This holiday page is designed for the state of Bihar, one of the largest states in India in terms of area. In India, general holidays typically refer to mandatory holidays, public holidays, and government holidays. These public holidays are observed across banks (both public and private sectors) as well as local, state, and central government offices.

Bihar Holiday Calendar 2026

The Bihar holiday list for 2026 provides a great opportunity to plan your leaves effectively and make the most of long weekends. Here, we have compiled a comprehensive list of public, national, and bank holidays in Bihar for the year 2026.

Date   Day  Holiday 
26 January 2026  Monday   Republic Day 
3 March 2026  Tuesday  Holi 
21 March 2026  Saturday  Idul Fitr 
22 March 2026  Sunday  Bihar Day 
27 March 2026  Friday  Ram Navami 
3 April 2026  Friday   Good Friday 
14 April 2026  Tuesday  Dr Ambedkar Jayanti 
1 May 2026  Friday  May Day 
27 May 2026  Wednesday  Bakrid 
26 June 2026  Friday  Muharram 
15 August 2026  Saturday  Independence Day 
4 September 2026  Friday  Janmashtami 
2 October 2026  Friday  Gandhi Jayanti 
20 October 2026  Tuesday  Maha Navami 
21 October 2026  Wednesday  Vijaya Dashami
8 November 2026  Sunday  Diwali 
15 November 2026  Sunday  Chhath Puja 
16 November 2026  Monday  Chhath Puja Holiday 
25 December 2026 Friday  Christmas Day 

Bank Holidays in Bihar 2026

Below is the list of bank holidays in Bihar for the year 2026:

Date   Day   Holiday  
26 January 2026  Monday   Republic Day  
3 March 2026  Tuesday   Holi  
21 March 2026  Saturday   Idul Fitr  
22 March 2026  Sunday   Bihar Day  
27 March 2026  Friday   Ram Navami 
3 April 2026  Friday   Good Friday 
14 April 2026  Tuesday   Dr Ambedkar Jayanti  
1 May 2026  Friday   May Day  
27 May 2026  Wednesday   Bakrid / Eid al Adha  
26 June 2026  Friday   Muharram  
15 August 2026  Saturday   Independence Day  
4 September 2026  Friday   Janmashtami  
2 October 2026  Friday  Gandhi Jayanti 
20 October 2026  Tuesday   Maha Navami  
21 October 2026  Wednesday   Vijaya Dashami 
8 November 2026  Sunday   Diwali  
15 November 2026  Sunday   Chhath Puja  
16 November 2026  Monday   Chhath Puja Holiday  
25 December 2026  Friday   Christmas Day 

National Holidays in Bihar

India observes three major national holidays across all states—Republic Day, Independence Day, and Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti. These holidays are celebrated nationwide, including in Bihar.

  • Republic Day (January): Celebrates the adoption of the Indian Constitution.
  • Independence Day (August): Marks India’s independence from British rule.
  • Gandhi Jayanti (October): Commemorates the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation.

In addition to these, regional or local festival holidays vary depending on cultural traditions and religious significance within the state.

Note: As per the guidelines of the Reserve Bank of India, banks remain closed on the second and fourth Saturdays of every month. Regional bank holidays may differ across states, but ATMs and digital banking services remain operational even on holidays.

Why Bihar Holidays Matter in 2026

Holidays play an important role in helping individuals plan their personal and professional schedules. While most people get regular weekly offs on Sundays (and Saturdays in some private organizations), government offices typically operate six days a week. Along with these, employees also receive festival and regional holidays.

A well-planned holiday calendar enables working professionals to:

  • Plan vacations in advance
  • Book travel and accommodation at lower costs
  • Organize family time and leisure activities efficiently

Bihar-Specific Holidays in 2026

  • Bihar Diwas: Celebrated on 22 March, this day marks the formation of the state of Bihar and is observed with cultural events and celebrations.
  • Chhath Puja: One of the most significant festivals in Bihar, dedicated to the Sun God (Surya). Devotees observe strict fasting and offer prayers at rivers or water bodies during sunrise and sunset.

Top Tourist Places to Visit in Bihar During Holidays

  • Nalanda University ruins: One of the oldest universities in the world, reflecting the rich educational heritage of ancient India.
  • Gaya: A major Hindu pilgrimage site and gateway to Bodh Gaya, where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment.
  • Vaishali: An ancient city known for its historical and religious significance, including its connection to Lord Mahavira and Buddha.
  • Munger: Famous for the Bihar School of Yoga and its historical importance.
  • Patna: The capital city, located on the banks of the Ganga, known for its rich history and modern development.

FAQs on Bihar Holidays 2026

Are public holidays and bank holidays the same in Bihar?

Yes, most public holidays are also bank holidays. However, banks additionally remain closed on the second and fourth Saturdays.

Which months have the most holidays in Bihar?

March, October, and November usually have the highest number of public holidays.

Which holidays are unique to Bihar?

Bihar Diwas (22 March) is a state-specific holiday.

Are Bihar public holidays applicable across India?

Some holidays are national and apply everywhere, while others like Bihar Diwas are specific to the state only.

Which month has the least holidays in 2026?

February generally has the fewest holidays, apart from weekends.