Long Weekends in India 2026 for Your Perfect Holiday
The long weekends in 2026 are filled with exciting travel possibilities! With smart planning, you can transform public holidays into unforgettable mini getaways and embark on thrilling new adventures.
Whether you’re drawn to the rhythm of music, dance, and dazzling street carnivals or escape into the serene embrace of nature, there’s something for every kind of traveler. From quick road trips to nearby hill stations, to extended escapes at beaches or even international city breaks, the year ahead offers endless opportunities.
This guide is designed to help you plan better with the upcoming long weekends in 2026. Maximize your time off, align your holidays with the calendar, and craft flawless journeys that leave you with lasting memories.
Table Of Content
- List of Long Weekends in 2026
- Long Weekends in January
- Long Weekends in February
- Long Weekends in March
- Long Weekends in April
- Long Weekends in May
- Long Weekends in August
- Long Weekends in September
- Long Weekends in October
- Long Weekends in November
- Long Weekends in December
- Frequently Asked Questions About Long Weekends 2026
List of Long Weekends in 2026
| Month | Holiday | Date & Day | Leave Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | New Year | Jan 1 (Thu) + Jan 2 (Fri, take leave) + Jan 3–4 (Weekend) | Jan 2 (Fri) |
| January | Sankranti/Pongal | Jan 14 (Wed) + Jan 15–16 (Thu–Fri, take leave) + Jan 17–18 (Weekend) | Jan 15–16 (Thu–Fri) |
| February | Valentine’s Weekend | Feb 14 (Sat) + Feb 15 (Sun) + Feb 16 (Mon, take leave) | 16 (Mon) |
| March | Holi | Mar 6 (Fri) + Mar 7–8 (Weekend) | None |
| April | Good Friday | Apr 3 (Fri) + Apr 4–5 (Weekend) | None |
| May | Labour Day | May 1 (Fri)+ May 2–3 (Weekend) | None |
| August | Independence Day | Aug 15 (Sat) + Aug 16 (Sun) + Aug 17 (Mon, take leave) | Aug 17 (Mon) |
| September | Ganesh Chaturthi | 11 Sep (Fri), 12 Sep (Sat), 13 Sep (Sun) | None |
| September | Milad‑un‑Nabi | 26 Sep (Sat), 27 Sep (Sun), 28 Sep (Mon) | None |
| October | Dussehra | 18 Oct (Sun), 19 Oct (Mon), 20 Oct (Tue) | 19 Oct (Mon) |
| November | Diwali | 7 Nov (Sat), 8 Nov (Sun), 9 Nov (Mon) | None |
| December | Christmas | 25 Dec (Fri), 26 Dec (Sat), 27 Dec (Sun) | None |
| December | New Year | 31 Dec (Thu),01 Jan(Fri),02 Jan(Sat),03 Jan (sun) | 31 Dec (Thu) |
September 2026 – Long Weekend Calendar
It’s the wonderful season , September is the perfect month to plan a short escape. Explore the famous gardens of Srinagar and experience beautiful bliss in the Kashmir Valley. If you haven’t yet explored the lush tea plantations of Munnar,this is the time to discover this charming hill town. Or head to a world heritage site like Ziro Valley in Arunachal Pradesh for a unique cultural and natural experience.
So what are you waiting for?
Long Weekend 1: Friday, September 11 – Sunday, September 13
- Friday, September 11 – Ganesh Chaturthi (Holiday)
- Saturday, September 12
- Sunday, September 13
Long Weekend 2: Saturday, September 26 – Monday, September 28
- Saturday, September 26
- Sunday, September 27
- Monday, September 28 – Milad‑un‑Nabi (Holiday)
October 2026 – Long Weekend Calender
The blue city of Jodhpur is calling you in October. What more could you wish for than your next long weekend in India to plan this visit? If you are a mountain person, then the place known as the ‘big pass’, the gorgeous town of Lachen in Sikkim will be your perfect weekend getaway. A peaceful time in the monasteries of Bir Billing or the soothing beaches of Pondicherry — what’s it going to be for you? Plan your October trip according to these dates.
Long Weekend : Sunday, October 18 – Tuesday, October 20
- Sunday, October 18
- Monday, October 19
- Tuesday, October 20 – Dussehra (Holiday)
November 2026 – Long Weekend Travel plans
Celebrating the beginning of the winter season with several festivals this month is amazing , but why not turn it into a travel opportunity? The best place to visit in November is Udaipur, with its shimmering lakes, palaces, and cultural charm. Again, if you would like to go up the hill you surely cannot go wrong with the renowned hills and temples of Hampi, and if you’re looking for something different, exploring Tarkarli’s beaches or the wilderness of the Sundarbans will give you memories that last a lifetime.
