Holidays in September 2025

September marks the end of the monsoon, making it a great time to plan a vacation. With a list of September holidays ahead, you can easily schedule your leaves and trip. It's also the month when festivals start across India, making it an exciting time for travel and celebrations.

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

In addition to the public holidays in September, here are the bank holidays coming in the month:

Here is the day announced as a gazetted holiday by the Indian Government for September 2025:

Here is the September holiday list, which includes various restricted holidays in 2025 that you can consider for planning your time off:

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

Onam

Onam, the harvest festival of Kerala, is a vibrant 10-day celebration marked by cultural events, traditional feasts, and community gatherings. It honours the homecoming of King Mahabali, symbolising prosperity and unity. 

Highlights include the Pookalam (floral rangoli), the famous Vallam Kali (snake boat races), and the grand Onam Sadya, a traditional meal served on banana leaves. August or September is the best time to experience Kerala’s rich cultural heritage during this festival.

Eid-e-Milad

Eid-e-Milad commemorates the birth of Prophet Muhammad. Celebrated by Muslims worldwide, it is a day for prayer, charity, and gatherings. 

In India, processions and special prayers are held, with homes and mosques illuminated in honour of the Prophet’s teachings of compassion and humility. The festival fosters a sense of unity and devotion within the community.

First Day of Bathukamma

The First Day of Bathukamma in Telangana marks the beginning of the Bathukamma festival, which is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Gauri. 

This vibrant festival involves the creation of beautiful floral arrangements, dance performances, and traditional songs, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Telangana.

Sree Narayana Guru Jayanti

Sree Narayana Guru Jayanti on 7th September is a significant day for Kerala, celebrating the birth of Sree Narayana Guru, a social reformer and spiritual leader who promoted equality and social justice. 

It is a day of reflection on his contributions to Kerala’s social and spiritual fabric, marked by prayers, processions, and community activities.

Sree Narayana Guru Samadhi

On 21st September, Sree Narayana Guru Samadhi is observed in Kerala, marking the day of Guru’s Samadhi (passing). 

This day is dedicated to his memory and is observed with prayers, community gatherings, and cultural programs, celebrating his teachings of social equality and non-discrimination.

Mahalaya Amavasye

Mahalaya Amavasye, observed on 21st September, is an important day in the Durga Puja calendar, especially in West Bengal, Odisha, Tripura, and Karnataka. 

It marks the beginning of the Durga Puja festivities, with families remembering their ancestors through rituals known as Tarpan, and setting the stage for the grand celebrations of the Puja.

First Day of Durga Puja Festivities

The first day of Durga Puja festivities falls on the auspicious day of Maha Sashthi, or the sixth day of Durga Puja. 

This day marks the beginning of the main rites and rituals, setting up elaborately decorated pandals. It sets the stage for days of cultural performances, community feasts, and spiritual fervour.

Maha Saptami

Maha Saptami, observed on 29th September, is the seventh day of Durga Puja. Devotees worship Goddess Durga in her most powerful form, marking the start of the main phase of the Durga Puja. It’s a day for special prayers, rituals, and a sense of spiritual unity.

Maha Ashtami

Maha Ashtami, the eighth day of Durga Puja, is one of the most significant days of the festival. Devotees worship the goddess in her fierce form, offering special prayers, including the Sandhi Puja, which marks the transition between Ashtami and Navami. The day is marked by processions, rituals, and vibrant celebrations, symbolising the victory of good over evil.

Here are some traditional and unique ways to celebrate various festivals in September 2025:

Onam

Traditional Onam celebrations involve decorating homes with Pookalam, a vibrant floral rangoli, and preparing the grand Onam Sadya, a multi-course vegetarian feast served on banana leaves. Families dress in traditional Kerala attire, perform folk dances like Thiruvathira, and participate in temple rituals. 

A new way to celebrate Onam could be by hosting eco-friendly Pookalam competitions and encouraging the use of locally sourced and biodegradable flowers. Virtual Onam gatherings with friends and family, where everyone cooks and enjoys the Sadya together via video calls, have become a popular modern twist. 

Another unique idea is to organise small community events to teach children the significance of Onam through storytelling or workshops on making traditional crafts.

Eid-e-Milad

Traditionally, Eid-e-Milad is observed with prayers, sermons about the Prophet Muhammad’s teachings, and charitable acts. Processions through local streets and the distribution of food to the needy are central to the day. 

A unique way to celebrate could include creating interfaith dialogue events to foster understanding and harmony among communities. Modern households can engage children by organising storytelling sessions about the Prophet’s life and values. 

