List of Holidays in Kerala 2026

byPaytm Editorial TeamLast Updated: March 17, 2026
holidays-in-kerala

The year 2026 in Kerala promises a delightful tapestry of celebrations, offering moments of joy, community, and cultural immersion. From vibrant festivals that showcase the state’s rich traditions to serene observances that bring people together, each holiday is an invitation to experience the unique spirit of God’s Own Country. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the upcoming holidays, ensuring you can thoughtfully plan your year and fully embrace every festive occasion with ease.

National Holidays in Kerala 2026

Like every state across India, Kerala observes three significant national holidays that unite the country in remembrance and celebration. These days are universally recognised and are a time for collective reflection and national pride. They mark important moments in India’s history and are observed with respect and enthusiasm throughout the state.

These national holidays are distinct from other public holidays as they are declared by the central government and are uniformly observed across all states and Union Territories. This uniform observance ensures national cohesion and respect for shared history, fostering a sense of shared identity and national unity.

Common Confusion: Gazetted vs. National Holidays

While all National Holidays are Gazetted Holidays, not all Gazetted Holidays are National Holidays. National Holidays are observed nationwide, whereas other Gazetted Holidays can be state-specific.

Understanding National Holiday Observance

Observing national holidays involves more than just a day off; it is about honouring the nation’s heritage. Government offices, banks, and most educational institutions remain closed on these days. It is a time for citizens to engage in patriotic activities or spend quality time with family.

  • Republic Day celebrates the adoption of the Constitution of India.
  • Independence Day marks India’s freedom from British rule.
  • Gandhi Jayanti honours the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

List of Gazetted Holidays in Kerala 2026

Beyond the national observances, Kerala’s calendar for 2026 is rich with gazetted holidays, reflecting its diverse cultural and religious landscape. These holidays are officially declared by the state government and cover major festivals and significant regional events. It is important to note that some of these dates, particularly for Islamic festivals, are subject to the sighting of the moon and may be adjusted.

The Kerala Government Gazette is the official source for these declarations, ensuring clarity for all public offices and institutions within the state. Staying informed about these dates helps in planning personal and professional engagements effectively. This official publication is crucial for accurate holiday observance.

*Subject to change depending on the appearance of the moon.

Quick Context: What are Gazetted Holidays?

Gazetted holidays are mandatory public holidays declared by the government, meaning most government offices, schools, and banks are closed.

Key Official Authority for Holiday Declarations

The General Administration (Co-ordination) Department of the Government of Kerala is the key official authority responsible for notifying public holidays in the state. They issue official gazette notifications, such as G. O. (P) No. 14/2025/GAD, which outlines the holidays for the upcoming year. For central government offices, the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions issues the holiday list.

Pro Tip: Always Verify Dates

For festivals like Id-ul-Fitr, Id-ul-Ad’ha, Muharram, and Milad-i-Sherif, always verify the exact date through electronic or print media announcements, as they are subject to moon sighting.

List of Public Holidays in Kerala 2026

Kerala’s public holidays for 2026 encompass a wide array of regional festivals and cultural observances that are an important part of the state’s culture. These holidays allow residents to partake in local traditions, family gatherings, and community celebrations. While many gazetted holidays are also public holidays, this list specifically highlights those that are widely observed by the public.

It is important to remember that all Sundays and the second and fourth Saturdays of each month are generally observed as closed holidays for public offices and banks. This ensures that employees have regular breaks throughout the year. These regular breaks are vital for employee well-being and productivity.

Mannam Jayanthi, celebrating the birth of Mannathu Padmanabhan, is observed in January. Vishu, the Malayalam New Year, falls in April and is a significant harvest festival. Onam, a major harvest festival, is celebrated over several days in August. Sree Narayana Guru Jayanthi and Samadhi Day honour the social reformer Sree Narayana Guru in August and September respectively.

Understanding the Difference: Public vs. Restricted Holidays

While public holidays are generally observed by all, some holidays are categorised as “Restricted Holidays.” These are optional holidays that employees can choose to take, usually a limited number per year, based on their personal or religious observances. This offers flexibility for individuals to celebrate festivals important to them that may not be general public holidays.

Step 1: Check the Official Gazette: Always refer to the Kerala Government Gazette for the most accurate and up-to-date list of public holidays.

Step 2: Consult Your Employer: If you are employed, confirm your organisation’s specific holiday policy, especially regarding restricted holidays.

Step 3: Monitor Media for Tentative Dates: For holidays dependent on moon sighting, keep an eye on official announcements in local news or government portals.

Common Confusion: Bank Holidays vs. Public Holidays

While many public holidays are also bank holidays, some specific bank holidays exist (e.g., Annual Closing of Accounts on 1 April 2026) that may not be public holidays for other sectors.

Month-wise Kerala Holidays 2026

Planning your year becomes much simpler when you have a month-by-month overview of holidays. Kerala’s calendar for 2026 is thoughtfully spread out, offering opportunities for celebration and relaxation throughout the year. This section provides a quick glance at the major holidays in each month, helping you anticipate long weekends and festive periods.

