The 2026 list of holidays in Karnataka provides insight into days which could be utilized to plan your vacations as well as schedule your business activities and operations.

List of Government Holidays in Karnataka

Given below is the list of public holidays in Karnataka in the year 2026:

Date  Day  Holiday 
14 January 2026   Wednesday  Makara Sankranti
26 January 2026  Monday  Republic Day 
15 February 2026   Sunday  Maha Shivratri 
20 March 2026  Friday  Ugadi 
21 March 2026   Saturday  Id-ul-Fitr   
31 March 2026  Tuesday   Mahavir Jayanti 
3 April 2026   Friday  Good Friday 
14 April 2026  Tuesday  Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Jayanti 
20 April 2026  Monday  Basava Jayanti  
1 May 2026  Friday  May Day 
27 May 2026  Wednesday  Bakrid Eid or Eid al Adha 
26 June 2026  Friday   Muharram 
15 August 2026   Saturday  Independence Day 
25 August 2026   Tuesday  Eid e Milad 
14 September 2026   Monday  Ganesh Chaturthi 
2 October 2026  Friday  Gandhi Jayanti   
10 October 2026  Saturday  Mahalaya Amavasye 
11 October 2026  Sunday  Maharaja Agrasen Jayanti 
19 October 2026   Monday  Maha Navami 
20 October 2026   Tuesday  Vijay Dashami 
26 October 2026  Monday  Maharishi Valmiki’s Birthday 
1 November 2026  Sunday  Kannada Rajyothsava 
8 November 2026  Sunday  Diwali 
9 November 2026  Monday  Deepavali Holiday 
27 November 2026  Friday  Kanakadasa Jayanti
25 December 2026   Friday  Christmas 

Bank Holidays in Karnataka in 2026

Below is the list of bank holidays in Karnataka in 2026 which will assist you in planning your bank-related transactions and visits in advance:

The mentioned holiday list in Karnataka for 2026 could help you plan your vacations with a smarter approach. With this list of 2026 holidays, one can plan leaves alongside the holidays during the calendar year in Karnataka efficiently.

Date  Day  Holiday 
10 January 2026  Saturday  2nd Saturday 
14 January 2026  Wednesday  Makar Sankranti 
24 January 2026   Saturday  4th Saturday 
26 January 2026  Monday  Republic Day 
14 February 2026  Saturday  2nd Saturday 
15 February 2026   Sunday  Maha Shivratri 
28 February 2026   Saturday  4th Saturday 
14 March 2026    Saturday  2nd Saturday 
21 March 2026   Saturday  Id-ul-Fitr   
28 March 2026   Saturday  4th Saturday 
31 March 2026  Tuesday     Mahavir Jayanti 
3 April 2026  Friday  Good Friday 
11 April 2026   Saturday  2nd Saturday 
14 April 2026    Tuesday  Dr Ambedkar Jayanti   
20 April 2026  Monday  Basava Jayanti  
25 April 2026  Saturday  4th Saturday 
1 May 2026    Friday  May Day/ Labour Day 
9 May 2026  Saturday  2nd Saturday 
23 May 2026   Saturday  4th Saturday 
27 May 2026  Wednesday  Bakrid Eid or Eid al Adha 
13 June 2026  Saturday  2nd Saturday 
26 June 2026   Friday   Muharram 
27 June 2026   Saturday  4th Saturday 
11 July 2026  Saturday  2nd Saturday 
25 July 2026   Saturday  4th Saturday 
8 August 2026  Saturday  2nd Saturday 
15 August 2026   Saturday  Independence Day 
22 August 2026   Saturday  4th Saturday 
25 August 2026   Tuesday  Eid-e-Milad 
12 September 2026   Saturday  2nd Saturday 
14 September 2026    Monday  Ganesh Chaturthi   
26 September 2026   Saturday  4th Saturday 
2 October 2026  Friday  Gandhi Jayanti   
10 October 2026   Saturday  2nd Saturday/Mahalaya Amavasye 
19 October 2026   Monday  Maha Navami 
20 October 2026   Tuesday  Vijaya Dashami   
24 October 2026   Saturday  4th Saturday 
26 October 2026  Monday  Maharishi Valmiki’s Birthday 
1 November 2026  Sunday  Kannada Rajyothsava 
8 November 2026  Sunday  Diwali/ Naraka Chaturdashi
14 November 2026   Saturday  2nd Saturday 
27 November 2026   Friday  Kanakadasa Jayanti 
28 November 2026   Saturday  4th Saturday 
12 December 2026   Saturday  2nd Saturday 
25 December 2026   Friday  Christmas 
26 December 2026  Saturday  4th Saturday 

