All-in-one guide to the holiday calendar of November 2026 to plan trouble-free travels. This article acts as a comprehensive guide for the winter holiday season.
Last updated on: February 20, 2026
Witnessing November in India is close to experiencing a pause between seasons. This month boasts of some auspicious festivals and events that grab the attention of Indian citizens across different states. These widely-celebrated occasions are observed across cultures and diversities in India. From the festival of lights to the formation day celebration of Karnataka, the list of public holidays can fuel your festive preparations. Understand the complete list of November holidays in advance to plan a short trip or enjoy your time off.
Below is a concise list of the various November holidays in 2026:
Date |
Day |
Holiday Name |
Celebrated Across |
1 Nov |
Sunday |
Kut |
Manipur |
1 Nov |
Sunday |
Puducherry Liberation Day |
Puducherry |
1 Nov |
Sunday |
Haryana Day |
Haryana |
1 Nov |
Sunday |
Kannada Rajyotsava |
Karnataka |
7 Nov |
Saturday |
Wangala Festival |
Meghalaya |
8 Nov |
Sunday |
Kanakadasa Jayanti |
Karnataka |
8 Nov |
Sunday |
Diwali/Deepavali |
Nationwide (Gazetted) |
9 Nov |
Monday |
Govardhan Puja |
UP, Rajasthan, Haryana, Bihar, Maharashtra |
11 Nov |
Wednesday |
Bhai Dooj |
West Bengal, Odisha, Maharashtra, Gujarat, UP, Punjab |
15 Nov |
Sunday |
Chhath Puja |
Bihar, Jharkhand, UP |
23 Nov |
Sunday |
Seng Kut Snem |
Meghalaya |
24 Nov |
Tuesday |
Guru Nanak Jayanti |
National (except AP, Assam, Bihar, etc.) |
24 Nov |
Tuesday |
Karthika Purnima |
Odisha, Telangana |
25 Nov |
Wednesday |
Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s Martyrdom Day |
Punjab |
Here is the complete November holiday list for banks in 2026:
Date |
Day |
Holiday Name |
Celebrated In |
1 Nov |
Sunday |
Kut |
Manipur |
1 Nov |
Sunday |
Kannada Rajyotsava |
Karnataka |
1 Nov |
Sunday |
Puducherry Liberation Day |
Puducherry |
1 Nov |
Sunday |
Haryana Day |
Haryana |
8 Nov |
Sunday |
Diwali/Deepavali |
Nationwide |
8 Nov |
Sunday |
Kanakadasa Jayanti |
Karnataka |
14 Nov |
Saturday |
Second Saturday |
All States |
24 Nov |
Tuesday |
Guru Nanak Jayanti |
Most States |
28 Nov |
Saturday |
Fourth Saturday |
All States |
Gazetted holidays are mandatory holidays observed nationwide, helping you plan important events in advance. Here is the gazetted holiday in November 2026:
Date |
Day |
Name of Holiday |
Celebrated In |
8 Nov |
Sunday |
Diwali (Deepavali) |
Across India |
24 Nov |
Tuesday |
Guru Nanak Jayanti |
Across India |
Restricted holidays let you choose time off based on your customs or preferences. Central government employees can choose from these optional holidays. Here is the list of restricted Indian holidays in November 2026:
Date |
Day |
Holiday Name |
Celebrated In |
1 Nov |
Sunday |
Kut |
Manipur |
1 Nov |
Sunday |
Puducherry Liberation Day |
Puducherry |
1 Nov |
Sunday |
Haryana Day |
Haryana |
1 Nov |
Sunday |
Kannada Rajyotsava |
Karnataka |
7 Nov |
Saturday |
Wangala Festival |
Meghalaya |
9 Nov |
Monday |
Govardhan Puja |
Northern States |
11 Nov |
Wednesday |
Bhai Dooj |
Eastern/Western States |
15 Nov |
Sunday |
Chhath Puja |
Bihar, UP, Jharkhand |
23 Nov |
Sunday |
Seng Kut Snem |
Meghalaya |
24 Nov |
Tuesday |
Karthika Purnima |
Odisha, Telangana |
25 Nov |
Wednesday |
Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s Martyrdom Day |
Punjab |
Note: Dates shift yearly due to the lunar calendar. Bank holidays include 2nd/4th Saturdays nationwide. Verify with RBI state-wise holiday matrix for local branches.
Key facts about major holidays explain their background and customs:
Kut (1 November)
Kuki-Chin-Mizo harvest festival in Manipur features traditional dances, feasts, and tribal unity celebrations.
Haryana Day (1 November)
Celebrates state formation via folk music, sports, and community fairs.
Puducherry Liberation Day (1 November)
Marks freedom from French rule with flag hoisting and historic quarter parades.
Kannada Rajyotsava (1 November)
Karnataka marks state formation with flag hoisting, cultural shows, and Kannada pride events.
