When is the best time to perform Shradh at Gaya?

The scripturally most powerful time is Pitrupaksha — the 16 days of Bhadrapada Krishna Paksha (typically September). During this period, all ancestors are believed to descend to earth to receive offerings. Within Pitrupaksha, Sarva Pitru Amavasya (Mahalaya Amavasya, the last day) is the single most auspicious day. Outside Pitrupaksha, these days are considered especially powerful: (1) Annual death tithi of the ancestor being honoured, (2) Amavasya days (especially Somvati, Mauni, and Mahalaya), (3) Solar and Lunar eclipses (traditionally used for ancestral rites), (4) Makar Sankranti, (5) Akshaya Tritiya, (6) Kartik Purnima. For families with diagnosed Pitru Dosh, our pandits recommend performing Gaya Shradh on any of these special days for maximum effect. Booking 2-4 weeks in advance is recommended for these dates.