February Holidays 2026 In India

February Holidays in India 2026: Your Essential Guide to Planning & Celebration

Planning a trip to India in February 2026? Or maybe you have business interests, family connections, or simply a curiosity about India’s vibrant culture? Knowing the local holidays is absolutely crucial. Forget generic lists or confused calendars; this guide cuts straight to what you need to know, especially if you’re coming from or living in the USA.

February in India is a beautiful time – often marked by pleasant weather, fewer crowds (outside of specific festival zones), and a unique blend of cultural and religious observances. However, these holidays can significantly impact your travel plans, business operations, and even simply connecting with people. Don’t get caught off guard. Let’s dive in.

Understanding India’s Holiday System: Public, Restricted, and Bank Holidays

India’s holiday landscape isn’t as straightforward as a simple ‘national holiday’ list. There are nuances, and understanding them is key to smart planning.

Public Holidays: What They Mean for Everyone

Public Holidays, also known as Gazetted Holidays, are officially observed nationwide. This means most government offices, banks, and many businesses will be closed. Think of them as similar to federal holidays in the US. If you’re traveling, expect reduced services, potential public transport adjustments, and possibly larger crowds at religious sites or popular destinations.

Restricted Holidays: Choices and Cultural Significance

Restricted Holidays are optional holidays. Government employees, for instance, are usually allowed to choose a couple of these days off from a comprehensive list. For the private sector, it varies by company policy. These holidays are often tied to specific religious or regional observances, allowing individuals to celebrate festivals important to their faith or culture without shutting down the entire country. You might find some smaller businesses or shops closed if their owners observe a particular restricted holiday.

Bank Holidays: Impact on Financial Services

Bank Holidays are precisely what they sound like: days when banks are closed for public transactions. While many public holidays are also bank holidays, there are specific regional bank holidays that vary by state. This is especially important for anyone needing to conduct financial transactions, whether it’s currency exchange, banking operations, or wire transfers. Digital banking might still be available, but physical branches will be shut.

February 2026: Key National and Regional Holidays in India

February 2026 presents a fascinating mix of holidays, predominantly religious in nature, reflecting India’s diverse spiritual fabric. While there are no nationwide public holidays in February 2026, several significant restricted and regional observances take place.

Here’s a clear breakdown of the holidays you should be aware of:

Date	Day	Holiday Name	Type	Key Significance & Common Observance
February 1, 2026	Sunday	Guru Ravidas Jayanti	Restricted / Regional Bank Holiday	Celebrates the birth anniversary of Guru Ravidas, a 15th-century Indian mystic and social reformer. Observed particularly in Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh. People visit Gurdwaras and hold religious processions.
February 15, 2026	Sunday	Maha Shivaratri	Restricted / Regional Bank Holiday	One of the most significant Hindu festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees fast, chant prayers, and visit Shiva temples, especially through the night. Celebrated across India with varying intensity.
February 19, 2026	Thursday	Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti	State Public Holiday (Maharashtra)	Celebrates the birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire. This is a significant public holiday specifically in the state of Maharashtra, with parades and cultural events.
February 24, 2026	Tuesday	Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati Jayanti	Restricted Holiday	Commemorates the birth of Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati, the founder of the Arya Samaj, a Hindu reform movement. Observed by followers with prayers and discussions.

Guru Ravidas Jayanti (February 1, 2026)

Marking the birth anniversary of Guru Ravidas, a revered saint, philosopher, and social reformer, this day holds particular significance for his followers. Born in the 15th century, Guru Ravidas propagated messages of equality, human dignity, and devotion. Celebrations often involve devotional songs (kirtan), processions, and community meals (langar) at Gurdwaras (Sikh temples) and other places of worship, especially in North Indian states like Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh. While not a national public holiday, its observance can lead to regional bank closures and a festive atmosphere in specific communities.