This monthly breakdown is particularly useful for those planning travel within the state or coordinating family events. Remember that some dates are tentative and should be re-verified closer to the time. Always confirm these dates to avoid any unexpected changes.

  • January: Mannam Jayanthi (2 January), Republic Day (26 January).
  • February: Maha Shivaratri in 2026 falls on a Sunday (15 February), so it is not a separate public holiday for offices.
  • March: Id-ul-Fitr (Ramzan) (20 March, tentative).
  • April: Maundy Thursday (2 April), Good Friday (3 April), Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Jayanthi (14 April), Vishu (15 April).
  • May: May Day (1 May), Id-ul-Ad’ha (Bakrid) (27 May, tentative).
  • June: Muharram (25 June, tentative).
  • August: Karkadaka Vavu (12 August), Independence Day (15 August), First Onam / Milad-i-Sherif (25 August, tentative), Thiruvonam (26 August), Third Onam (27 August), Fourth Onam / Sree Narayana Guru Jayanthi / Ayyankali Jayanthi (28 August).
  • September: Sreekrishna Jayanthi (4 September), Sree Narayana Guru Samadhi Day (21 September).
  • October: Gandhi Jayanthi (2 October), Mahanavami (20 October), Vijayadasami (21 October). Deepavali in 2026 falls on a Sunday (8 November), so it is not a separate public holiday for offices.
  • December: Christmas (25 December).

Pro Tip: Plan Ahead for Long Weekends

By checking the holiday calendar, you can strategically plan your leave around public holidays to create longer breaks for travel or personal time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Planning Holidays

A common mistake many individuals make is assuming all public holidays apply to their specific workplace or sector. For instance, while state government offices observe all notified public holidays, private sector companies may have a different list. Additionally, not verifying tentative dates for festivals like Eid can lead to last-minute disruptions in plans. Always cross-reference with official sources and your employer’s specific holiday schedule.

Another oversight is not checking for restricted holidays. For example, Smita, a logistics manager in Lucknow, might overlook the option to take a restricted holiday for a specific regional festival important to her family, simply because it is not a general public holiday. Understanding these categories allows for more personalised holiday planning.

Eligibility Check: Does the Holiday Apply to You?

Before making any plans based on the holiday list, the number one eligibility check you must perform is to confirm how these holidays apply to your specific employment or institution. Holiday observance can vary significantly across different sectors and organisations. Understanding these variations is key to accurate planning.

For example, while government offices and banks strictly adhere to the gazetted list, private companies often have their own holiday schedules. Educational institutions also follow a distinct calendar. Each sector has its own specific set of observed holidays.

  • Government Employees: Generally follow the official gazette notification from the state government.
  • Bank Employees: Observe holidays as declared under the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881, in addition to Sundays and second/fourth Saturdays.
  • Private Sector Employees: Must refer to their company’s HR policy or internal holiday calendar.
  • Educational Institutions: Follow their academic calendar, which incorporates public holidays.

Quick Context: Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881

This Act empowers the government to declare certain days as public holidays for financial institutions, ensuring uniformity in banking operations.

How to Confirm Your Applicable Holidays

Confirming your applicable holidays is a straightforward process that involves checking official and internal sources. This proactive step helps prevent any confusion or missed opportunities for time off.

Step 1: Access the Kerala Government Gazette: Visit the official website of the Government of Kerala, specifically the General Administration Department, to view the latest holiday notification for 2026.

Step 2: Review Your Organisation’s Policy: Consult your Human Resources department or internal communication channels for your company’s specific holiday list.

Step 3: Check for Restricted Holiday Options: If your organisation offers restricted holidays, understand the process for applying for them and the number you are eligible to take.

Conclusion

The 2026 holiday calendar for Kerala offers a wonderful array of opportunities to celebrate the state’s rich cultural heritage and diverse traditions. By familiarising yourself with the official gazetted and public holidays, you can effectively plan your year, whether for personal relaxation, family gatherings, or travel. Regularly checking the Kerala Government Gazette ensures you have the most accurate dates, especially for those festivals subject to moon sighting, allowing you to fully embrace every festive moment.

Author

Paytm Editorial Team

The Paytm Editorial Team is a collaborative group of writers, editors, and industry experts. We're dedicated to bringing you the latest insights, news, and guides on digital payments, financial services, and the technology that's shaping India's economy. We offer easy-to-follow guides and insights to help you explore Paytm’s products, features, and services. Our goal is to provide clear, reliable, and helpful information to empower you on your financial journey.

FAQs

How can I find the official list of public holidays in Kerala for 2026?

You can find the official list of public holidays for Kerala in 2026 by referring to the Kerala Government Gazette. This is the most accurate and authoritative source, as holiday declarations are made by the General Administration (Co-ordination) Department. For instance, the gazette will confirm dates for festivals like Vishu on 15 April 2026 and Onam from 25-28 August 2026. Always visit the official website of the Government of Kerala, specifically the General Administration Department, to view the latest holiday notification. This ensures you have the most up-to-date information for your planning.

