Complete List of Upcoming Long Weekends 2024 Holidays in India

Weekends usually whiff off too quickly in running errands and catching up with pals, but these special weekends of the year are much awaited as they come with an extra day off. Yes, long weekends are not ordinary but fun when people can plan a short, unwinding vacation with their family and friends. An extra day off is like a treat for all those who keep waiting for these little indulgences that refresh our minds. If you also want to make the most of these special Holidays, this blog will prove essential for you. We have compiled a complete list of long weekends in 2024 and weekend getaways worth exploring.

12 Famous Upcoming Long Weekends in 2024

The Indian calendar for 2024 is packed with 12 long weekends. Whether you're an avid traveller, a culture enthusiast, or simply seeking respite from the daily grind, the long weekends of 2024 offer the perfect opportunity to discover hidden treasures. Check out!

• Makar Sankranti/Pongal: 13, 14 and 15 January 2024 (Saturday, Sunday, Monday)
• Republic Day: 26, 27 and 28 January 2024 (Friday, Saturday, Sunday)
• Maha Shivaratri and Ugadi: 8, 9 and 10 March 2024 (Friday, Saturday, Sunday)
• Holi: 23, 24 and 25 March 2024 (Saturday, Sunday, Monday)
• Good Friday: 29, 30 and 31 March 2024 (Friday, Saturday, Sunday)
• Buddha Purnima: 23, 25 and 26 May 2024 (Thursday, Saturday, Sunday)
• Bakri Id/Eid ul-Adha: 15, 16, and 18 June 2024 (Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday)
• Independence Day: 15, 16, 17, and 18 August 2024 (Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday)
• Milad un-Nabi: 14, 15 and 16 September 2024 (Saturday, Sunday, Monday)
• Janmashtami: 26, 27, and 28 September 2024 (Thursday, Friday, Saturday)
• Diwali: 1, 2, and 3 November 2024 (Friday, Saturday, Sunday)
• Guru Nanak’s Birthday: 15, 16 and 17 November 2024 (Friday, Saturday, Sunday)

Long Weekend in January 2024

1. Makar Sankranti/Pongal

13, 14 and 15 January 2024 (Saturday, Sunday, Monday)

Celebrate the harvest festival in the royal city of Jaipur, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and delectable cuisine.

• Date: 13, 14, and 15 January 2024
• Days: Saturday, Sunday, Monday
• Leave to Take: 1 day
• Preferred Weekend Getaway: Jaipur, Rajasthan
• Average Cost: INR 10,000 - 15,000

Best Places to Celebrate Makar Sankranti in India

• Haridwar, Uttarakhand: Participate in Ganga Arti and bathe in the holy river.
• Amritsar, Punjab: Immerse yourself in the city's vibrant spirit.
• Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh: Bathe in the holy river and enjoy a kite flying competition.
• Kolkata, West Bengal: Experience the Ganga Sagar Mela, India's second-largest pilgrimage, and visit Kapil Muni Ashram.
• Ahmedabad, Gujarat: Join in the excitement of the biggest Kite Flying festival.

2. Republic Day

26, 27 and 28 January 2024 (Friday, Saturday, Sunday)

Explore the iconic landmarks of India's capital, Delhi, or visit the Taj Mahal in Agra to commemorate the nation's Republic Day.

• Date: 26, 27, and 28 January 2024
• Days: Friday, Saturday, Sunday
• Leave to Take: 0 days
• Preferred Weekend Getaway: Delhi or Agra
• Average Cost: INR 8,000 - 12,000

Best Places to Celebrate Republic Day in India

• New Delhi: Experience the grandeur of the iconic Republic Day parade.
• Wagah Border, Amritsar: Witness the impressive retreat ceremony.
• Ahmedabad, Gujarat: Explore the historical Sabarmati Ashram.
• Port Blair, Andaman & Nicobar Islands: Visit Cellular Jail, a symbol of India's freedom struggle.
• Bangalore: Attend the flag hoisting at Field Marshal Manekshaw Parade Ground.
• Shimla: Join in the state-level celebrations at Ridge Maidan.
• Mumbai: Enjoy the vibrant parade at Shivaji Park.

Long Weekend in March 2024

1. Maha Shivaratri and Ugadi

8, 9 and 10 March 2024 (Friday, Saturday, Sunday)

Seek spiritual solace in the serene surroundings of Rishikesh or explore the ancient ruins of Hampi during this festive weekend.