Maha Shivaratri (February 15, 2026)

One of the most auspicious festivals in Hinduism, Maha Shivaratri is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees observe a day and night fast, perform elaborate pujas (rituals) with offerings of milk, bilva leaves, fruits, and flowers, and chant prayers. Temples dedicated to Shiva come alive with devotees, especially during the ‘Jaagaran’ – an all-night vigil. The festival is celebrated with immense fervor across India, from the ancient temples of Varanasi to the southern states. If you’re in India during this time, consider visiting a Shiva temple to witness the incredible devotion and spiritual energy. Expect large crowds around major temples.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti (February 19, 2026 – Regional)

This holiday is a significant one, but primarily a state public holiday in Maharashtra. It celebrates the birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, a revered Maratha warrior king known for his administrative skills, military prowess, and establishment of a strong independent Maratha kingdom in the 17th century. In Maharashtra, expect parades, cultural programs, and public speeches eulogizing Shivaji’s legacy. Government offices, schools, and many businesses in Maharashtra will be closed on this day. If your travel or business plans involve Maharashtra, this is a key date to note.

Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati Jayanti (February 24, 2026)

This is a restricted holiday commemorating the birth of Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati, a profound religious and social reformer who founded the Arya Samaj in 1875. He advocated for a return to the Vedas and worked towards eliminating social evils like caste discrimination and child marriage. Followers of Arya Samaj observe this day with special prayers, havans (fire rituals), and educational programs. While it won’t impact general public services significantly, it reflects the intellectual and spiritual diversity that underpins Indian culture.

Other Notable Regional Observances

While the above are the most prominent, India’s calendar is incredibly rich. Depending on the state or specific community, you might encounter local festivals or observances not listed here. For example, some communities in states like Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and Ladakh might celebrate Losar (Tibetan New Year) around this time, though the exact date varies based on the lunar calendar.

State-Wise Bank Holidays in February 2026

This is where things get truly granular. While the major holidays affect many regions, certain bank holidays are specific to individual states or even union territories. If you’re planning financial transactions, ensure you check the specific bank holiday list for the state you’ll be in.

Please note: While every effort is made to provide accurate data, state governments sometimes announce last-minute changes or additions. Always cross-reference with local bank branches or official state government gazettes for the most current information, especially if your plans are critically dependent on bank operations.

Date	Day	Holiday Name	Affected States / Regions (Indicative)
February 1, 2026	Sunday	Guru Ravidas Jayanti	Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Chandigarh
February 15, 2026	Sunday	Maha Shivaratri	Many states, but often observed as a bank holiday in: Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, West Bengal
February 19, 2026	Thursday	Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti	Maharashtra
February 28, 2026	Saturday	Fourth Saturday of the Month	All India (All banks are closed on 2nd & 4th Saturdays)

It’s important to remember that all banks in India are typically closed on the second and fourth Saturdays of every month, in addition to Sundays and declared holidays. February 2026 has the 14th and 28th as bank holidays due to this rule.

Planning Your Trip or Business Around February 2026 Holidays in India (for a US Audience)

For those of us in the US eyeing India in February 2026, these holidays aren’t just dates on a calendar; they’re practical considerations that can shape your entire experience.

Travel Considerations: What to Expect

• Crowds: During major religious observances like Maha Shivaratri, popular temples and pilgrimage sites will experience significantly higher footfall. If you plan to visit such places, prepare for queues, plan your timings carefully, and respect local customs.
• Transportation: While national transport networks generally run on public holidays, regional festivals can lead to localized disruptions or increased demand for trains and buses. Book tickets well in advance, especially if you’re traveling to or from a region celebrating a major festival.
• Accommodation: Hotels, especially near festival hubs, might see higher occupancy and prices. Secure your bookings early to avoid last-minute hassles.
• Restaurant & Shop Hours: In areas celebrating a holiday, smaller, family-run establishments might be closed. However, larger hotels and restaurant chains usually remain open.

My personal tip: If you’re looking for a quieter trip, plan your itinerary to avoid major festival centers on the exact day. If you want to dive into the celebrations, embrace the energy, but be prepared for the logistical implications.

