Best Time for Witr

Q: When is the best time to prayer witr prayer?

A: In general, the time for Witr prayer begins after the ‘Isha prayer, not valid before it, and concludes at the emergence of the second Fajr (when the adhan is called for Fajr prayer).

The preferred time for Witr is after the Sunnah of ‘Isha, as a recommended practice, to maintain continuity between ‘Isha and its Sunnah prayer. It is valid however, if prayed before the sunnah of Isha.

If the ‘Isha prayer was performed in a combined manner (Jam‘ Taqdīm)—meaning it was combined with Maghrib at Maghrib time—then Witr remains valid after the Isha prayer is performed until the emergence of the second Fajr, as previously mentioned.

The best time to perform Witr is at the end of the night for those who are confident they will wake up for it. Otherwise, if one is uncertain they will wake up, they should pray Witr before sleeping.

Source: Sharh al-Muntaha & Kashshaf al-Qina