The year 2025 has now officially come to an end, and the new year is about to start, and if you are planning your leaves, vacations, or long weekends in advance, it is the right time. We have a complete list of public holidays in 2026 in India, including national holidays and major festival holidays observed across the country. While some holidays are celebrated nationwide, others may vary slightly depending on state government notifications.
National Public Holidays in India 2026
India observes three national holidays every year. These are mandatory holidays for government offices, banks, and most institutions across the country.
Republic Day: January 26, Monday
Independence Day: August 15, Saturday
Gandhi Jayanti: October 2, Friday
These holidays are observed uniformly across India.
List of Major Public Holidays in 2026 (Pan-India)
Below is a list of widely observed public holidays and festivals in 2026. Actual holidays may differ slightly by state and organisation:
January 2026
New Year’s Day: January 1, Thursday
Republic Day: January 26, Monday
March 2026
Maha Shivaratri: March 15, Sunday
Holi: March 4, Wednesday
April 2026
Good Friday: April 3, Friday
Ram Navami: April 15, Wednesday
Mahavir Jayanti: April 18, Saturday
May 2026
Buddha Purnima: May 3, Sunday
August 2026
Independence Day: August 15, Saturday
Raksha Bandhan: August 29, Saturday
September 2026
Janmashtami: September 14, Monday
October 2026
Gandhi Jayanti: October 2, Friday
Dussehra (Vijayadashami): October 20, Tuesday
November 2026
Diwali (Deepavali): November 8, Sunday
Guru Nanak Jayanti: November 24, Tuesday
December 2026
Christmas: December 25, Friday
State-Specific Holidays May Vary
It is important to note that state governments announce additional regional holidays such as local festivals, foundation days, and cultural observances. Bank holidays, school holidays, and private company holidays may also differ depending on state-wise calendars issued by authorities and the Reserve Bank of India.
Plan Your Leaves and Long Weekends in 2026
With several festivals falling close to weekends, 2026 offers good opportunities for long weekends by combining public holidays with planned leave. Employees are advised to check state holiday lists and company-specific calendars for final confirmation.
This early overview of public holidays in India in 2026 can help you plan travel, family time, and work schedules more efficiently.
