Punjab Kings IPL 2026: The Ultimate Home Match Schedule & Fan Stay Guide
The wait is finally over! The cricket fever is back as the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season officially kicks off. For the “Sher-e-Punjab” faithful, this year carries an extra layer of excitement. Following a heart-stopping 2025 season where the Punjab Kings (PBKS) pushed the finals to the very last ball, the team returns with a hunger for their maiden title.
If you are planning to witness the action live, your destination is the magnificent Maharaja Yadavindra Singh PCA International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur (New Chandigarh). This modern cricketing fortress is set to host the home games for PBKS, offering fans a world-class experience. However, with the thrill of the IPL comes the logistical challenge of travel and accommodation.
Whether you are flying in from Mumbai, driving from Delhi, or a local supporter from Faridabad, this comprehensive guide covers the full IPL 2026 home match schedule and the most strategic places to stay to ensure your cricket weekend is seamless and stress-free.
Punjab Kings IPL 2026: Home Match Schedule (Phase 1)
The BCCI has released the initial phase of the schedule, and Mullanpur is ready to light up for some high-octane evening and afternoon clashes. Here are the confirmed home fixtures for the Punjab Kings at the New PCA Stadium:
| Date | Opponent | Time (IST) | Venue |
| March 31, 2026 (Tuesday) | Gujarat Titans (GT) | 7:30 PM | Mullanpur Stadium |
| April 11, 2026 (Saturday) | Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) | 3:30 PM | Mullanpur Stadium |
Note: The remaining home matches will be announced in Phase 2 of the schedule release. Keep an eye on the official IPL app for updates on clashes against rivals like Mumbai Indians and RCB!
1. Why Choose a Hotel in Mohali?
Mohali is the heart of Punjab’s sporting culture. By choosing a hotel in Mohali, you stay close to the vibrant markets and high-end dining of Phase 3 and Phase 7, while remaining just a short drive away from the new stadium.
- Proximity to Transport: Mohali is home to the major ISBT (Bus Terminal) and is just a stone’s throw from the Chandigarh International Airport.
- Vibrant Atmosphere: On match days, the entire city of Mohali turns into a fan zone, with screenings and cricket-themed events.
2. The “Smart Shortcut”: Staying at a Hotel in Kharar
Kharar has rapidly emerged as the most strategic transit point for travelers heading toward the Mullanpur Stadium.
- Traffic Avoidance: By staying at a hotel in Kharar, you bypass the inner-city congestion of Chandigarh entirely. You can use the New Sunny Enclave or PR-7 routes to reach the stadium in under 20-25 minutes.
- Better Value: Kharar offers some of the most competitive rates in the region, allowing you to find a high-quality, budget friendly hotel even during the peak IPL season.
3. The Transit King: Hotel on Manali Chandigarh Highway
If you are planning to extend your trip into a vacation, finding a hotel on the Manali Chandigarh Highway is a masterstroke.
- Gateway to the Hills: Watch the match on Saturday and head straight to Shimla or Kasauli on Sunday morning without ever getting stuck in city traffic.
- Modern Amenities: New properties along this highway, such as Hotel Chandigarh Heights, cater specifically to travelers looking for clean, spacious rooms and excellent in-room dining to recharge after a late-night game.
Our Recommendation: Hotel Chandigarh Heights
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly hotel in Mohali that doesn’t compromise on comfort, Hotel Chandigarh Heights is a top-rated transit choice.
- Location: Perfectly situated on the Airport Road / Manali Highway.
- Perks: Clean, modern rooms, highly-rated staff service, and a dedicated restaurant to fuel up before the game.
- Travel Tip: After the late-night match on March 31, you won’t want a long drive. This location ensures you’re back in your bed and relaxing within minutes.
Pro-Tips for an Unforgettable IPL 2026 Experience
To make the most of your trip to see the Punjab Kings, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Beat the Mullanpur Traffic: The roads leading to the New PCA Stadium can get incredibly crowded 2-3 hours before a match. For a 7:30 PM start, aim to leave your hotel by 4:30 PM. This gives you time to navigate the security checkpoints and enjoy the stadium’s pre-match entertainment.
- Parking Strategy: The PCA has recently expanded parking at Mullanpur to accommodate over 15,000 vehicles. However, these lots fill up fast. If you aren’t driving, local app-based cabs (Uber/Ola) are available, but expect “surge pricing” immediately after the match ends.
- The “Double-Header” Trip: If you are attending the April 11th afternoon match against Sunrisers Hyderabad, stay the night in Mohali and use the next day to explore the Rock Garden or the Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh before heading home.
- Book Early: IPL season is the busiest time for the hospitality industry in the Tricity (Chandigarh-Mohali-Panchkula). If you are looking for a budget friendly hotel, booking at least 15-20 days in advance is essential to lock in lower rates.
Why Support the Shers in 2026?
This season feels different for the Punjab Kings. Under the aggressive leadership of Shreyas Iyer and the tactical brilliance of head coach Ricky Ponting, the squad looks more balanced than ever. With the explosive batting of Prabhsimran Singh and the world-class bowling of Arshdeep Singh, the Kings are ready to dominate at Mullanpur.
There is nothing quite like the experience of being in the stands when the Punjab dhol starts playing. The energy of the Mullanpur stadium, combined with the hospitality of a great hotel in Mohali, makes for a world-class sporting holiday.
Conclusion
Don’t let logistics stop you from supporting your team. By choosing a hotel in Kharar or a property on the Manali Chandigarh Highway, you ensure that your focus stays on the cricket, not the commute.
Are you ready to roar with the Kings? Book your stay today and get ready for a season of spectacular sixes and nail-biting finishes!
