Holidays in October 2025

October brings a refreshing change in weather and is packed with festivals and cultural events across India. Whether you're planning a short getaway or looking to celebrate traditional festivals with loved ones, it's helpful to know the public and regional holidays in advance. From national observances to local events, here's a breakdown of all the gazetted, restricted, regional, and observance holidays in October 2025, so you can plan your leaves and travel accordingly.

Here is a list of gazetted, restricted, and regional holidays in October 2025:

Here are the bank holidays during October 2025 as notified by the Reserve Bank of India:

In October 2025, you can enjoy the following gazetted holidays:

Some of the restricted holidays you can enjoy in October 2025 are listed below:

Let’s understand in detail some of the important festivities and occasions of October 2025:

Dussehra

Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, marks the triumph of good over evil in Indian mythology. Celebrated on the tenth day of the Hindu lunar month of Ashwin, it commemorates Lord Rama's victory over the demon king Ravana. The occasion symbolises the eradication of negativity. The festival also honours Goddess Durga's victory over Mahishasura. Festivities include Ramlila performances, Ravana burning, and vibrant processions. Communities gather to celebrate with joy, seeking blessings for prosperity and harmony.

Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti

Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti is a celebration of the birth of sage Valmiki, revered as the author of the Ramayana, one of India’s greatest epics. Observed on the full moon day in Ashwin, this day honours his contributions to Indian literature and spirituality. Devotees recite verses from the Ramayana, organise processions, and visit temples. The day inspires reflection on Valmiki's transformation from a highwayman to a saint, embodying the power of repentance and wisdom.

Dhanteras

Dhanteras is the first day of Diwali, observed in honour of Lord Dhanvantari, the god of health and Ayurveda. It is an auspicious occasion to buy gold, silver, and utensils, symbolising prosperity and good fortune. Homes are illuminated with diyas, and prayers are offered for wealth and well-being. This day sets the tone for the Diwali celebrations, bringing families together to welcome prosperity and good health.

Diwali

Diwali, the festival of lights, is one of India’s most celebrated festivals. It symbolises the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. It marks Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya after a 14-year exile and his victory over Ravana. Families decorate their homes with rangoli, diyas, and fairy lights. Laxmi Puja is performed for prosperity, and fireworks light up the night sky. Diwali also promotes community bonding through gifts, sweets, and feasts.

Halloween

Halloween, celebrated on 31st October, originated as a Celtic festival called Samhain. It marked the end of the harvest season and the belief that spirits roamed the earth. Today, it is a fun and festive occasion, especially in Western countries. People dress in costumes, carve pumpkins into jack-o'-lanterns, and participate in trick-or-treating. Halloween celebrates creativity, community, and a playful connection with folklore and supernatural tales.

Some traditional and unique ways to celebrate some of the most important festivities of the month are as follows:

Dussehra

Traditionally, Dussehra is celebrated with grand Ramlila performances and the burning of Ravana effigies to symbolise the victory of good over evil. People decorate their homes and offer prayers to Lord Rama or Goddess Durga. For a unique twist, organise a community event to discuss the values of the Ramayana or a workshop teaching kids how to create eco-friendly Ravana effigies. Hosting a local ‘good deeds drive’ can also embody the spirit of conquering negativity in daily life.

Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti

Traditionally, devotees visit temples, chant verses from the Ramayana, and take part in processions celebrating Valmiki’s life. Schools and communities organise lectures or plays to highlight his transformation from a highwayman to a revered sage. To celebrate uniquely, organise a poetry writing competition inspired by Valmiki’s teachings or a community event discussing how his life demonstrates the power of change and repentance. You could also start a book donation drive focusing on spreading spiritual and cultural knowledge.

Dhanteras

On Dhanteras, it is traditional to buy gold, silver, or household utensils to attract prosperity and good luck. People light diyas and perform aarti to Lord Dhanvantari for health and wealth. A unique way to celebrate could involve creating handmade earthen lamps with family and donating them to temples or local markets. Hosting a neighbourhood potluck with a focus on health-conscious recipes or donating utensils and essentials to underprivileged families can deepen the day’s meaning.

Diwali

Traditionally, Diwali involves cleaning and decorating homes with rangoli, lighting diyas, and performing Laxmi Puja. Families exchange gifts and sweets and enjoy fireworks displays. To celebrate differently, opt for natural decorations like flower garlands and organic colours for rangoli. Create a ‘gratitude tree’ where family members write and hang messages of thanks. Replace firecrackers with a community lantern release or a local feast to encourage eco-friendly celebrations and inclusivity.