• Days: Friday, Saturday, Sunday
• Leave to Take: 0 days
• Preferred Weekend Getaway: Rishikesh, Uttarakhand or Hampi, Karnataka
• Average Cost: INR 7,000 - 12,000

Best Places to Celebrate Maha Shivaratri and Ugadi in India

• Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: Experience spiritual ceremonies on the ghats of the Ganges during Maha Shivaratri.
• Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh: Join in the worship at the ancient Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple.
• Rishikesh, Uttarakhand: Partake in the divine festivities along the banks of the river Ganges.
• Hyderabad, Telangana: Celebrate Ugadi with traditional festivities and taste the special Ugadi Pachadi.
• Bengaluru, Karnataka: Witness colourful processions and cultural events marking Ugadi in the city.
• Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh: Visit the famous Venkateswara Temple for special prayers during Ugadi.

2. Holi

23, 24 and 25 March 2024 (Saturday, Sunday, Monday)

Experience the vibrant colours of Holi in Vrindavani's spiritual ambience or enjoy beach parties in the picturesque state of Goa.

• Days: Saturday, Sunday, Monday
• Leave to Take: 0 days
• Preferred Weekend Getaway: Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh or Goa
• Average Cost: INR 8,000 - 15,000

Best Places to Celebrate Holi in India

• Mathura and Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh: Experience traditional Holi celebrations in the land of Krishna.
• Barsana, Uttar Pradesh: Witness the unique Lathmar Holi festivities.
• Jaipur, Rajasthan: Enjoy the royal Holi experience with elephants and cultural events.
• Udaipur, Rajasthan: Participate in the Holika Dahan ceremony with the royal family.
• Anandpur Sahib, Punjab: Celebrate Hola Mohalla with Sikh warriors showcasing martial skills.
• Shantiniketan, West Bengal: Join the cultural Holi celebrations inspired by Rabindranath Tagore.
• Goa: Revel in the fun-filled beach Holi parties and festivities.

3. Good Friday

29, 30, and 31 March 2024 (Friday, Saturday, Sunday)

Reflect and unwind amidst the lush tea gardens of Munnar or explore the French colonial charm of Puducherry.

• Date: 29, 30, and 31 March 2024
• Days: Friday, Saturday, Sunday
• Leave to Take: 0 days
• Preferred Weekend Getaway: Munnar, Kerala or Puducherry
• Average Cost: INR 8,000 - 13,000

Best Places to Celebrate Good Friday in India

• Goa: Attend solemn masses and processions in the historic churches.
• Kerala: Witness the rituals and prayers in the ancient Syrian Christian churches.
• Mumbai, Maharashtra: Join the Good Friday services at the city's numerous cathedrals.
• Chennai, Tamil Nadu: Experience the spiritual ambience in the San Thome Basilica.
• Shillong, Meghalaya: Participate in the religious observances in this predominantly Christian state.
• Puducherry: Observe the unique blend of Tamil and French traditions in Good Friday commemorations.
• Kolkata, West Bengal: Attend the special services in the colonial-era churches of the city.

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Long Weekend in May 2024

1. Buddha Purnima

23, 25, and 26 May 2024 (Thursday, Saturday, Sunday)

Commemorate Buddha's birth in the tranquil monasteries of Bihar, the breathtaking landscapes of Sikkim, or the mystical beauty of Leh-Ladakh.

• Days: Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday
• Leave to Take: 1 day
• Preferred Weekend Getaway: Bihar, Sikkim or Leh-Ladakh
• Average Cost: INR 15,000 - 25,000

Best Places to Celebrate Buddha Purnima in India

• Bodh Gaya, Bihar: Join the celebrations at the Mahabodhi Temple, where Buddha attained enlightenment.
• Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh: Participate in religious ceremonies at the place where Buddha delivered his first sermon.
• Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh: Witness Buddha Purnima rituals where Buddha attained Parinirvana.
• Lumbini, near the India-Nepal border: Experience the international Buddhist festivities in Buddha's birthplace.
• Leh, Ladakh: Attend the vibrant Hemis Festival, marked by lamas performing sacred dances.
• Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh: Engage in prayers and teachings at the Dalai Lama's residence.
• Rajgir, Bihar: Participate in the peaceful celebrations at the ancient Gridhakuta Hill, where Buddha preached.

