Holidays in July 2026

As per the July list of holidays, there are no central government gazetted holidays in July 2026.

Now that you know the dates of significant holidays in July, here is more about the importance of these festivals: 

Guru Purnima

Guru Purnima is a festival of the Hindu Buddhists, and Jains that is dedicated to the spiritual as well as the academic teachers. It is celebrated during the full moon day in the month of Ashadha and it is the day that Guru Vyasa, the author of the Mahabharata, is remembered. Devotees pay homage to the teachers through prayers, scripture reading, and by providing assistance to the community. Moreover, it is a day to seek the blessings and thanksgiving of the mentors for the wisdom and guidance received.

Harela

Harela is a festival celebrated in Uttarakhand. It signifies and marks the end of the dry season and the beginning of the monsoon and sowing season. This agricultural festival is a celebration of one of the signs of the gods' blessings in the form of Nature's harmony and prosperity. Families engage in rituals, plantations, and cooking of traditional food. Harela is known as the occasion to promote conservation of the environment.

Death Anniversary of U Tirot Sing

U Tirot Sing, a legendary Khasi leader, is remembered for his resistance against British colonial rule in Meghalaya. His death anniversary is observed to honour his bravery and patriotism. Tributes are paid through cultural programs, speeches, and ceremonies that highlight his role in preserving Khasi identity and autonomy.

Mizo Hmeichhe Insuihkhawm Pawl Day (MHIP Day)

MJIP Day, taken place on 6 July, is a day of the celebration of the establishment of the apex women’s organisation in Mizoram Mizo Hmeichhe Insuihkhawm Pawl. It is a day when the major role of women being in society is recognised as well as the movement towards gender equality, empowerment, and community welfare promoted. Events like awareness drives, cultural programmes, and discussions are held discussing women’s rights and contributions. 

Martyr’s Day

India celebrates Martyr’s Day on different days at different places. 13 July is the day in Jammu and Kashmir to pay tribute to the martyrs of the 1931 uprising against Dogra rule. They are honored by ceremonies, wreath-laying and public speeches recognizing their sacrifice, and at the same time reiterating the justice and democracy values. 

Bhanu Jayanti

Bhanu Jayanti, celebrated on 13 July, marks the birth anniversary of Nepali poet Bhanubhakta Acharya. Revered for translating the Ramayana into Nepali, he is hailed as the pioneer of Nepali literature. Schools, cultural organisations, and literary bodies organise recitations and tributes in his memory, especially in Sikkim and Darjeeling.

Martyrdom Day of Shaheed Udham Singh

On 31 July, India pays tribute to Shaheed Udham Singh, who avenged the Jallianwala Bagh massacre by assassinating General O'Dwyer. Observed especially in Punjab, the day honours his sacrifice through memorial services, patriotic events, and discussions on India’s freedom struggle and the legacy of revolutionary heroes.

Ratha Yatra

Known as the Festival of Chariots, this grand event involves the journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra to the Gundicha Temple. While famous in Puri, Odisha, it is celebrated with massive processions where devotees pull towering, decorated chariots.

Drukpa Tshechi

Drukpa Tshechi, a prestigious festival of Buddhists, signifies the Lord Buddha’s first sermon at Sarnath. Prayers and spiritual activities are the main components of the day and it is mostly celebrated in the regions like Sikkim that are close to the Himalayas and are thus sometimes referred to as the heart of the Himalayas.

Kharchi Puja

One of Tripura’s most iconic festivals, Kharchi Puja involves the worship of the fourteen deities that protect the land. The rituals are performed to cleanse the earth and are accompanied by vibrant cultural fairs.

Here are some ways in which you can make your celebrations this July extra special: 

Guru Purnima

Pay your respect to your teachers by visiting their places and presenting them with small gifts like flowers or sweets. Take part in the prayer ceremonies or satsangs in the temples or spiritual centers devoted to Guru Vyasa. Recite scriptures, engage in community service, or attend special lectures focused on the importance of mentorship in life are all good ways for you to spend the day. This day is an opportunity for you to reflect on the guidance you have received and to share your knowledge with others. 

Mizo Hmeichhe Insuihkhawm Pawl Day (MHIP Day)

Celebrate MHIP Day by attending women-led community gatherings, awareness rallies, and cultural events in Mizoram. Schools and local bodies often hold discussions on gender rights and women’s welfare. If you're outside the state, you can still engage by supporting women-centric causes or learning about the achievements of Mizo women leaders.

Martyr’s Day

Participate in Martyr's Day remembrance activities from local to state level. Particularly, when in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, be part of the silence, enjoy the patriotic songs, or narrate the stories of India's freedom fighters. Schools and other institutions often hold talks and exhibit items as a way of paying tribute to those, who have given their lives, for righteousness and equality.

Bhanu Jayanti

On Bhanu Jayanti, participate in poetry recitations and cultural programmes organised in Sikkim, Darjeeling, or Nepali communities elsewhere. Visit local libraries or join online forums to read the Nepali Ramayana by Bhanubhakta Acharya. You could also encourage children to explore Nepali literature and heritage through storytelling sessions and activities.

Drukpa Tshechi

Celebrate Drukpa Tshechi by visiting Buddhist monasteries for teachings and rituals, mainly in Sikkim or Ladakh. The viewing of the heralding spiritual victory over negative forces through the cham (masked) dances is also an important part of the celebration. If it’s not possible for you to visit any monastery, then tune online into Dharma discourses or read about the Buddha's first sermon to deepen your spiritual understanding.

