Holidays in August 2025

As the mid-monsoon season sets in, August is a great time to enjoy vacations with your loved ones or take a solo trip. Planning a trip at this time of the year will give you much-needed relaxation and rejuvenation. August has various regional and national holidays. Let us look at the list of holidays for August 2025.

Here are all the holidays you can get in August 2025.

Note that the banks will remain closed on the following days. 

Here is a list of public holidays categorised as ‘gazetted’ as issued by the government of India: 

Some restricted holidays which you can opt for in August 2025 are as follows: 

Here is a quick review of the significance of a few festivals observed in August 2025. 

Friendship Day

A global celebration of camaraderie, Friendship Day is a chance to cherish the bonds of friendship. People exchange friendship bands, cards, and gifts or spend time with friends to honour their connection. Social gatherings and heartfelt messages often mark this day. 

Raksha Bandhan

A cherished Indian festival celebrating the bond between siblings, Raksha Bandhan involves sisters tying a rakhi (sacred thread) on their brother's wrists, symbolising protection and care. Brothers, in turn, offer gifts and pledge to safeguard their sisters. Families come together to celebrate with traditional sweets and rituals. 

Independence Day

India's Independence Day is a national holiday commemorating the country’s freedom from British rule in 1947. Flag hoisting ceremonies, cultural events, and patriotic displays take place across the country. It’s a day of reflection on India’s journey as a sovereign nation and a time to honour its freedom fighters. 

International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples

This day focuses on promoting and protecting the rights of indigenous communities worldwide. Celebrations include cultural events, exhibitions, and discussions about preserving indigenous languages, traditions, and heritage. It’s an opportunity to learn about the contributions of indigenous peoples to global diversity. 

Parsi New Year

This festival, celebrated by the Parsi community, marks the beginning of the new year in the Zoroastrian calendar. Families clean and decorate their homes, prepare special meals, and visit fire temples for prayers. It’s a day of renewal, feasting, and joy, embodying the spirit of harmony and gratitude. 

Janmashtami

Janmashtami is a grand celebration of Lord Krishna’s birth. He is considered to be one of Hinduism’s most revered deities. Devotees observe fasting, sing devotional songs, and re-enact scenes from Krishna’s life. Temples are decorated and various ceremonies are held in honour of Lord Krishna. Also, the ‘Dahi Handi’ tradition adds a festive element. Herein, participants form human pyramids to reach a certain and break open a pot of curd. 

Ganesh Chaturthi

Ganesh Chaturthi is the celebration of the birth of Lord Ganesha. He is considered to be a remover of obstacles as well as the deity of wisdom. Homes and public spaces are decorated with Ganesha idols, and prayers are offered during the 10-day festival. It concludes with a grand procession, where the idols are immersed in water, symbolising Ganesha's return to his heavenly abode. 

Jhulan Purnima

Jhulan Purnima, also known as Jhulan Yatra, is a joyous Vaishnavite festival celebrated during the monsoon month of Shravana (July–August). Devotees honour the divine love of Radha and Krishna by placing their idols on elaborately decorated swings, accompanied by devotional songs and dances. This vibrant celebration is especially prominent in regions like Vrindavan, Odisha, and West Bengal. 

Tendong Lho Rum Faat

Tendong Lho Rum Faat is a sacred festival of the Lepcha community in Sikkim, observed in August. It commemorates the legend of ancestors seeking refuge on Mount Tendong to escape a great flood. The festival features prayers, traditional dances, and rituals, reflecting the Lepchas' reverence for nature and their cultural heritage. 

Ayyankali Jayanthi

Ayyankali Jayanthi, observed on August 28th in Kerala, honours the birth anniversary of Mahatma Ayyankali, a pioneering social reformer who championed the rights of the oppressed. His relentless efforts led to significant advancements in education and social equality for marginalised communities. The day is marked by tributes and events celebrating his enduring legacy. 

Patriot’s Day

Patriot’s Day is observed annually on August 13th in Manipur to commemorate the valiant heroes of the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891. It honours figures like Bir Tikendrajit and Thangal General, who sacrificed their lives resisting British colonial rule. The day is marked by solemn ceremonies and tributes across the state. 

De Jure Transfer Day

De Jure Transfer Day, celebrated on August 16th in Puducherry, marks the official merger of the former French territories with the Indian Union in 1962. Following the ratification of the Treaty of Cession by the French Parliament, this day signifies Puducherry's complete integration into India, commemorated with official ceremonies and cultural events. 