What is the difference between a National Holiday and a Gazetted Holiday in Kerala for 2026?

Yes, there's a clear distinction. **National Holidays** are observed universally across all states and Union Territories in India, declared by the central government. In Kerala for 2026, these include Republic Day on 26 January, Independence Day on 15 August, and Gandhi Jayanti on 02 October. **Gazetted Holidays**, on the other hand, are officially declared by the Kerala state government, reflecting its unique cultural and religious diversity. While all National Holidays are also Gazetted Holidays, many Gazetted Holidays are state-specific, such as Mannam Jayanthi on 02 January or Vishu on 15 April 2026, which may not be observed nationwide.

When is Onam celebrated in Kerala in 2026, and how many days are observed as holidays?

Onam in Kerala for 2026 is celebrated over several days, with multiple days officially observed as public holidays. The main Onam holidays are: First Onam / Milad-i-Sherif on 25 August, Thiruvonam on 26 August, Third Onam on 27 August, and Fourth Onam / Sree Narayana Guru Jayanthi / Ayyankali Jayanthi on 28 August. This means you can anticipate a four-day festive period in late August to immerse yourself in the vibrant harvest festival. Always remember that the Milad-i-Sherif date is subject to moon sighting, so verify closer to the time.

Why are some holidays in Kerala for 2026, like Id-ul-Fitr, marked as tentative, and how should I plan around them?

Some holidays in Kerala for 2026, particularly Islamic festivals like Id-ul-Fitr (tentatively 20 March), Id-ul-Ad'ha (tentatively 27 May), and Muharram (tentatively 25 June), are marked as tentative because their exact dates depend on the sighting of the moon. This is a common practice for lunar calendar-based festivals. To plan effectively, always monitor official announcements through electronic or print media closer to the expected dates. For example, if you're planning travel around Id-ul-Fitr, book flexible accommodations and flights, and confirm the final holiday date a week or two beforehand.

Is there a significant difference in holiday observance between government and private sector employees in Kerala in 2026?

Yes, there is a significant difference. **Government employees** in Kerala generally follow the comprehensive list of gazetted holidays declared by the state government, such as Republic Day on 26 January or Christmas on 25 December 2026. **Private sector employees**, however, must refer to their specific company's HR policy or internal holiday calendar, which may not observe all gazetted holidays. For instance, a private IT firm might offer a different set of holidays than a state government office. Always consult your Human Resources department to confirm your organisation's exact holiday schedule for 2026.

What are the main benefits of checking the Kerala Government Gazette for 2026 holidays compared to a general online list?

The main benefit of checking the Kerala Government Gazette for 2026 holidays is obtaining the most accurate and legally binding information. General online lists might not always be updated promptly or reflect specific state government nuances. The Gazette, issued by the General Administration (Co-ordination) Department, is the official declaration, ensuring clarity for all public offices and institutions. For example, it provides precise dates for festivals like Vishu on 15 April 2026 and clearly marks holidays subject to moon sighting. Always cross-reference with this official source to avoid planning errors, especially for travel or official appointments.

What should I do if my private company's holiday list for Kerala 2026 doesn't match the official government gazette?

If your private company's holiday list for Kerala in 2026 doesn't align with the official government gazette, you should primarily adhere to your company's internal policy. Private sector companies are not legally bound to observe all state gazetted holidays, unlike government offices. For example, your company might not declare a holiday for Mannam Jayanthi on 02 January 2026, even if it's gazetted. Always consult your Human Resources department or internal communication channels to confirm your organisation's specific holiday schedule and policy. If a particular festival is important to you, inquire about restricted holiday options.

Are all Saturdays and Sundays in 2026 considered public holidays for employees in Kerala?

No, not all Saturdays are considered public holidays for all employees in Kerala during 2026. While all Sundays are generally observed as closed holidays, only the second and fourth Saturdays of each month are typically observed as holidays for public offices and banks. This means the first, third, and fifth Saturdays (if any) are usually working days. For example, if 04 January 2026 is a first Saturday, it would likely be a working day for banks, whereas 10 January 2026 (second Saturday) would be a holiday. Always check your employer's specific policy.

Can I take a holiday for Deepavali or Maha Shivaratri in Kerala in 2026 if they fall on a Sunday?

No, you generally cannot take an additional separate holiday for Deepavali or Maha Shivaratri in Kerala in 2026 if they fall on a Sunday. This is because Sunday is already a standard weekly off-day for most employees and institutions. For instance, Maha Shivaratri on 15 February 2026 and Deepavali on 08 November 2026 both fall on a Sunday, meaning they are not declared as additional public holidays for offices. If these festivals are significant for you, check if your employer offers "Restricted Holidays" which you can opt to take for personal or religious observances.
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