Halloween

Halloween is traditionally celebrated with costumes, pumpkin carving, and trick-or-treating. Communities host spooky parties and haunted house tours. For a unique celebration, organise a ‘DIY costume challenge’ using upcycled materials. Host a storytelling night featuring ghost tales from around the world or a community bake sale with Halloween-themed treats. You could also turn it into a charitable event by collecting donations for local causes during trick-or-treat rounds.

Popular destinations to visit in India during October are as suggested below:

Andaman Islands

The Andaman Islands offer a mix of adventure and relaxation in October’s sunny weather. Must-visit spots include Radhanagar Beach for its pristine sands and Elephant Beach for snorkelling. Enjoy scuba diving at Havelock or Neil Island to explore vibrant coral reefs. History enthusiasts can visit the Cellular Jail in Port Blair, while sunset lovers will adore Chidiya Tapu. For a unique experience, try glass-bottom boat rides or explore Baratang’s limestone caves and Ross Island.

Rishikesh

October in Rishikesh brings cool weather perfect for both adventure and spirituality. Attend the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat or practice yoga at Parmarth Niketan Ashram. Adventure seekers can enjoy white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and trekking to Neer Garh waterfalls. The nearby Rajaji National Park offers wildlife safaris, while Vashishta Cave provides a peaceful retreat. Don’t miss camping by the riverside for a serene experience.

Kerala Backwaters

Kerala’s backwaters are stunning post-monsoon, with lush greenery and serene waters. Stay in a houseboat at Alleppey or Kumarakom to enjoy the slow pace of village life. Visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary for birdwatching or enjoy authentic Ayurvedic therapies. For a cultural touch, explore Kathakali performances or savour local cuisine like appam and stew. Add visits to Varkala Beach or Fort Kochi for coastal charm.

Darjeeling

October’s clear skies make Darjeeling perfect for scenic views and cultural experiences. Ride the toy train through tea gardens or visit Tiger Hill for a sunrise over Kanchenjunga. Explore the Japanese Peace Pagoda, Ghoom Monastery, and vibrant local markets. For adventure, trek to Sandakphu or enjoy a tea estate tour at Happy Valley. End your trip with local momos and the iconic Darjeeling tea.

London

October is a wonderful time to visit London, with autumn hues painting the parks and a crisp breeze perfect for city walks. Museums, West End shows, and fewer crowds enhance the experience. If you're planning for your trip cost to London from India, you'll find better deals on flights and hotels than in peak seasons.

Bangkok

Travelling to Bangkok in October offers a mix of light monsoon showers and pleasant weather. The city gears up for festive energy, delicious street food, and vibrant night markets. The trip cost to Bangkok from India remains budget-friendly, making it an ideal destination for those seeking culture, comfort, and great value.

Europe

Europe in October is a traveller’s dream. Autumn sweeps across the continent with golden foliage, off-season pricing, and cultural festivals. From Italy’s vineyards to Prague’s charm, there’s plenty to explore. The trip cost to Europe from India during this time is relatively lower, giving you more for your money across multiple countries.

Paris

October brings a romantic chill to Paris with fewer tourists, shorter queues at attractions, and picturesque autumn views. Café terraces, Seine river walks, and local events offer an authentic Parisian vibe. If you're planning for a trip to Paris from India, travelling this month offers both charm and cost-efficiency.

US

October is a scenic and eventful time to explore the US, with fall foliage, Halloween festivities, and cultural events in full swing. Whether it’s New York’s parks or California’s coast, there’s something for everyone. The US trip cost from India can vary, but deals are easier to find post-summer.

Indonesia

October is ideal for visiting Indonesia, especially Bali and Java, with dry weather and fewer tourists. Whether it’s temple tours, volcano treks, or relaxing on the beach, the experiences are diverse. The trip cost to Indonesia from India remains affordable, especially for travellers seeking a nature-filled yet economical getaway.

Here is the list of long weekends in October 2025 when you can plan for a relaxing vacation:

1st October to 7th October

• Wednesday, 1st October - Maha Navami

• Thursday, 2nd October - Dussehra / Gandhi Jayanti

• Friday, 3rd October - Take a day off

• Saturday, 4th October -  Weekend

• Sunday, 5th October - Weekend

• Monday,  6th October - Take a day off

• Tuesday, 7th October - Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti

10th October to 12th October

• Friday, 10th October - Karaka Chaturthi (Karva Chauth)

• Saturday, 11th October - Weekend

• Sunday,  12th October - Weekend

18th October to 20th October

• Saturday, 18th October - Dhanteras

• Sunday, 19th October - Weekend

• Monday, 20th October - Naraka Chaturdashi / Diwali (Deepavali)

31st October to 2nd November

• Friday, 31st October - Halloween

• Saturday, 1st November - Weekend

• Sunday, 2nd November - Weekend

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