Hartalika Teej

Hartalika Teej is a significant Hindu festival celebrated by women, particularly in North and West India. Observed during the Shukla Paksha Tritiya of Bhadrapada (August–September), it commemorates Goddess Parvati's devotion to Lord Shiva. Women observe a strict fast, pray for marital bliss, and participate in rituals symbolising love and dedication. 

Nuakhai

Nuakhai is a prominent harvest festival celebrated in Western Odisha and neighbouring regions, observed the day after Ganesh Chaturthi. It signifies the offering of the season's first rice to the deities, followed by communal feasting and cultural performances. The festival fosters social harmony and gratitude for agricultural abundance.

Here are some great ways in which you can celebrate various festivals and occasions in August: 

Friendship Day

Spend quality time with your friends by organising a small gathering, exchanging thoughtful gifts or friendship bands, and reminiscing about shared memories. You can also plan an outing or participate in fun group activities to strengthen your bond.

Raksha Bandhan

Celebrate the sibling bond by performing the traditional rakhi-tying ritual, followed by a family meal with festive delicacies. Exchange gifts or heartfelt messages to make the occasion special. Even if you’re apart, connect virtually to honour this cherished tradition.

Independence Day

Show your patriotism by attending flag-hoisting ceremonies, watching cultural performances, or participating in community clean-up drives. Spend the day reflecting on India’s history and contributions, and engage children with educational activities about the nation’s freedom struggle.

International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples

Join workshops, exhibitions, or events highlighting indigenous cultures. Support indigenous artisans by purchasing handmade goods or learning about their traditions and challenges. Spread awareness on social media to amplify their voices.

Parsi New Year

Zoroastrians can celebrate the new year by visiting a fire temple for prayers. You can prepare traditional Parsi dishes such as Patra ni Machhi, Chicken Farcha, Parsi Sev and more. Spend the day with family, exchanging goodwill and blessings, and embracing the spirit of renewal.

Janmashtami

Participate in temple activities or watch a ‘Dahi Handi’ event in your locality. Decorate your home with Krishna-themed items, and enjoy preparing and sharing festive sweets like kheer and makhan. Spend the evening singing devotional songs or narrating Krishna’s stories to children.

Ganesh Chaturthi

Welcome Lord Ganesha into your home by decorating a designated space with flowers and an idol of Ganesha. Perform daily prayers and offer sweets like modaks. Join public celebrations or participate in eco-friendly idol immersion ceremonies to conclude the festival responsibly. 

Jhulan Purnima

Celebrate Jhulan Purnima by adorning swings with flowers and placing idols of Radha and Krishna on them. Engage in devotional singing and storytelling sessions about their divine love. Temples and homes in regions like Odisha and West Bengal host special rituals and cultural programmes to mark this joyous occasion. 

Tendong Lho Rum Faat

Participate in Tendong Lho Rum Faat by joining community prayers and cultural performances organised by the Lepcha community in Sikkim. The festival includes traditional dances, songs, and rituals that pay homage to Mount Tendong, believed to have saved the Lepchas from a great deluge. It's a time to celebrate nature and ancestral heritage.

Ayyankali Jayanthi

Observe Ayyankali Jayanthi by attending seminars, cultural events, and educational programmes that highlight the social reforms initiated by Mahatma Ayyankali. Schools and institutions in Kerala often organise essay competitions and discussions to inspire the younger generation about his contributions to social justice and equality. 

Patriot’s Day

Commemorate Patriot’s Day in Manipur by participating in memorial services and floral tributes at sites like Bir Tikendrajit Park. Educational institutions may host lectures and exhibitions detailing the sacrifices of heroes like Bir Tikendrajit and Thangal General, fostering a sense of patriotism and historical awareness among students. 

De Jure Transfer Day

Celebrate De Jure Transfer Day in Puducherry by attending flag-hoisting ceremonies and cultural events that mark the union territory's official integration into India. Government buildings and public spaces often host exhibitions and performances reflecting Puducherry's unique blend of French and Indian heritage.

 

By incorporating these simple yet meaningful activities, you can make each holiday more memorable and enriching.

August is a fantastic time to travel in India, with destinations offering unique cultural events and vibrant festivities. Here are some of the best places to visit this month:

Domestic Destinations

Mathura & Vrindavan

Known as the birthplace of Lord Krishna, Mathura and Vrindavan host grand celebrations for Janmashtami. Devotees gather to sing devotional songs, perform dances, and re-enact episodes from Krishna's life. The Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple is the epicentre of the festivities, providing a spiritual and joyous experience. Visitors can immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere filled with devotion and energy.

 

Alleppey

August is the perfect time to visit Alleppey, as the Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race brings the backwaters to life. This thrilling event features teams rowing traditional snake boats in a spirited competition on Punnamda Lake. The festive atmosphere, with cheering crowds and cultural performances, makes it an unforgettable experience. Beyond the race, visitors can explore Alleppey’s serene backwaters on a houseboat, soak in the lush green surroundings, and savour authentic Kerala cuisine, making it an ideal destination for an August getaway.

 

Jaipur

Jaipur adds a royal touch to your vacation with historic locations you can visit like the City Palace, Hawa Mahal, and more. Places like the Amer Fort, Jantar Mantar, and Nahargarh Fort, each offer a glimpse into the grandeur of Rajasthan’s regal past. Stroll through the vibrant bazaars of Johari and Bapu markets, where traditional jewellery, textiles, and handicrafts await. Witness the city's rich heritage through cultural performances, folk music, and art exhibitions that bring its history to life. 

 

Pune

Pune offers a perfect blend of cultural vibrancy and historical charm, making it an ideal destination to explore in any season. Visitors can delve into the city’s rich history by visiting landmarks like the Aga Khan Palace, a symbol of India’s freedom struggle, and Shaniwar Wada, known for its Maratha heritage. Pune also hosts various cultural events, local fairs, and festivals throughout the year, adding a lively and festive atmosphere to the city. From exploring bustling markets to indulging in Maharashtrian cuisine, Pune promises an enriching and memorable experience.

International Destinations

Singapore

August in Singapore offers a vibrant mix of cultural festivities and shopping experiences. The city celebrates its National Day on August 9th with grand parades and fireworks. Additionally, the Singapore Night Festival illuminates the Bras Basah.Bugis district with art installations and performances. While the weather is warm and humid, averaging 26°C to 33°C, brief tropical showers provide respite. The cost of a trip to Singapore can be optimized by utilizing efficient public transport and enjoying affordable local cuisines at hawker centres. 

 

Switzerland

August is one of the most beautiful months to visit Switzerland, with warm summer weather and clear alpine views. You can explore charming towns like Lucerne and Zermatt, or enjoy scenic rail journeys like the Glacier Express. Outdoor lovers can go hiking, biking, or paddleboarding in the lakes. Swiss National Day on August 1st adds a festive charm. The cost of a trip to Switzerland can be managed by using Swiss Travel Passes and booking mid-range accommodations in advance. 

 

New Zealand

August marks the end of winter in New Zealand, presenting an excellent opportunity for winter sports enthusiasts. The South Island boasts premier ski resorts like Queenstown and Wanaka. Additionally, glacier hiking on Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers is popular during this time. The cost of a trip to New Zealand can be managed by considering RV travel and utilizing free campsites, as highlighted by travelers who have balanced expenses effectively.

 

South Africa

August is an ideal month to visit South Africa, offering clear skies and moderate temperatures. It's prime time for wildlife safaris, especially in Kruger National Park, where animals congregate around water sources. Additionally, the Western Cape witnesses the blooming of wildflowers, and whale watching is popular along the coast. Plan a trip to South Africa during this period to experience diverse natural spectacles with fewer tourists.

 

Greece

August in Greece is synonymous with vibrant festivals and beach escapades. While it's the peak tourist season, the country's numerous islands, like Santorini and Crete, offer picturesque views and cultural experiences. The warm Aegean waters are perfect for swimming, and local festivals provide insights into Greek traditions. The cost of a trip to Greece during this time can be higher due to demand, but early bookings and exploring lesser-known islands can offer savings.

In August 2025, you can enjoy the following long weekends:

9th August to 11th August

• Saturday, 9th August – Raksha Bandhan

• Sunday, 10th August – Weekend

• Monday, 11th August – Ayyankali Jayanthi 

13th August to 17th August

• Wednesday, 13th August – Patriot’s Day

• Thursday, 14th August – Take the day off

• Friday, 15th August – Independence Day / Parsi New Year  / Janmashtami (Smarta)

• Saturday, 16th August – Janmashtami / De Jure Transfer Day

• Sunday, 17th August – Weekend

27th August to 31st August

• Wednesday, 27th August – Ganesh Chaturthi

• Thursday, 28th August – Nuakhai

• Friday, 29th August – Take a day off

• Saturday, 30th August – Weekend

• Sunday, 31st August – Weekend

 

Knowing these holiday dates well in advance helps you plan your vacation itinerary for a family outing or a vacation with your friends. If you need funds to finance your trip, simply apply for a travel loan on Bajaj Markets.

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