Tools & Calculators
By HDFC SKY | Updated at: Jul 28, 2025 06:05 PM IST
Summary

Intraday trading time in India refers to the period during which traders can buy and sell stocks within the same trading day. On both NSE and BSE, this time spans from 9:15 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays. Understanding intraday trading time is crucial for planning entry and exit points, especially in a fast-moving market.
The intraday trading time in India aligns with the stock market’s operating hours, which are from 9:15 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday to Friday (except public holidays). During this period, traders must buy and sell securities within the same session. Intraday timing within these hours plays a critical role in determining the success of your trades.
The initial 15 minutes-from 9:15 AM to 9:30 AM-is the most volatile part of the intraday trading time in India. This period often sees unpredictable price swings as the market reacts to overnight global cues and pre-market activity.
While this may be the best time for intraday trading for experienced investors, beginners may prefer to wait for the market to stabilise.
Unlike equities, intraday trading time in India for commodities extends much longer. Non-agricultural commodities like crude oil or gold can be traded from 9:00 AM to 11:55 PM, giving traders an extended time frame for intraday trading decisions.
The market closes at 3:30 PM, if a trader hasn’t closed their position by then, the broker might do it at prevailing market rates, it may also result in unfavourable outcomes.
When it comes to intraday trading, charts act as essential tools, providing traders with a visual representation of market movements. They simplify decision-making by helping identify trends, patterns, and potential opportunities. Let’s take a closer look at the most commonly used intraday charts and their applications.
Hourly charts divide the trading day into one-hour intervals, making them ideal for traders focusing on broader trends rather than quick trades.
For instance, if a trader observes consistently higher highs and higher lows on an hourly chart, they might conclude that the stock is in an uptrend and plan trades accordingly.
The 5-minute chart is a favourite among day traders, as it provides a detailed view of price movements during shorter intervals. It is especially useful for:
For example, if stock X shows a sudden spike in volume and price on a 5-minute chart, a trader might interpret it as a buying opportunity. and take a quick position.
Candlestick charts are among the most popular tools for intraday traders, offering a wealth of information in a single glance. These charts are valuable for:
For instance, if a bullish engulfing pattern forms on a candlestick chart, traders might anticipate a potential upward movement.
Intraday charts provide visual insights into stock movements, helping traders:
Different times during the trading session serve various purposes:
In India, intraday trading closing time is 3:30 PM, but most brokers initiate square-off procedures by 3:15 PM. So, if you’re wondering “at what time intraday trading ends”, plan to exit your positions by 3:15 PM to avoid unexpected charges or unfavourable prices
Mastering intraday trading time and knowing which time frame is best for intraday trading helps you make better decisions. Always stay updated with intraday trading time in India, square off before the intraday trading closing time, and choose trading windows based on your strategy and experience level.
Intraday trading in India occurs between 9:15 AM and 3:30 PM, Monday to Friday. All trades must be closed within this window, as positions cannot be carried forward to the next session.
The intraday trading closing time is 3:30 PM, but brokers often auto-square off positions between 3:15 PM and 3:20 PM to manage risks.
Select stocks with high liquidity and price movement. Use tools like technical charts to analyse trends and ensure the stock aligns with your trading strategy.
Intraday market timing is crucial as it helps traders align their strategies with market behaviour. For example, the morning session from 9:15 AM to 10:30 AM is highly volatile, while midday offers stability. Choosing the right timing can significantly impact trade outcomes.
The timing of intraday trading in India is from 9:15 AM to 3:30 PM. All intraday trades must be squared off before the market closes, ensuring no open positions are carried forward to the next day.
Intraday trading stock selection for beginners should focus on: