Holidays in May 2026

Here is a handy table that highlights all the gazetted, regional, and restricted holidays in May 2026 to help you plan better:

Here is a comprehensive list of bank holidays in May 2026, based on the official RBI holiday calendar, to help you plan banking activities in advance:

Please note that some holidays, such as Buddha Purnima, are observed on different dates in various states due to regional calendars.

Provided below is a list of public holidays you can get  in May:

Here is a brief overview of the key public holidays in May 2026 to help you understand their significance and plan your schedule accordingly:

Maharashtra Day

Maharashtra Day marks the formation of the state on 1 May 1960 following the reorganisation of the Bombay State. The day is observed with official ceremonies, parades, and cultural programmes across Maharashtra, especially in Mumbai.

Gujarat Day

Gujarat Day commemorates the creation of Gujarat as a separate state on 1 May 1960. Celebrations include folk performances, exhibitions, and events that highlight the state’s language, culture, and heritage.

May Day / International Workers’ Day

May Day honours the contributions and rights of workers across industries and sectors. In India, it is observed with awareness programmes, union meetings, and discussions on labour welfare and fair working conditions.

Buddha Purnima / Vesak

Buddha Purnima marks the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Gautama Buddha. Devotees visit temples, offer prayers, and practise acts of kindness and charity to reflect Buddhist teachings.

Guru Rabindranath Jayanti

This day celebrates the birth anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore, the Nobel Prize–winning poet and philosopher. Cultural programmes featuring poetry, music, and art are held, especially in West Bengal and Tripura.

Sikkim State Day

Sikkim State Day marks the state’s accession to the Indian Union in 1975. The occasion is celebrated with parades, cultural shows, and official events highlighting Sikkim’s history and identity.

Kazi Nazrul Islam Jayanti

Kazi Nazrul Islam Jayanti honours the birth of the revolutionary poet and social reformer known as the ‘Rebel Poet’. Literary events and musical performances celebrate his writings on freedom, equality, and justice.

Id-ul-Zuha (Bakrid)

Id-ul-Zuha commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion and willingness to sacrifice in obedience to God. The festival is observed with special prayers, charity, and sharing meals with family and the needy.

Maharana Pratap Jayanti

Maharana Pratap Jayanti honours the birth anniversary of the Rajput king remembered for his courage and resistance against Mughal rule. Tributes, processions, and cultural events celebrate his legacy of bravery and independence.

Sri Guru Arjun Dev Ji’s Martyrdom Day

This day commemorates the sacrifice of the fifth Sikh Guru, who stood firm for truth and religious freedom. Sikhs observe the day with prayers, kirtans, and community service in Gurudwaras.

Planning a holiday in May? Here are some simple yet meaningful ways to enjoy the festivities and public events in May:

Maharashtra Day

Maharashtra Day marks the formation of the state on 1 May 1960 after the reorganisation of the Bombay State. The day reflects Maharashtra’s political history, cultural pride, and linguistic identity. Official ceremonies, parades, and cultural programmes take place across the state, especially in Mumbai.

Gujarat Day

Gujarat Day commemorates the creation of Gujarat as a separate state on 1 May 1960. It celebrates the state’s rich heritage, entrepreneurial spirit, and vibrant traditions. Folk dances, exhibitions, and public events are organised across cities and towns.

May Day / International Workers’ Day

May Day honours the contributions and rights of workers across industries worldwide. The day highlights the importance of fair wages, safe working conditions, and labour welfare. In India, it is observed through awareness programmes, union meetings, and public discussions.

Buddha Purnima / Vesak

Buddha Purnima marks the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Gautama Buddha. It is the most sacred day in Buddhism and symbolises peace, compassion, and wisdom. Devotees visit temples, offer prayers, and practise charity to reflect Buddhist values.

Guru Rabindranath Jayanti

This day celebrates the birth anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore, the Nobel Prize–winning poet and philosopher. He made lasting contributions to literature, music, and education in India and beyond. Cultural events featuring poetry, music, and drama are held, especially in eastern India.

Sikkim State Day

Sikkim State Day marks the state’s accession to the Indian Union in 1975. The occasion reflects Sikkim’s journey into democratic governance and national integration. Celebrations include parades, cultural shows, and official programmes across the state.

Kazi Nazrul Islam Jayanti

Kazi Nazrul Islam Jayanti honours the birth of the revolutionary poet known for his writings on freedom and equality. His work challenged oppression, religious divisions, and social injustice. Literary events and musical performances celebrate his powerful legacy.

Id-ul-Zuha (Bakrid)

Id-ul-Zuha commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion and willingness to sacrifice in obedience to God. The festival emphasises faith, compassion, and charity. It is observed with prayers, sharing food, and helping those in need.

Maharana Pratap Jayanti

Maharana Pratap Jayanti honours the birth anniversary of the Rajput ruler renowned for his courage and resistance. He remains a symbol of independence, bravery, and honour in Indian history. Processions and tributes celebrate his legacy across several northern states.

Sri Guru Arjun Dev Ji’s Martyrdom Day

This day commemorates the sacrifice of the fifth Sikh Guru, who upheld truth and religious freedom. His martyrdom stands as a powerful message of tolerance and justice. Sikhs observe the day with prayers, kirtans, and community service.

If you're planning a break during the May holidays, here are some destinations that offer a delightful mix of cultural festivities, scenic beauty, and pleasant weather:

Sikkim

Mid-May is a special time in Sikkim as the state celebrates its Statehood Day on 16th May with parades, folk performances, and cultural events in Gangtok. The weather remains cool and comfortable, ideal for visiting Tsomgo Lake, Yumthang Valley, and Khangchendzonga National Park. You can also explore serene Buddhist monasteries or enjoy short treks surrounded by rhododendron blooms.

Uttarakhand

Nainital offers the perfect summer escape in May, with clear skies and mild temperatures. Take a peaceful boat ride on Naini Lake, explore viewpoints like Snow View and Tiffin Top, or walk down the lively Mall Road. It's also a great time for soft treks to Naina Peak or nearby forests bursting with spring colours.

Rajasthan

Mount Abu stands out as Rajasthan’s only hill station and a cool retreat from the desert heat. In May, the Mount Abu Summer Festival adds music, dance, and boat races to the mix. Don’t miss the stunning Dilwara Temples or the sunset from Honeymoon Point for a blend of culture and calm.

West Bengal

If you're a fan of literature and heritage, head to Kolkata for Guru Rabindranath Jayanti on 8th May. The city hosts cultural programmes, poetry readings, and Rabindra Sangeet performances. Beyond the celebrations, explore colonial architecture, savour Bengali sweets, or take a tram ride through the city’s historic lanes.

Himachal Pradesh

Shimla and Manali are especially inviting in May, with their cool mountain air and blooming valleys. You can enjoy scenic drives, local fairs, and adventure sports like paragliding or river rafting. The pleasant weather also makes it a good time to explore apple orchards, temples, and cafés with views.

Meghalaya

For a more offbeat holiday, consider Shillong in Meghalaya. May brings light showers that enhance the charm of its waterfalls and lakes. Visit Umiam Lake, trek to Laitlum Canyons, or just relax in the fresh mountain breeze amid pine forests and local music scenes.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands

For a tropical getaway, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands offer pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich marine life. May is a great time for water sports like snorkelling and scuba diving, especially around Havelock Island. Explore historical sites like the Cellular Jail or unwind on the serene beaches of Neil Island.

Coorg, Karnataka

Known as the 'Scotland of India', Coorg boasts lush coffee plantations, misty hills, and a cool climate. May is ideal for nature walks, visiting waterfalls like Abbey Falls, and exploring the region's rich Kodava culture. Don't miss the aromatic coffee and local delicacies.

Munnar, Kerala

Munnar's rolling tea gardens, pleasant weather, and serene landscapes make it a perfect May retreat. Visit the Tea Museum, enjoy panoramic views from Top Station, and explore Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. The cool climate is a respite from the summer heat elsewhere.

Ladakh

For adventure enthusiasts, Ladakh in May offers breathtaking landscapes and thrilling activities like trekking, mountain biking, and river rafting. The snow begins to melt, revealing the region's stark beauty. Visit monasteries like Hemis and Thiksey and experience the unique culture of this high-altitude desert.

Before planning a long weekend getaway, it is wise to review the May 2026 holiday list and organise your finances early. With smart planning and one optional leave, you can easily turn regular weekends into refreshing short breaks. Here is a quick look at the long weekends you can enjoy in May 2026:
 

1st May to 3rd May (Friday to Sunday)

• 1st May (Friday): May Day / International Workers’ Day, Maharashtra Day

• 2nd May (Saturday): Weekend

• 3rd May (Sunday): Weekend
   

9th May to 11th May (Saturday to Monday)

• 9th May (Saturday): Weekend

• 10th May (Sunday): Weekend

• 11th May (Monday): Buddha Purnima (Public Holiday in many states)
   

15th May to 17th May (Friday to Sunday)

• 15th May (Friday): Sikkim State Day (Observed in Sikkim)

• 16th May (Saturday): Weekend

• 17th May (Sunday): Weekend
   

Before finalising your travel plans, make sure your finances are in order. Instead of dipping into your savings, you may consider a personal loan from lenders on Bajaj Markets, which offers flexible repayment options to help you manage travel expenses comfortably.