As 2025 draws to a close, travel enthusiasts and corporate professionals already have their eyes set on the year ahead. The 2026 calendar promises to be
especially rewarding for those who like to maximise holidays with minimal leave. With several festivals and public holidays conveniently falling close to weekends, the year offers multiple chances to plan short vacations without exhausting annual leave. Early planning will be key to securing better flight deals and accommodation while avoiding last-minute expenses.
January 2026
January sets a relaxed tone for the year. New Year’s Day falls on a Thursday, making January 1 to January 4 a perfect long weekend if Friday is taken off. Later in the month, Vasant Panchami on January 23 aligns with the weekend, followed by Republic Day on Monday, January 26, creating a four-day break ideal for a quick getaway.
February 2026
In February, Mahashivratri on February 15 provides a mid-month pause, while the end of the month hints at another possible break as Holi preparations begin around February 28.
March 2026
March is one of the most travel-friendly months. Holi on March 3 creates a long weekend when combined with Saturday and Sunday. Eid al-Fitr follows between March 20 and March 22, while the period from March 26 to March 31, covering Ram Navami and Mahavir Jayanti, offers one of the longest holiday stretches of the year.
April 2026
April is comparatively quieter, though the Good Friday weekend from April 3 to April 5 offers a short breather.
May 2026
May brings a compact travel window around Buddha Purnima, making May 1 to May 3 suitable for a brief escape.
June 2026
June has limited options, with a notable break from June 26 to June 29 around Muharram.
July 2026
July offers a festive getaway opportunity from July 16 to July 19 during Rath Yatra, making it a good time to explore eastern India, particularly Odisha.
August 2026
August stands out as the most holiday-rich month. A long stretch from August 25 to August 30 combines Milad-un-Nabi, Onam, Raksha Bandhan and the weekend, making it ideal for family vacations.
September 2026
In September, Janmashtami allows a short break from September 4 to September 6, followed by another long weekend from September 12 to September 14 as Ganesh Chaturthi falls on a Monday.
October 2026
October continues the festive momentum with the Gandhi Jayanti weekend from October 2 to October 4 and Dussehra holidays from October 17 to October 20.
November 2026
November begins with Diwali on November 8, extending travel plans from November 6 to November 10, and ends with Guru Nanak Jayanti from November 21 to November 24.
December 2026
The year concludes in December with the Christmas weekend from December 25 to December 27. Overall, 2026 offers a well-spread holiday calendar, making it an excellent year for planning frequent, cost-effective short vacations with smart leave management.