Business Operations: Staying Ahead

For US-based businesses with operations, partners, or clients in India, understanding these holidays is paramount for seamless communication and project management.

• Bank Closures: This is the biggest one. Bank holidays mean no transactions, no wire transfers, and no physical banking services. Plan your payrolls, payments, and financial dealings accordingly, well in advance of the holiday dates.
• Government Offices: All central and state government offices will be closed on their respective public holidays. If you’re dealing with bureaucracy, permits, or official documentation, factor in these non-working days.
• Supply Chain & Logistics: Restricted holidays can sometimes lead to localized slowdowns, especially if key personnel or transport services are observing the day. Confirm operational status with your Indian partners.
• Communication: Be mindful of time differences and holiday schedules when setting meeting times or expecting responses. A quick email asking, “Are you observing [Holiday Name] on [Date]?” can save a lot of headaches.

Embracing the Culture: Participating in Festivities

Beyond the practicalities, holidays are a window into the soul of India. If you find yourself there during a festival:

• Ask Locals: Don’t be shy! Locals are often delighted to share their traditions. Ask about the significance of the festival and how they celebrate.
• Dress Respectfully: Especially when visiting religious sites, modest attire is always appreciated.
• Participate (if invited): If you’re invited to join a celebration or a community meal, it’s a wonderful opportunity to experience authentic Indian culture.

Beyond February: A Glimpse into India’s Diverse Calendar

February, while culturally rich, is just a peek into India’s colossal calendar of festivals and observances. The country celebrates holidays from every major religion and numerous regional traditions throughout the year. From the dazzling lights of Diwali to the colorful revelry of Holi, the solemnity of Eid, or the grandeur of Christmas, India’s calendar is a testament to its unity in diversity.

Whether you’re planning for February 2026 or beyond, always consult reliable and localized sources for the most up-to-date holiday information. Being informed means you can not only navigate your travel or business smoothly but also truly appreciate the vibrant tapestry that is India.

So, go ahead and finalize those plans for February 2026. Armed with this knowledge, you’re not just a visitor; you’re an informed traveler, ready to engage with India’s rhythm and rich cultural heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any nationwide public holidays in India during February 2026?

No, there are no nationwide public (Gazetted) holidays in India during February 2026. However, there are significant restricted holidays like Maha Shivaratri and Guru Ravidas Jayanti, and a state public holiday in Maharashtra for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti.

What is the difference between Public, Restricted, and Bank Holidays in India?

Public Holidays are compulsory national holidays for most government offices and banks. Restricted Holidays are optional holidays, often for specific religious or cultural groups, where employees may choose a few days off. Bank Holidays are days when banks are closed for public transactions, which can include public holidays and specific regional observances.

Will banks be closed during February 2026 in India?

Yes, banks will be closed on Sundays and the second and fourth Saturdays of February (February 14 and February 28, 2026). Additionally, banks in specific states will observe closures for regional holidays like Guru Ravidas Jayanti and Maha Shivaratri. It’s crucial to check the specific state’s bank holiday list if you need to conduct financial transactions.

What is Maha Shivaratri and how might it affect my trip in February 2026?

Maha Shivaratri (February 15, 2026) is a major Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva. Expect large crowds and high spiritual activity at Shiva temples across India. While not a national public holiday, it’s a significant restricted holiday and often a regional bank holiday. If you plan to visit temples, prepare for queues and a very festive atmosphere.

I’m doing business in Maharashtra. Are there any specific holidays I should be aware of in February 2026?

Yes, Maharashtra observes Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti on February 19, 2026, as a state public holiday. Government offices, schools, and many businesses in Maharashtra will be closed on this day. Plan your business communications and operations accordingly for this specific region.

How should I prepare for travel in India during February holidays?

Book flights, trains, and accommodation well in advance, especially if traveling to areas observing major festivals. Be prepared for larger crowds at popular sites. While national transport generally runs, localized disruptions are possible. Always respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious places. Check regional advisories for specific holiday impacts.