Martyrdom Day of Shaheed Udham Singh

You can observe the day by watching documentaries or reading about him, particularly his part in avenging the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. Tribute events might take place in schools and community centers. You can also go to local memorials or partake in online discussions showcasing his bravery and India's struggle for independence.

Ratha Yatra

If you aren't in Puri, you can celebrate by preparing a small chariot at home and placing idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra inside for a mini-procession. Prepare Poda Pitha (a traditional rice cake) and share it with your neighbors as Prasad.

Guru Hargobind Ji’s Birthday

You could visit a Gurdwara to participate in special prayer assemblies and listen to Gurbani. You can also volunteer for Langar Seva (community kitchen) or join religious processions (Nagar Kirtans) that showcase Sikh martial arts and devotional music.

Harela

Mark this "Day of Green" by planting a sapling in your garden or a local community space. In Uttarakhand, families sow five or seven types of seeds in small baskets ten days prior; you can mimic this tradition to celebrate the arrival of the monsoon and nature's bounty.

Kharchi Puja

Tripura's unique customs where fourteen gods are worshipped. During this festival, the focus on "cleansing" rituals at home or visiting a local temple to pray for the well-being and prosperity of your family is a way to celebrate the festival.

U Tirot Sing Day

Commemorate the Khasi hero by reading about his heroic deeds against the colonial power. If you happen to be in Meghalaya, be a part of the: floral tribute ceremonies. These events urge us to reflect on values of freedom and indigenous heritage.

You can also celebrate by planning a big family trip or a pilgrimage during these festivities. In fact, a quick personal loan can help bridge any gaps in your travel budget. Do not forget to check out the personal loan interest rate before you apply for one.

Here are some places which you can visit during these holidays on July calendar:

Domestic Destinations

• Tamil Nadu

Valparai, nested in Western Ghats, is a tranquil escape in July as the monsoon adds to its already lush tea and coffee plantations season. The temperature is between 21°C and 26°C, ideal for trekking and visiting the waterfalls. As the rain pulls down the curtains on the hot summer days and brings the cool winter days, it is a good time for nature lovers.

Visit the Athirappalli Falls (Kerala) and Aliyar Dam, which are  perfect during this period. Explore the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary that shelters various kinds of trees and animals, including the endangered Lion-tailed Macaque. Take scenic drives through the misty tea estates and be part of the peaceful splendor of Grass Hills.

• Sikkim

Pelling in July offers a unique experience as the monsoon breathes life into its landscapes, with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 19°C. The rain enhances the beauty of its waterfalls and provides a mystical ambience with mist-covered mountains.

Visit the magnificent Kanchenjunga Waterfalls, which are in full flow during July. Explore the historic Pemayangtse Monastery or trek to the Sanga Choeling Monastery for panoramic views. For history enthusiasts, the Rabdentse Ruins, the remains of the second capital of the former Kingdom of Sikkim, are a must-visit.

• Meghalaya

July is a culturally vibrant time in Meghalaya as the state celebrates Behdienkhlam. It is one of the major festivals celebrated by the Pnar tribe in the Jaintia Hills of the state. This unique monsoon festival involves colourful processions and rituals aimed at driving away evil spirits and ensuring a bountiful harvest. The monsoon adds to the charm, with lush greenery and gushing waterfalls throughout the state.

Witness the Behdienkhlam Festival in Jowai, where beautifully crafted rath-like structures are immersed in water amid vibrant celebrations. Explore the breathtaking Nohkalikai and Dainthlen Falls, which are in full glory. Trek to the living root bridges, including the iconic Double Decker Root Bridge in Nongriat, or take a scenic boat ride in Dawki on the Umngot River.

• Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand celebrates the Harela Festival in July, marking the onset of the monsoon and the sowing of new crops. This festival is deeply rooted in the region's agricultural traditions, with rituals celebrating nature and promoting environmental awareness. The monsoon rejuvenates the lush landscapes, making it a picturesque time to visit.

Participate in Harela festivities in Kumaon, where locals plant saplings and perform cultural rituals. Visit Jim Corbett National Park, which remains open during the monsoon for its buffer zones, offering unique wildlife experiences. Explore the serene Nainital or trek to Valley of Flowers, which begins to bloom in July, showcasing a vibrant array of flora.

With several holidays falling on Mondays and Fridays, holidays in July 2026 offer great opportunities for short breaks. Here is how you can plan your long weekends:

July 4th to July 6th 

• Saturday, 4th July: Weekend

• Sunday, 5th July: Weekend

• Monday, 6th July: MHIP Day (Public Holiday in Mizoram)
   

July 11th to July 13th 

• Saturday, 11th July: Second Saturday (Bank Holiday)

• Sunday, 12th July: Weekend

• Monday, 13th July: Bhanu Jayanti / Martyr’s Day (Public Holiday)
   

July 16th to July 19th 

• Thursday, 16th July: Ratha Yatra / Harela

• Friday, 17th July: Death Anniversary of U Tirot Sing (Take a leave if not in Meghalaya)

• Saturday, 18th July: Drukpa Tshechi / Weekend

• Sunday, 19th July: Weekend
   

July 31st to August 2nd

• Friday, 31st July: Martyrdom Day of Shaheed Udham Singh

• Saturday, 1st August: Weekend

• Sunday, 2nd August: Weekend
   

Keeping note of all these dates, you can plan your holidays easily and apply for a day off from work well in advance. 

However, if you need funds for the same, you can apply for a travel loan on Bajaj Markets. With affordable loan options and a quick application process, getting loans is hassle-free.