Long Weekend in June 2024

1. Bakri Id/Eid ul-Adha

15, 16, and 18 June 2024 (Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday)

Embrace the festive spirit in the holy city of Ajmer or relax on the pristine beaches of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

• Days: Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday
• Leave to Take: 1 day
• Preferred Weekend Getaway: Ajmer, Rajasthan or Andaman and Nicobar Islands
• Average Cost: INR 12,000 - 20,000

Best Places to Celebrate Bakri Id/Eid ul-Adha in India

• Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh: Experience grand Eid celebrations and feast on the city's famous Mughlai cuisine.
• Hyderabad, Telangana: Join in the festivities with special prayers and the famous Hyderabadi biryani.
• Delhi: Attend Eid prayers at the historic Jama Masjid and savour the festive dishes in Old Delhi.
• Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir: Experience the serene beauty and communal prayers at the Hazratbal Shrine.
• Mumbai, Maharashtra: Enjoy the vibrant Eid atmosphere and visit the iconic Haji Ali Dargah.
• Kolkata, West Bengal: Participate in the communal Eid prayers and indulge in the city's unique culinary offerings.
• Malappuram, Kerala: Witness the cultural richness of Eid celebrations in one of Kerala's predominantly Muslim regions

Long Weekend in August 2024

1. Independence Day

15, 17, 18, and 19 August 2024 (Thursday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday)

Celebrate India's freedom in the cool climate of Shimla or experience the French-inspired charm of Pondicherry.

• Days: Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday
• Leave to Take: 1 day
• Preferred Weekend Getaway: Shimla, Himachal Pradesh or Pondicherry
• Average Cost: INR 10,000 - 18,000

Celebrate Independence Day in India

• New Delhi: Witness the grand national parade and flag hoisting at the Red Fort.
• Mumbai, Maharashtra: Join in the patriotic events and flag hoisting ceremonies across the city.
• Wagah Border, Punjab: Experience the special Beating Retreat ceremony at the India-Pakistan border.
• Bangalore, Karnataka: Attend flag hoisting and cultural events at the Field Marshal Manekshaw Parade Ground.
• Kolkata, West Bengal: Enjoy cultural programs and flag hoisting at historical sites.
• Ahmedabad, Gujarat: Participate in kite flying events symbolising freedom.
• Chennai, Tamil Nadu: Observe Independence Day celebrations with cultural performances and patriotic fervour.

Long Weekend in September 2024

1. Milad un-Nabi

14, 15, and 16 September 2024 (Saturday, Sunday, Monday)

Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of Lucknow or witness the grandeur of Mysore during this festive weekend.

• Days: Saturday, Sunday, Monday
• Leave to Take: 0 days
• Preferred Weekend Getaways: Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh or Mysuru, Karnataka
• Average Cost: INR 7,000 - 13,000

Best Places to Celebrate Milad un-Nabi in India

• Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh: Enjoy grand processions and feast on local delicacies.
• Hyderabad, Telangana: Witness the city's lights and decorations, and savor the special dishes.
• Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir: Join the special prayers and spiritual gatherings at Hazratbal Shrine.
• Mumbai, Maharashtra: Experience the festive spirit with colorful processions and community feasts.
• Delhi: Attend the religious gatherings and enjoy the decorated streets in Old Delhi.
• Kolkata, West Bengal: Participate in the city-wide celebrations with special events and food.
• Malappuram, Kerala: Immerse yourself in the cultural and religious festivities in this predominantly Muslim region.

2. Janmashtami

26, 28, and 29 September 2024 (Thursday, Saturday, Sunday)

Celebrate Lord Krishna's birth in the divine atmosphere of Mathura-Vrindavan or explore the regal beauty of Udaipur.

• Days: Thursday, Saturday, Sunday
• Leave to Take: 1 day
• Preferred Weekend Getaways: Mathura-Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh or Udaipur, Rajasthan
• Average Cost: INR 8,000 - 14,000

Celebrate Janmashtami in India

• Mathura, Uttar Pradesh: Visit Lord Krishna's birthplace for big celebrations and special temple events.
• Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh: Join in the fun and prayers in the town where Krishna grew up.
• Dwarka, Gujarat: See the grand ceremonies in the ancient city, Krishna's old kingdom.
• Mumbai, Maharashtra: Enjoy 'Dahi Handi' where people form towers to break pots high up.
• Udupi, Karnataka: Be part of special temple festivals and shows.
• Puri, Odisha: Watch unique temple rituals at the famous Jagannath Temple.
• Jaipur, Rajasthan: Experience the lively parades and events all over the city.

Read More : Festival of Janmashtami

Long Weekend in November 2024

1. Diwali/Deepavali

1, 2, and 3 November 2024 (Friday, Saturday, Sunday)

Witness the dazzling festival of lights in the spiritual city of Varanasi or embrace the grandeur of Amritsar during Diwali.

