Public Holidays in India 2026: List of National and Government Holidays

As we approach the new year, the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) has released the formal schedule for public holidays in India 2026. 

This calendar is a vital resource for central government employees, private-sector professionals, and students to plan their annual leave and travel. The 2026 Indian holiday calendar highlights 17 mandatory gazetted holidays and a wide array of restricted holidays, reflecting the nation's rich cultural and religious diversity. 

Key national holidays in India in 2026, such as Independence Day and Gandhi Jayanti, are fixed, while several festival dates remain subject to lunar sightings. 

Staying updated with this official list of public holidays ensures seamless coordination of professional deadlines and personal celebrations.

Official List of Gazetted and National Holidays in India 2026

Gazetted holidays are mandatory public holidays observed by all central government offices, banks, and educational institutions across the country. These dates constitute the primary government holidays in 2026.

Source: india.gov.in (Holiday Calendar)

Also Read - What are the Differences Between Restricted Holidays and Gazetted Holidays

List of Restricted Public Holidays in India 2026

Restricted holidays (RH) are optional leaves. Central government employees can select any two days from the following list to observe according to their religious or personal traditions.

Source:  Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) Official Notification

Check Out - US Federal Holidays 2026: When is the Next Long Weekend? (Full List)

This list of public holidays in India for 2026 is an important tool for balancing work and cultural celebrations. You can plan your work and personal life more effectively by knowing the difference between gazetted and restricted holidays. Always check with your local state government or specific HR policies to make sure the dates are correct. This is because the dates of festivals may change from year to year, depending on the lunar cycle.