Below is a list of all the holidays in Kerala for 2026. The list includes all public, bank, regional, and national holidays in Kerala in 2026. You may refer to this list and look for long weekends to plan your vacations.

National and Regional Public Holidays of Kerala in 2026

Date   Holiday   Day  
2 January 2026  Mannam Jayanti  Friday  
26 January 2026  Republic Day Monday  
15 February 2026  Maha Shivaratri  Sunday  
21 March 2026  Idul Fitr  Saturday  
3 April 2026  Good Friday  Friday  
5 April 2026  Ester Sunday  Sunday  
14 April 2026  Dr Ambedkar Jayanti  Tuesday  
14 April 2026  Vishu   Tuesday  
1 May 2026  May Day  Friday  
27 May 2026  Bakrid   Wednesday  
15 August 2026  Independence Day  Saturday  
25 August 2026  First Onam  Tuesday  
25 August 2026  Eid e Milad  Tuesday  
27 August 2026  Thiruvonam   Thursday  
21 September 2026  Sree Narayana Guru Samadhi Monday  
26 September 2026  Sree Narayana Guru Jayanti  Saturday  
2 October 2026  Gandhi Jayanti  Friday  
20 October 2026  Maha Navami  Tuesday  
21 October 2026  Vijaya Dashami  Wednesday  
8 November 2026  Diwali      Sunday
25 December 2026  Christmas Day   Friday

Bank Holidays in Kerala in 2026

Date   Holiday  Day  
2 January 2026  Mannam Jayanti  Friday  
10 January 2026  2nd Saturday Bank Holiday  Saturday  
24 January 2026  4th Saturday Bank Holiday  Saturday 
26 January 2026  Republic Day  Monday  
14 February 2026  2nd Saturday Bank Holiday  Saturday  
15 February 2026  Maha Shivaratri  Sunday  
28 February 2026  4th Saturday Bank Holiday  Saturday  
14 March 2026  2nd Saturday Bank Holiday  Saturday  
21 March 2026  Idul Fitr  Saturday  
28 March 2026  4th Saturday Bank Holiday  Saturday  
3 April 2026  Good Friday  Friday  
5 April 2026  Easter Sunday  Sunday  
11 April 2026  2nd Saturday Bank Holiday  Saturday  
14 April 2026  Dr Ambedkar Jayanti  Tuesday  
14 April 2026  Vishu   Tuesday  
25 April 2026  4th Saturday Bank Holiday  Saturday  
1 May 2026  May Day  Friday  
9 May 2026  2nd Saturday Bank Holiday  Saturday  
23 May 2026  4th Saturday Bank Holiday  Saturday  
27 May 2026  Bakrid   Wednesday  
13 June 2026  2nd Saturday Bank Holiday  Saturday  
27 June 2026  4th Saturday Bank Holiday  Saturday  
11 July 2026  2nd Saturday Bank Holiday  Saturday  
25 July 2026  4th Saturday Bank Holiday  Saturday  
8 August 2026  2nd Saturday Bank Holiday  Saturday  
15 August 2026  Independence Day  Saturday  
22 August 2026  4th Saturday Bank Holiday  Saturday  
25 August 2026  First Onam  Tuesday  
25 August 2026  Eid e Milad  Tuesday  
27 August 2026  Thiruvonam   Thursday  
12 September 2026  2nd Saturday Bank Holiday  Saturday  
21 September 2026  Sree Narayana Guru Samadhi  Monday  
26 September 2026  4th Saturday Bank Holiday  Saturday  
26 September 2026  Sree Narayana Guru Jayanti  Saturday  
2 October 2026  Gandhi Jayanti  Friday  
10 October 2026  2nd Saturday Bank Holiday  Saturday  
20 October 2026  Maha Navami  Tuesday  
21 October 2026  Vijaya Dashami  Wednesday  
24 October 2026  4th Saturday Bank Holiday  Saturday  
8 November 2026  Diwali   Sunday  
14 November 2026  2nd Saturday Bank Holiday  Saturday  
28 November 2026  4th Saturday Bank Holiday  Saturday  
12 December 2026  2nd Saturday Bank Holiday  Saturday  
25 December 2026  Christmas   Friday  
26 December 2026  4th Saturday Bank Holiday  Saturday  

Kerala has regional holidays in addition to national ones; also, there are bank holidays that are observed in Kerala. During these bank holidays in Kerala, banks remain closed. As per an agreement between the Indian Banks’ Association and the All India Bank Employees’ Association, all public sector banks in Kerala and other states of India are closed on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month.

Major Festival Holidays in Kerala in 2026

Kerala is renowned for its vibrant festivals and rich cultural traditions. One of the most celebrated events is Onam, which will be observed in August 2026. This grand festival is famous for its lively mix of indoor and outdoor celebrations, including traditional boat races, Kathakali performances, music, and elaborate feasts.

Another significant festival is Vishu, celebrated in April 2026. Considered the Malayalam New Year, Vishu is also a harvest festival marked by prosperity rituals, beautiful decorations, and festive meals.

Thrissur Pooram is one of the most iconic temple festivals in the state, with a history of over 200 years. Known for its grandeur, decorated elephants, and spectacular fireworks, the celebration continues for nearly 36 hours.

Like the rest of India, Christmas Day is also widely celebrated in Kerala. On December 25, 2026, churches are beautifully decorated, special prayers are held, and traditional Kerala sweets add joy to the festive spirit.

Best Places to Visit During Kerala Holidays 2026

Kerala, often called “God’s Own Country,” offers breathtaking destinations perfect for holiday travel. Here are some of the top places to explore:

Alappuzha Backwaters

Alappuzha Backwaters is one of the most famous backwater destinations in India. Often referred to as the “Venice of the East,” it is known for scenic houseboat cruises, serene canals, beaches, and exciting boat races.

Munnar

Munnar is a paradise for nature lovers, famous for its lush tea plantations and cool climate. Visitors can explore tea estates, learn about tea processing, and enjoy breathtaking hill views.

Kochi (Cochin)

Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a historic port city blending colonial charm with modern culture. Popular attractions include Santa Cruz Basilica, Chinese fishing nets, the Dutch Cemetery, Jewish Synagogue, and several temples.

FAQs on Kerala Holidays

What are the major holidays observed in Kerala in 2026?

Major holidays include New Year, Pongal, Republic Day, Vishu, Good Friday, Onam, Eid-ul-Fitr, Independence Day, Diwali, and Christmas.

Are there any regional holidays in Kerala?

Yes, Kerala celebrates regional events such as Kerala Piravi (State Formation Day), Attukal Pongala, Thrissur Pooram, and the Nehru Trophy Boat Race.

What is the significance of bank holidays in Kerala?

Bank holidays are days when banking institutions remain closed, allowing employees time off while maintaining essential services through digital platforms.

Do bank holidays affect financial transactions?

Offline banking services may be unavailable, but online transactions like fund transfers and bill payments continue without interruption.

Are there rules governing bank holidays?

Yes, bank holidays follow guidelines issued by national banking authorities to ensure uniformity across India.

Can businesses operate during bank holidays?

Yes, most businesses and shops remain open, although some may adjust their operations.

Is online banking available during holidays?

Yes, internet banking, mobile banking, and ATM services remain operational.

How can residents plan vacations in 2026?

By aligning leave with public holidays, residents can extend their vacations and explore more destinations.

Why are cultural festivals important in Kerala?

Cultural festivals play a vital role in preserving Kerala’s traditions, fostering community bonding, and showcasing its rich heritage.