Wangala Festival (7 November)
Meghalaya's Garo harvest fest with 100-drum dances and tribal rituals.
Diwali (Deepavali) (8 November)
The festival of lights marks Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya with diyas, sweets, firecrackers, and Lakshmi Puja symbolizing prosperity and good over evil.
Govardhan Puja (9 November)
This festival commemorates Lord Krishna lifting Govardhan Hill to protect villagers, celebrated with annakut feasts and cow worship in northern states.
Bhai Dooj (11 November)
Sisters apply tilak on brothers' foreheads and pray for their long life, strengthening sibling bonds through meals and token gifts across eastern and northern India.
Chhath Puja (15 November)
Devotees offer prayers to Sun God with strict fasting, holy dips, and thekua offerings along riverbanks, primarily observed in Bihar, eastern UP, and Jharkhand.
Seng Kut Snem (23 November)
Khasi identity festival in Meghalaya with ceremonies and folk events.
Guru Nanak Jayanti (24 November)
Sikh communities celebrate Guru Nanak's birth with Akhand Path recitations, nagar kirtans, and langar meals emphasizing equality and selfless service.
Karthika Purnima (24 November)
Devotees take holy dips in sacred rivers and perform Shiva puja on this full moon day, marking the triumph of good over evil in Odisha and Telangana.
Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s Martyrdom Day (25 November)
This day commemorates the sacrifice of the ninth Sikh Guru who stood for religious freedom.
Here are simple ways to join each November 2026 celebration and connect with their traditions:
Kut
Join the lively Kut celebrations in Manipur by watching traditional dances and wearing cultural attire. Share festive meals with locals and enjoy their unique music and rituals. The event is a joyful way to experience the unity of the Kuki-Chin-Mizo communities.
Puducherry Liberation Day
Attend official flag hoisting ceremonies that mark Puducherry’s freedom from French colonial rule. Walk through historic French quarters to feel the legacy of its past. Participate in parades and local events that showcase its diverse heritage.
Haryana Day
Take part in celebrations highlighting Haryana’s statehood through folk music, exhibitions, and sports events. Watch school and community parades with patriotic themes across cities. Many districts also host fairs and local talent showcases on this day.
Kannada Rajyotsava
Attend Karnataka flag hoisting and watch cultural parades. Enjoy local Kannada food stalls and folk dance performances held across cities.
Diwali/Deepavali
Light diyas, make rangoli, and share sweets with neighbors. Visit temples for Lakshmi Puja and watch community firework displays after dark.
Govardhan Puja
Prepare annakut feast with 56+ dishes in UP/Rajasthan homes. Visit temples to offer prayers and see cow decoration ceremonies.
Bhai Dooj
Sisters welcome brothers with tilak and sweets in West Bengal/Gujarat. Exchange gifts and share festive meals to strengthen family bonds.
Chhath Puja
Be a part of Bihar/UP riverbank gatherings for sunrise prayers. Help prepare thekua offerings and witness 36-hour fasting rituals.
Guru Nanak Jayanti
Walk in Punjab nagar kirtan processions and serve langar meals. Visit gurdwaras for kirtan sessions and seva activities.
Kanakadasa Jayanti
Attend local bhajan events and spiritual talks that celebrate Kanakadasa’s teachings in Karnataka. Visit places linked to his life and poetic legacy. Cultural programmes often include plays, music, and exhibitions on his contributions to society.
Lhabab Duchen
Celebrate Buddha’s return to Earth by visiting monasteries for prayers and candle lighting. Observe rituals with local monks and devotees in Sikkim. This peaceful day is ideal for reflection and learning about Buddhist beliefs.
Karthika Purnima
Take evening holy dips at Odisha/Telangana river ghats. Light lamps at Shiva temples and join all-night bhajan sessions.
Seng Kut Snem
Participate in Seng Kut Snem festivities honouring Khasi values and identity in Meghalaya. Join the community in traditional ceremonies, speeches, and folk events. The day promotes unity, cultural pride, and spiritual strength.
Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s Martyrdom Day
Visit Gurudwaras to hear stories of Guru Tegh Bahadur’s sacrifice for religious freedom. Light candles and attend commemorative gatherings across Punjab and other states. Many people also take time to reflect on human rights and tolerance.
November 2026 holidays coincide with pleasant weather across India, making it ideal for travel. Plan trips to these holiday hotspots and consider a travel loan from Bajaj Markets for seamless bookings.
Karnataka (Kannada Rajyotsava)
Cities like Bengaluru and Mysore in Karnataka are worth a visit in November 2026. Bengaluru witnesses flag hoisting at Vidhana Soudha along with cultural fests through the UB city area. Mysore also offers palace illuminations and Rajyotsava processions.
Puducherry
Walk along quiet beaches and enjoy the mix of French and Indian architecture. In November, the pleasant weather and affordable cost of a trip to Puducherry make it perfect for outdoor cafés and coastal walks. Explore old churches, museums, and scenic streets with ease.
