Holidays in September 2026

Here are some details about the list of holidays in September:

4th September – Janmashtami

Janmashtami marks the birth of Lord Krishna, one of the most beloved deities in Hinduism, symbolising compassion, wisdom, and the triumph of good over evil. Celebrated with great devotion across India, the festival includes midnight prayers, devotional singing, dramatic enactments of Krishna’s life, and the popular Dahi Handi tradition. Homes and temples are beautifully decorated, and devotees observe fasts, offering sweets and butter-based delicacies to honour Krishna.

14th September – Ganesh Chaturthi

Ganesh Chaturthi celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the deity of wisdom and prosperity. The festival is especially vibrant in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Goa, and parts of South India. Elaborate idols are installed in homes and public pandals, accompanied by prayers, cultural performances, and community gatherings. The celebration concludes with Visarjan, where idols are immersed in water, symbolising Ganesha’s return to his celestial abode.

Here are some traditional and unique ways to celebrate various festivals in September 2026:

Janmashtami

You can celebrate Janmashtami by observing a day-long fast, decorating your home with flowers and lights, and preparing traditional sweets like makhan mishri and panjiri. Many people participate in midnight prayers and sing devotional songs to mark Lord Krishna’s birth. If available in your city, visiting local temples or attending community events such as Dahi Handi celebrations adds to the festive spirit and sense of togetherness.

Ganesh Chaturthi

Ganesh Chaturthi can be celebrated by bringing home a Ganesha idol or setting up a small symbolic altar for prayers. Daily aarti, offerings of modak and sweets, and family gatherings form the heart of the celebration. Participating in neighbourhood pandals, cultural programs, and processions enhances the experience. On the final day, take part in an eco-friendly visarjan to conclude the festival with respect for nature.

September is a great month to explore India’s rich cultural and natural diversity. Here’s a simple guide to some top destinations during this time.

Domestic Destinations

West Bengal

In West Bengal, September usually marks the start of Durga Puja preparations. Visitors can visit Kumartuli in Kolkata, where artisans craft various idols of the deities. They can also see innovative pandals (decorative worship spaces) being built. 

Markets like New Market and Bara Bazar are full of energy, offering Bengali sweets like rasgulla and sandesh. Landmarks such as the Victoria Memorial and Howrah Bridge also showcase the city’s history and culture. 

Ziro Valley

Ziro Valley in Arunachal Pradesh is ideal in September, especially during the Ziro Music Festival. This outdoor event features indie music performances surrounded by lush fields and hills. 

Visitors can also explore the traditions of the Apatani tribe, known for sustainable farming and unique customs. Ziro offers trekking trails, wildlife sanctuaries like Talley Valley, and stunning natural views.

Varanasi

In Uttar Pradesh, Varanasi is a peaceful destination during September as the post-monsoon weather improves. When planning your visit, considering the cost of trip to Varanasi is important. The Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is a highlight, featuring rituals performed on chants and bells.

A boat ride on the Ganges at sunrise provides a serene experience. The city’s narrow lanes reveal temples, silk workshops, and eateries serving kachori and Banarasi paan. Nearby, Sarnath adds a historical touch as the site of Buddha’s first sermon.

International Destinations

Italy

September is a perfect time to explore Italy—summer crowds thin out, and the weather is warm and inviting. From vineyard tours to historic sites in Rome and Florence, the country dazzles with culture. The cost of a trip to Italy is often more manageable this month, with shoulder-season discounts on travel and stay.

Iceland

September in Iceland offers a magical blend of autumn colours and early glimpses of the Northern Lights. It's a great time for scenic drives, geothermal spas, and waterfall hikes. 

As peak summer ends, planning a trip to Iceland becomes more economical, making it an attractive option for adventure and nature lovers.

Nepal

Nepal welcomes travellers in September with clear skies, lush greenery, and ideal trekking conditions. Whether you're hiking the Annapurna Circuit or visiting Kathmandu's temples, the post-monsoon freshness enhances the experience.

Planning a trip to Nepal is relatively cheaper than other destinations, making it perfect for budget-conscious travellers seeking spiritual or outdoor journeys.

Sri Lanka

With pleasant weather in most regions, September is great for discovering Sri Lanka’s beaches, hill stations, and heritage sites. Wildlife safaris, tea plantations, and coastal retreats await. 

The trip cost to Sri Lanka remains budget-friendly, offering excellent value for travellers looking for a diverse and tropical escape close to home.

Greece

Greece in September offers warm seas, quiet ruins, and relaxed island life without the summer rush. Santorini, Athens, and Crete showcase the best of Mediterranean beauty.

Planning a trip to Greece from India during this month is more reasonable, letting you enjoy sun-soaked adventures and cultural tours with fewer crowds.

Norway

September is a serene time to visit Norway, with golden landscapes, fjord cruises, and early chances of witnessing the Northern Lights. Outdoor experiences are rich, and cities like Oslo stay vibrant. The Norway trip cost from India may be moderate, but early autumn offers value through fewer tourists and off-peak travel deals.

You can apply for a travel loan to fund your trips and make the best out of them.

You get two long weekends in September 2026 to plan a trip without using too many of your paid leaves.

Here’s how:

4th September to 6th September (Friday to Sunday)

• 4th September (Friday): Janmashtami

• 5th September (Saturday): Weekend

• 6th September (Sunday): Weekend
  
  

12th September to 14th September (Saturday to Monday)

• 12th September (Saturday): Weekend

• 13th September (Sunday): Weekend

• 14th September (Monday): Ganesh Chaturthi
  
  

You can take advantage of these long weekends and plan a family outing without using your leaves.