What is Vikram Samvat? History, Origin, and Calculation
The historic northern & central Indian lunar-solar calendar system established by Emperor Vikramaditya.
By Indian Date Today Editorial · Updated August 2026
Vikram Samvat is one of the most widely used historical calendars in India and Nepal. Learn how it originated in 57 BCE, how its months and Tithis operate, and how to convert Vikram Samvat dates to the Gregorian calendar.
Origins and Historical Foundation
The Vikram Samvat era is named after the legendary Emperor Vikramaditya of Ujjain, who instituted this era in 57 BCE to commemorate his decisive victory over the Saka invaders. It is a lunisolar calendar that tracks both the phases of the Moon (for months and Tithis) and the position of the Sun (for seasonal alignment).
How Vikram Samvat Months Work
The Vikram Samvat year consists of 12 lunar months, starting with Chaitra (March-April). Each month is divided into two fortnights (Pakshas): Shukla Paksha (bright/waxing phase) and Krishna Paksha (dark/waning phase). To keep the lunar year aligned with the solar tropical year of ~365.24 days, an extra leap month called Adhik Maas (Purushottam Maas) is inserted roughly every 32.5 months.
| Month Number | Vikram Samvat Month | Gregorian Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chaitra | March – April |
| 2 | Vaisakha | April – May |
| 3 | Jyeshtha | May – June |
| 4 | Ashadha | June – July |
| 5 | Shravana | July – August |
| 6 | Bhadrapada | August – September |
| 7 | Ashwin | September – October |
| 8 | Kartika | October – November |
| 9 | Margashirsha | November – December |
| 10 | Pausha | December – January |
| 11 | Magha | January – February |
| 12 | Phalguna | February – March |
Converting Vikram Samvat to Gregorian Year
Because Vikram Samvat began in 57 BCE, its year count is ahead of the Gregorian calendar by 56 or 57 years: - From Chaitra Shukla Pratipada (March/April) to December: Add 57 to the Gregorian year. (e.g. 2026 + 57 = VS 2083) - From January to Chaitra New Year: Add 56 to the Gregorian year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Vikram Samvat older than the Gregorian calendar?
Yes, Vikram Samvat is 57 years older than the Gregorian calendar. When it is 2026 CE, the Vikram Samvat year is 2083.
Q: Where is Vikram Samvat used today?
It is the official national calendar of Nepal and is universally used across North, West, and Central India for determining religious fasts, festivals, and auspicious dates.