Phalguna Shukla Ekadashi
Amalaki Ekadashi
Also known as Amla Ekadashi
Amalaki Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the bright fortnight of Phalguna, in the days just before Holi. Almost alone among the Ekadashis, its worship is offered at a tree: the amalaki, or Indian gooseberry.
2026
Friday, 27 February 2026
2027
Thursday, 18 March 2027
The day at a glance
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Significance
Tradition holds the amla to have arisen with creation itself and to be especially dear to Vishnu, who is said to dwell in it. Coming in the week that ends at the Holika bonfire, the day also carries the turn of the season: it is the last Ekadashi before the purnimanta year gives way to the next.
How Amalaki Ekadashi is observed
Devotees fast from grains and gather at an amla tree to water its roots, circle it and keep lamps there through the night. Where no tree is available, an amla fruit is placed before Vishnu instead and eaten when the fast is broken.
FAQ
Why is the amla tree worshipped on this day?
The tree is held to be beloved of Vishnu and to have appeared with creation itself; on Amalaki Ekadashi the day’s worship is offered at its roots rather than indoors.
When does it fall relative to Holi?
It falls in the same bright fortnight of Phalguna that ends at Holika Dahan, three or four days earlier depending on the tithis. It is the last Ekadashi before Holi.
What is done if there is no amla tree nearby?
An amla fruit is placed before the image of Vishnu and worshipped in the tree’s stead.
Around the same season
Plan around Amalaki Ekadashi
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