Manipur
Visit Manipur to enjoy the Kut festival with colourful dances and cultural events. The landscapes are filled with green hills, clear skies, and peaceful views. It's a perfect spot for both celebration and calm.
Meghalaya
Experience the Wangala Festival with drums, dances, and local traditions. The cool weather makes it ideal for trekking through caves and waterfalls. Enjoy the charm of quiet villages and green hills while planning your journey with a clear idea of the Meghalaya trip cost.
Sikkim
Celebrate Lhabab Duchen at peaceful monasteries surrounded by mountains. November is clear and crisp, offering great views of the Himalayas. If you're planning to visit Sikkim, enjoy short hikes, lakes, and cultural spots in complete comfort.
Varanasi
Visit Varanasi in November to witness Dev Deepawali, when thousands of lamps light up the Ganges ghats. Enjoy spiritual rituals, boat rides, and peaceful evenings. The cool weather and festive glow make it an unforgettable cultural trip, and knowing the cost of a trip to Varanasi helps you plan better.
Vietnam
A trip to Vietnam in November is great for a calm and colourful holiday. The weather is cool in the north and warm in the south. You can enjoy walks in Hanoi, boat rides in Ha Long Bay, or coffee in Ho Chi Minh City. The streets of Hoi An look lovely with lanterns and lights. Fewer tourists and better prices make it a good time to visit.
Japan
November is one of the best months for a trip to Japan. The trees turn bright red and gold, making the country look beautiful. You can walk through gardens in Kyoto or enjoy hot food in Tokyo. The weather is cool but not too cold. It’s a peaceful time with music, festivals, and fewer crowds.
Thailand
A trip to Thailand in November means sunny skies and soft sea breezes. It’s the start of the cool season, perfect for visiting beaches like Krabi or Koh Samui. You can explore temples, ride tuk-tuks, or enjoy street food. Island tours and water sports are also popular now. It’s a fun and affordable trip for all.
Maldives
The Maldives in November is perfect for a quiet and sunny break. You get blue water, white beaches, and warm days with no heavy rain. Many resorts offer great deals before the busy season starts. You can snorkel, dive, or relax by the sea. A trip to the Maldives gives you peace, comfort, and natural beauty.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
November is a great time for a trip to Dubai, with cooler weather and clear skies. Visit the desert, shop at malls, or see tall buildings like the Burj Khalifa. You can relax at the beach or enjoy local markets and food. The city also hosts many shows and events this month. It’s a good mix of fun, culture, and comfort.
November 2026 offers great travel breaks combining holidays, Sundays, and second/fourth Saturdays. Plan vacations during these extended weekends.
Sunday, 1st November – Kut, Kannada Rajyotsava, Haryana Day, Puducherry Liberation Day
Monday, 2nd November – Casual Leave
Saturday, 7th November – Wangala Festival
Sunday, 8th November – Diwali + Kanakadasa Jayanti + Second Saturday
Take 2nd-6th November off for a 6-day trip to Manipur, Karnataka, or Meghalaya.
Saturday, 14th November – Second Saturday
Sunday, 15th November – Chhath Puja
Monday, 16th November – Casual Leave
Perfect for Bihar river ghats or quick northern escapes.
Saturday, 22nd November – Fourth Saturday
Sunday, 23rd November – Seng Kut Snem
Tuesday, 24th November – Guru Nanak Jayanti + Karthika Purnima
Wednesday, 25th November – Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s Martyrdom Day
Take Monday 23rd off for a full 4-day Punjab-Odisha circuit.
Before you finalise your travel plans, make sure your budget is in place. Instead of dipping into your savings, consider funding your holiday with a personal loan. Bajaj Markets offers travel loans with easy repayment options, so you can enjoy your trip without financial stress.
Reviewer
November 2026 brings Diwali on November 8, Guru Nanak Jayanti on November 24, plus state events like Kut, Kannada Rajyotsava, and Chhath Puja on November 15.
Nine bank holidays occur: four on November 1 (state-specific), Diwali on November 8, Second Saturday on November 14, Guru Nanak Jayanti on November 24, and Fourth Saturday on November 28.
Restricted holidays include Kut, Haryana Day, Wangala Festival, Govardhan Puja, Bhai Dooj, Chhath Puja, Seng Kut Snem, Karthika Purnima, and Guru Tegh Bahadur Martyrdom Day.
Fourteen total holidays mix national gazetted days, state observances, and bank weekends across India's diverse regions.
Key festivals feature Diwali (November 8), Chhath Puja (November 15), Guru Nanak Jayanti and Karthika Purnima (November 24), plus regional Kut and Wangala.
Yes, Diwali and Guru Nanak Jayanti stand as major nationwide holidays, joined by vibrant regional celebrations like Chhath Puja and multiple state foundation days.
Host eco-friendly diya lighting with seed-embedded rangoli, join community potlucks featuring regional sweets, or volunteer for lantern-making workshops in historic neighborhoods.