Long Weekend: Saturday, November 7 – Monday, November 9
- Saturday, November 7
- Sunday, November 8
- Monday, November 9 – Diwali (Gazetted Holiday)
Extended Festive Break: Tuesday, November 10 – Wednesday, November 11
- Tuesday, November 10 – Govardhan Puja
- Wednesday, November 11 – Bhai Dooj
December 2026 – Long Weekend Plans
An electrifying festival in Goa or the stunning Mysore Palace — which one will be your favourite spot this December? Christmas vibes can be felt throughout the country, but the best ones sparkle in the snowy Manali hills with your loved ones. And if you are not in the mood for beaches or mountains? Then Jodhpur’s glorious palaces might be just the thing for you this month.
Long Weekend 1: Friday, December 25 – Sunday, December 27
- Friday, December 25 – Christmas (Holiday)
- Saturday, December 26
- Sunday, December 27
Long Weekend 2: Thursday, December 31 – Sunday, January 3
- Thursday, December 31 – Take the day off
- Friday, January 1 – New Year’s (Holiday)
- Saturday, January 2
- Sunday, January 3
When a holiday is on the way, we bet you can’t resist choosing from the top places to explore this year! What are you waiting for? Get ready to make the best of this year with your loved ones, or plan a solo trip for some soothing, quiet time alone. Travelling to these places might just be what you need in 2026 Happy Journey!
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FAQs About Long Weekends 2026
What are the long weekends in 2026 in India?
In 2026, India will have several long weekends thanks to national and public holidays falling on Fridays, Mondays, or close to weekends. Some of the notable ones are:
- September 11–13 – Ganesh Chaturthi weekend (Fri–Sun)
- September 26–28 – Milad‑un‑Nabi weekend (Sat–Mon)
- October 18–20 – Dussehra weekend (Sun–Tue)
- November 7–9 – Diwali weekend (Sat–Mon)
- December 25–27 – Christmas weekend (Fri–Sun)
- December 31–Jan 3 – New Year’s extended weekend (Thu–Sun)
(Regional holidays may add more options depending on your state.)
Which are the best weekend getaways for long weekends in India?
Some of the best weekend getaways for long weekends in 2026 include:
- Agra – Taj Mahal and Mughal heritage
- Jaipur – Forts, palaces, and vibrant bazaars
- Rishikesh – Adventure sports and spiritual retreats
- Goa – Beaches, nightlife, and festivals
- Shimla & Manali – Snowy hill station vibes
- Coorg – Coffee plantations and scenic landscapes
- Udaipur – Royal palaces and lakes
What are the top destinations to visit during long weekends in 2026?
Some top destinations to visit during long weekends in 2026 are:
- Kashmir – Serene landscapes, Dal Lake, and snow activities
- Leh‑Ladakh – Biking adventures and high‑altitude beauty
- Kerala – Backwaters, beaches, and hill stations
- Sikkim – Nature, monasteries, and adventure trekking
- Ooty & Coonoor – Peaceful hill station escapes
- Rajasthan – Culture, forts, palaces, and desert charm
How can I plan a short trip during a long weekend?
To plan a short trip during a long weekend:
- Pick nearby destinations – Choose places accessible by road, train, or short flights.
- Plan early – Book hotels and tickets in advance to avoid festive rush.
- Pack light – Carry essentials only, with weather‑ready clothing.
- Optimize your time – Focus on must‑see attractions and experiences.
Are there any special events or festivals during long weekends in 2026?
Yes, several festivals align with long weekends in 2026:
- Ganesh Chaturthi (Sept 11) – Celebrations in Maharashtra and Goa.
- Dussehra (Oct 20) – Cultural festivities across India.
- Diwali (Nov 9) – Family gatherings, lights, and fireworks.
- Christmas (Dec 25) – Festive vibes nationwide.
- New Year’s (Jan 1, 2027) – Extended celebrations from Dec 31.
What are some budget‑friendly destinations for long weekends in 2026?
Some budget‑friendly destinations for long weekends include:
- Agra – Taj Mahal and affordable stays.
- Pondicherry – Coastal retreat with French charm.
- Coorg – Homestays amidst coffee plantations.
- Gokarna – Peaceful beaches, less crowded than Goa.
- Darjeeling – Tea gardens and scenic hill station vibes.
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