What is Paksha? Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha Explained
Paksha is the lunar fortnight in the Hindu calendar. Learn the difference between Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha, how they relate to tithi, and why festivals follow paksha.
Paksha means a lunar fortnight. In the Hindu calendar, each lunar month is divided into two pakshas: Shukla Paksha, the bright or waxing half, and Krishna Paksha, the dark or waning half.
Each paksha contains 15 tithis. Together, Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha make the 30 tithis of a lunar month.
In short: Shukla Paksha moves from Amavasya toward Purnima. Krishna Paksha moves from Purnima toward Amavasya.
Shukla Paksha
Shukla Paksha is the waxing phase of the Moon. It begins after Amavasya and culminates in Purnima, the full moon.
Since the Moon appears to grow brighter night by night, Shukla Paksha is often associated with growth, visibility, increase, and outward movement. Many festivals and auspicious beginnings are connected with Shukla Paksha tithis.
Krishna Paksha
Krishna Paksha is the waning phase of the Moon. It begins after Purnima and ends at Amavasya, the new moon.
Since the Moon appears to reduce in brightness, Krishna Paksha is often associated with inwardness, completion, austerity, worship, and release. Important vrats and observances also occur in Krishna Paksha.
Paksha and Tithi Names
The same tithi names appear in both pakshas. For example, there is a Shukla Ekadashi and a Krishna Ekadashi every lunar month.
| Paksha | Direction | Ends At |
|---|---|---|
| Shukla Paksha | Waxing moon | Purnima |
| Krishna Paksha | Waning moon | Amavasya |
Why Paksha Matters for Festivals
Festival dates are not described only by tithi name. The paksha matters too. Chaitra Shukla Navami, for example, is different from Chaitra Krishna Navami.
This is why Hindu festival descriptions often include month, paksha, and tithi together.
Paksha in Daily Panchang
When you check the panchang, paksha tells you where you are in the lunar cycle. It gives context to the current tithi and helps explain the movement from new moon to full moon and back again.
Paksha is the rhythm of the lunar month. Shukla Paksha expands toward fullness; Krishna Paksha returns toward stillness. Together they form the repeating pulse behind tithi, festivals, and Hindu lunar time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days are in one paksha?
One paksha has 15 tithis. Because tithis vary in length, a paksha does not always match exactly 15 solar days.
Which paksha is the waxing moon?
Shukla Paksha is the waxing phase, from Amavasya toward Purnima.
Which paksha is the waning moon?
Krishna Paksha is the waning phase, from Purnima toward Amavasya.
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