Holidays in October 2024

October is one of the best months to chalk out a vacation without having to take many days off from your work. October has various regional, national and holidays. Let us look at the list of holidays that fall in October 2024.

Here is a list of gazetted, restricted, and regional holidays in October 2024:

Here are the bank holidays during October 2024 as notified by the Reserve Bank of India:

• Gandhi Jayanti 

The entire nation celebrates 2nd October as a national holiday to commemorate the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. India will celebrate the 155th birth anniversary of the father of the nation in 2024.

• Mahalaya

Mahalaya, literally ‘The Great Abode’, is a Hindu festival celebrated with great devotion in West Bengal and other parts of the country. As per the faith, Goddess Durga begins her journey to descend on Earth for Durga Puja on this auspicious day.

• Durga Puja (Maha Saptami/Mahaashtami/Mahanavami)

These days mark the last three days of the Sharad Navratri. These days fall on the seventh, eighth, and night days of the Sharad month of the Hindu calendar. People worship various forms of ‘Shakti’ to mark the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. 

• Dussehra (Vijayadashami)

Dussehra, also called the Vijayadashami, falls on the tenth day of the Sharad month of the Hindu Calendar. This day commemorates the victory of Lord Ram in a fierce battle against the demon Ravan.  

• Maharshi Valmiki Jayanti

Many states celebrate the birth anniversary of Maharshi Valmiki, the author of the epic Ramayana, who is revered as Adi Kavi, on Ashwin Purnima. 

• Kati Bihu

Also called Kongali Bihu, Assamese people celebrate this festival to mark the relocation of paddy saplings. 

• Karaka Chaturthi (Karva Chauth)

Married women across North India celebrate Karaka Chaturthi on the full moon day of the Krishna Paksha of the Kartik month of the Hindu Calendar. Popularly known as Karva Chauth, married women mark this festival by fasting from dawn to the moonrise.

• Accession Day

Since 2020, the northernmost state of Jammu and Kashmir has celebrated Accession Day as a public holiday. On October 26, 1947, former Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir, Hari Singh, signed the Instrument of Accession to join the Republic of India.

• Diwali (Deepawali)

Diwali, also called the festival of lights, falls on the Amavasya date of the month of Kartik as per the Hindu calendar. This day marks the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile.

• Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Jayanti

The State of Gujarat celebrates October 31 as the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the first Deputy Prime Minister of our country. The entire nation celebrates this as the National Unity Day to commemorate Sardar Patel’s efforts in building a unified India after independence. 

October is a fantastic time to visit India, as the weather begins to cool down after the monsoon season and many regions are particularly pleasant. Here are some top destinations to consider:

 

1. Rajasthan

• Jaipur: Known as the "Pink City," Jaipur's forts, palaces, and vibrant markets are a major draw.
• Udaipur: Famous for its stunning lakes and romantic ambiance, Udaipur is perfect for a scenic getaway.
• Jaisalmer: Experience the golden city’s desert charm and majestic forts.

 

2. Himachal Pradesh

• Shimla: The capital city offers beautiful landscapes, pleasant weather, and colonial architecture.
• Manali: Ideal for adventure enthusiasts and those looking to enjoy the serene beauty of the Himalayas.

 

3. Uttarakhand

• Rishikesh: A hub for yoga, adventure sports, and spiritual retreats, it’s also a gateway to the Himalayas.
• Nainital: This charming hill station, with its beautiful lake and pleasant climate, is great for a relaxing break.

 

4. Kerala

• Munnar: This tea plantation town offers lush green landscapes and cool temperatures.
• Alleppey: Explore the backwaters and enjoy a houseboat stay amidst scenic beauty.

 

5. Goa

• North Goa: Known for its vibrant beaches, nightlife, and markets.
• South Goa: Offers a more relaxed vibe with pristine beaches and tranquil surroundings.

 

6. Varanasi

• This ancient city on the banks of the Ganges is a cultural and spiritual hub, particularly lively during October as it prepares for various festivals.

 

7. Mumbai

• Experience the vibrant city life, visit historic sites like the Gateway of India, and enjoy the city’s festivals and street food.

 

8. Darjeeling

• Known as the "Queen of the Hills," this hill station offers stunning views of the Himalayas and a charming colonial atmosphere.

 

9. Pondicherry

• This coastal town with French colonial architecture and beautiful beaches is perfect for a laid-back retreat.

 

Each of these destinations has its unique charm and can provide a different experience depending on your interests, whether it’s exploring historical sites, enjoying natural beauty, or diving into cultural experiences.

Here is the list of long weekends in October 2024 when you can plan for a relaxing vacation:

10th to 13th October

• 10 October (Thursday) - Durga Puja (Maha Saptami)

• 11 October (Friday) - Mahaashtami/ Mahanavami

• 12 October (Saturday) - Dussehra/ Vijayadashami /Durga Puja (Ayudha Puja)
• 13 October (Sunday)

 

17th to 20th October

• 17 October (Thursday) - Maharshi Valmiki Jayanti/Kati Bihu

• 18 October (Friday) - Take a day off

• 19 October (Saturday)

• 20 October (Sunday) - Karaka Chaturthi (Karva Chauth)