of the Ashadh month in the Hindu calendar), Chikhal Kalo turns the grounds of the historic Shree Devki Krishna Temple in Marcel into a mud playground inspired by the playful childhood of Lord Krishna.
While the core mud games take place on Ekadashi day, the Goa Tourism Department and local organizers host a 3-day festival celebration from July 24 to July 26, 2026.
Chikhal Kalo 2026 Schedule & Highlights
- Dates: July 24 – July 26, 2026
- Main Mud Play Day (Ashadhi Ekadashi): Saturday, July 25, 2026
- Venue: Shree Devki Krishna Temple Grounds, Marcel, Ponda, North Goa
- Main Mud Games Timing: 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM (July 25)
What to Expect During the 3-Day Celebration
- July 24, 2026 (Evening): Opening ceremonies featuring cooking competitions, traditional Goan music, and Abhangwari (devotional music concerts).
- July 25, 2026 (Main Festival Day): * Devotional chants inside the temple during the morning.
- Oiling of bodies by participants (govindas) at noon.
- Traditional mud games, tug-of-war, pillow fights, mock wrestling, and breaking of the Dahi Handi (curd pot human pyramid) in the afternoon.
- July 26, 2026: Concluding devotional ceremonies, feast distributions, and cultural performances.
Want to Know More About Chikhal Kalo? > If you want to dive deeper into the 400-year history of the mud games, traditional recipes served during the event, how to reach Marcel, and essential tips on what to wear, read our complete detailed guide:
Chikhal Kalo: Everything You Need to Know About Goa’s Ancient Mud Festival in Marcel
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the exact date for Chikhal Kalo 2026?
The main ritual mud games for Chikhal Kalo 2026 take place on Saturday, July 25, 2026, coinciding with Ashadhi Ekadashi.
Where is Chikhal Kalo celebrated in Goa?
The festival is celebrated exclusively in the village of Marcel (Ponda taluka), at the Devki Krishna Temple, located about 18 km from Panaji.
Is there an entry ticket for Chikhal Kalo 2026?
No, Chikhal Kalo is an open community festival, and attending the celebrations or watching the mud games is completely free for all visitors.