Important Days and Festivals in Karnataka

Karnataka’s holidays beautifully reflect its rich cultural heritage, blending traditional, religious, and historical significance. Here are some of the most important festivals celebrated across the state:

  • Ugadi marks the Kannada New Year and symbolizes new beginnings. Celebrated in March or April, it involves traditional rituals, festive meals, and cultural customs.
  • Ganesh Chaturthi is widely celebrated with great enthusiasm, featuring beautifully decorated idols, processions, and community gatherings.
  • Dasara (Vijayadashami) is one of Karnataka’s grandest festivals, especially in Mysuru, where it is celebrated over 10 days with royal processions and cultural events.
  • Kannada Rajyotsava, observed on November 1, celebrates the formation of the state with parades, cultural performances, and flag hoisting.
  • Independence Day and Republic Day are celebrated with patriotic fervor through ceremonies, parades, and cultural programs across the state.
  • Basava Jayanti honors the birth anniversary of Basavanna, with processions, prayers, and discussions on his teachings.
  • Makar Sankranti, a harvest festival, is celebrated with traditional dishes, kite flying, and joyful gatherings.
  • Ayudha Puja, part of the Dasara festivities, involves worshipping tools, vehicles, and equipment as a mark of respect.
  • Karaga Festival, one of Bengaluru’s oldest traditions, features a grand procession with a decorated earthen pot carried on the head.
  • Maha Shivaratri is observed with fasting, temple visits, and night-long prayers dedicated to Lord Shiva.

These festivals not only preserve traditions but also bring communities together in celebration.

Festivals Specific to Karnataka

  • Makar Sankranti is the first festival of the year and is celebrated on a fixed date, welcoming the harvest season.
  • Republic Day (January 26) commemorates the adoption of the Indian Constitution.
  • Kannada Rajyotsava (November 1) is marked by the distribution of Rajyotsava Awards and statewide celebrations.

Best Holiday Destinations in Karnataka

Karnataka offers a diverse range of travel destinations, from scenic hill stations to historical wonders:

  • Coorg (Madikeri): Known for its lush greenery, coffee plantations, and attractions like Abbey Falls and Raja’s Seat.
  • Mysuru (Mysore): Famous for the majestic Mysore Palace and its rich historical heritage.
  • Hampi: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire.
  • Gokarna: A peaceful coastal destination known for Om Beach, Kudle Beach, and the Mahabaleshwara Temple.
  • Badami: Renowned for its rock-cut cave temples and the scenic Agastya Lake.
  • Chikmagaluru: A paradise for nature lovers, known for coffee estates and Mullayanagiri Peak.
  • Hassan: Home to the intricate Hoysala temples of Belur and Halebidu, admired for their architecture.

FAQs on Karnataka Holidays

How can I check upcoming bank holidays in Karnataka?

You can refer to official holiday lists or check directly with your bank, as dates may vary each year.

Are banks closed during holidays?

Yes, bank branches remain closed, but online banking services continue to function.

Can I do online transactions on holidays?

Yes, digital banking services remain fully operational.

Do bank holidays include state-specific festivals?

Yes, both national and state-specific holidays are included.

Are bank holiday dates the same every year?

No, some dates change depending on the calendar and festivals.

Can I visit banks on holidays?

No, branches remain closed for in-person transactions.

Are bank holidays part of public holidays?

Yes, they are included, along with second and fourth Saturdays each month.

Do only banks observe these holidays?

Primarily banks, though some financial institutions may follow similar schedules.

Are there any exceptions during bank holidays?

Certain emergency services may operate under special provisions.

What are some key festivals in Karnataka?

Major festivals include Ugadi, Ganesh Chaturthi, Dasara, Kannada Rajyotsava, and Makar Sankranti, all reflecting the state’s vibrant culture and traditions.