They can also take part in activities like crafting decorative banners with Islamic calligraphy. Sharing e-greetings and hosting virtual prayer meetings allows for a broader, inclusive celebration while preserving the festival’s spiritual essence.

First Day of Bathukamma

The First Day of Bathukamma, celebrated in Telangana, marks the beginning of the Bathukamma festival dedicated to Goddess Gauri. Traditional celebrations include arranging a floral Bathukamma (a tower of flowers) and performing folk dances in vibrant attire. 

A modern twist could be hosting eco-friendly Bathukamma floral competitions, where participants use locally sourced flowers. Virtual celebrations, where families can participate from different locations, could bring people together, preserving the joy and vibrancy of the festival while maintaining its traditional beauty.

Sree Narayana Guru Jayanti

Sree Narayana Guru Jayanti on 7th September celebrates the birth of the great social reformer Sree Narayana Guru. Traditional observances include prayers, processions, and discussions on his teachings of social equality. 

A unique way to celebrate could involve hosting online talks or webinars to discuss his philosophies, bringing together diverse communities. You could also organise educational events for children and youth to learn about his contributions to Kerala’s social and spiritual fabric.

Sree Narayana Guru Samadhi

Observed on 21st September, Sree Narayana Guru Samadhi is a day to remember and honour the guru’s legacy. Traditional practices include offering prayers and engaging in social welfare activities. 

A modern take on this celebration could include virtual events for people across the world to reflect on his teachings of equality and unity. 

Engaging younger generations through creative workshops or digital storytelling about his life could make this day meaningful and inspiring.

Mahalaya Amavasye

Mahalaya Amavasye, observed on 21st September, is an important ritual in the Durga Puja festivities, particularly in West Bengal and Odisha. Families perform Tarpan to honour their ancestors. 

A unique celebration could involve virtual Tarpan rituals where families can gather online to perform and share their prayers. 

Additionally, creating community workshops that teach the significance of this day and its connection to the Durga Puja would be a meaningful way to engage younger generations.

First Day of Durga Puja Festivities

The First Day of Durga Puja Festivities on 22nd September marks the official start of Durga Puja with the installation of Durga idols in pandals. Traditional celebrations include rituals like Bodhan, offering prayers, and cultural performances. 

A modern twist could be to design eco-friendly idols and use sustainable decorations to reduce environmental impact. Communities can organise online cultural performances or virtual darshan of pandals for people who cannot attend in person. 

Workshops on creating traditional sweets or making eco-friendly idols can also help people engage creatively with the festival.

Maha Saptami

Maha Saptami, observed on 29th September, is the seventh day of Durga Puja and one of its most significant rituals. Devotees worship Goddess Durga in her powerful form, marking the beginning of the main phase of Durga Puja. 

Communities can host storytelling sessions to narrate the goddess’s battle against Mahishasura, making these ancient tales more accessible to younger generations. Eco-friendly pandal decorations and Bhog (sacred food) distribution to the less fortunate can make the celebration more inclusive.

Maha Ashtami

Maha Ashtami, observed on 30th September, is the eighth day of Durga Puja. The day is marked by Sandhi Puja, which takes place during the transition between Ashtami and Navami. A modern way to celebrate could involve sustainable pandal competitions, focusing on environmental consciousness. 

Additionally, Bhog distribution to communities that cannot attend in person and virtual prayers can help foster a sense of unity and inclusivity. Organising workshops for families to learn how to make traditional Durga Puja sweets or decorate with natural materials would add a creative element to the festivities.

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

Kerala

Kerala is at its vibrant best in September with the Onam festivities. Visitors can join activities like Pookalam (floral rangoli-making), watch classical dance performances, and enjoy the famous Onam Sadya, a traditional vegetarian feast. 

The Vallam Kali (snake boat race) in Alleppey and Kumarakom is a must-see. Beyond the celebrations, Kerala’s backwaters, houseboat stays, and Ayurvedic treatments offer relaxation and serenity.

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 get two long weekends in September 2025 to plan a trip without using too many of your paid leaves.

Here’s how:

3rd September to 7th September

• Wednesday, 3rd September – Karma Puja
  

• Thursday, 4th September – Take a day off
  

• Friday, 5th September – Eid-e-Milad / Onam
  

• Saturday 6th September – Weekend
  

• Sunday, 7th September – Weekend

 27th September to 30th September

• Saturday, 27th September – Weekend
  

• Sunday, 28th September – First Day of Durga Puja Festivities
  

• Monday, 29th September – Maha Saptami
  

• Tuesday, 30th September – Maha Ashtami
  

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