• Days: Friday, Saturday, Sunday
• Leave to Take: 1 day
• Preferred Weekend Getaways: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh or Amritsar, Punjab
• Average Cost: INR 10,000 - 16,000

Best Places to Celebrate Diwali in India

• Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: See the beautiful Ganga river lit up with lamps and enjoy the fireworks.
• Jaipur, Rajasthan: Admire the city's buildings all decorated with lights and take part in the festivities.
• Amritsar, Punjab: Visit the Golden Temple, which looks stunning with lights and decorations.
• Kolkata, West Bengal: Join in the Kali Puja celebrations and see the city's bright lights.
• Goa: Watch the big fireworks and enjoy the parties.
• Udaipur, Rajasthan: See the city's palaces lit up and enjoy the lake's reflection of the lights.
• Delhi: Explore the markets full of lights and Diwali decorations, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Read More : Festival of Diwali 

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2. Guru Nanak’s Birthday

15, 16, and 17 November 2024 (Friday, Saturday, Sunday)

Pay your respects during Guru Nanak's birthday celebrations in Amritsar or explore the spiritual significance of Patna.

• Days: Friday, Saturday, Sunday
• Leave to Take: 0 days
• Preferred Weekend Getaway: Golden Temple, Amritsar, Hemkund Sahib, Chamoli and Patna Sahib, Patna
• Average Cost: INR 7,000 - 12,000

Best Places to Celebrate Guru Nanak’s Birthday in India

• Amritsar, Punjab: Visit the Golden Temple, which is beautifully lit up and join in the special prayers.
• Nankana Sahib, near Lahore: Go to Guru Nanak's birthplace for big celebrations and religious ceremonies.
• Patiala, Punjab: Enjoy the colourful parades, singing, and feasting in the city's streets.
• Delhi: Visit the Gurudwaras in the city, especially Bangla Sahib, for prayers and to see the decorations.
• Chandigarh, Punjab: Join in the local celebrations with music and delicious community meals.
• Sultanpur Lodhi, Punjab: Take part in the religious events in the town where Guru Nanak spent many years.
• Kolkata, West Bengal: Experience the cultural and religious festivities with special programs in Gurudwaras.

Are you ready to mark your calendars for an exciting 2024 filled with long weekends and travel adventures? Imagine starting the year by celebrating Makar Sankranti in Jaipur's grandeur or soaking in the Republic Day spirit in Delhi. Each long weekend of 2024, from the spiritual solace of Maha Shivaratri in Rishikesh to the vibrant Holi festivities in Varanasi, presents a perfect opportunity to explore the diverse beauty of India.

List of Long Weekends 2024

So, 2024’s long weekend list is more than just a break, it's a chance to explore and enjoy various festivals, events and more!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Long Weekends in 2024

Q1: How many government holidays are there in 2024?
A1: The exact number of government holidays in 2024 may vary based on the country and specific regional observances.

Q2: What are the long holidays in January 2024?
A2: In January 2024, long holidays include Makar Sankranti/Pongal, falling on 13th, 14th, and 15th, creating an extended weekend.

Q3: How many long weekends are there in 2024 in India?
A3: The number of long weekends in India in 2024 depends on how traditional holidays align with weekends, typically varying each year.

Q4: What is a gazetted holiday?
A4: A gazetted holiday is an official public holiday recognized by the government. These are usually days of national significance.

Q5: Is a national holiday compulsory?
A5: In many countries, national holidays are observed as public holidays, but the compulsory nature of observance can vary based on local laws and business policies.

Q6: What are the best long weekend getaways in 2024?
A6: In 2024, great long weekend getaways include Jaipur during Makar Sankranti and Amritsar on Guru Nanak's Birthday, offering cultural richness.

Q7: How can I make the most of long weekends in 2024?
A7: To make the most of long weekends in 2024, plan and book early to explore various parts of India. There are about three long weekends: December 30 (Saturday), December 31 (New Year's Eve), and January 1 New Year (Sunday). You can consider taking a day off on December 29 or January 2. This creates a four-day span, perfect for a short trip of your choosing.

Q8: Are there budget-friendly options for long weekend trips in 2024?
A8: Yes, there are budget-friendly options like Rishikesh and Varanasi, offering affordable yet enjoyable travel experiences.

Q9: Can I find family-friendly destinations for long weekends in 2024?
A9: Family-friendly destinations for long weekends in 2024 include Shimla and Udaipur, offering activities and attractions suitable for all ages.

Q10: What are some unique long weekend ideas for 2024?
A10: If you're looking for special ways to spend long weekends in 2024, think about visiting these places: Jammu and Kashmir for beautiful views and cool weather, Madhya Pradesh to see Pench National Park, Udaipur for its amazing history, Kodaikanal for exciting trekking trails, Gulmarg for fun skiing, Kaziranga National Park in Assam to see wildlife, and Nashik to visit the Sula Vineyard.