Kerala holidays in 2026 include 17 mandatory public holidays and up to 5 optional holidays that every employer must grant. The Kerala Shops and Establishments Act requires all commercial establishments to observe these holidays and provide paid leave.
Kerala has a unique demographic profile with significant Hindu, Muslim, and Christian populations. This means the holiday calendar covers festivals from all three major religions more evenly than most Indian states.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Consult an employment lawyer for guidance specific to your organisation.
Key Takeaways
- Kerala observes 17 mandatory public holidays and 5 optional holidays in 2026
- Onam and Vishu are Kerala-specific festivals significant to employers
- Christmas is widely observed due to Kerala’s large Christian population
- Employers must grant at least 18 paid holidays per year
- Establishments must display the holiday list at the workplace
Mandatory Public Holidays in Kerala 2026
| Holiday | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | 1 January | Thursday |
| Republic Day | 26 January | Monday |
| Maha Shivaratri | 15 February | Sunday |
| Holi | 10 March | Tuesday |
| Good Friday | 3 April | Friday |
| Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Jayanti | 14 April | Tuesday |
| Vishu | 14 April | Tuesday |
| Buddha Purnima | 1 May | Friday |
| Eid-ul-Fitr | 21 March | Saturday |
| Eid-ul-Adha | 28 May | Thursday |
| Independence Day | 15 August | Saturday |
| Onam | 27 August | Thursday |
| Gandhi Jayanti | 2 October | Friday |
| Dussehra | 20 October | Tuesday |
| Diwali | 13 November | Friday |
| Guru Nanak Jayanti | 3 November | Tuesday |
| Christmas Day | 25 December | Friday |
Note: Onam is based on the Malayalam calendar and the exact date may vary. Eid dates are subject to moon sighting.
Optional Holidays in Kerala 2026
| Holiday | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| Milad-i-Sharif | 5 September | Saturday |
| Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti | 2 October | Friday |
| Christmas Eve | 24 December | Thursday |
| New Year’s Eve | 31 December | Thursday |
What the Law Requires
Kerala Shops and Establishments Act
- 18 paid holidays per year, including national holidays
- Display of the holiday calendar at a visible location
- Weekly off in addition to public holidays
- Payment of wages on all public holidays
Three Non-Negotiable National Holidays
- Republic Day (26 January)
- Independence Day (15 August)
- Gandhi Jayanti (2 October)
Kerala-Specific Holidays
Onam is the most significant festival in Kerala, celebrated across all communities. Most businesses close for 2-3 days during Onam. The festival falls in August-September and is the state’s biggest commercial holiday.
Vishu (14 April) marks the Malayalam New Year. While not as commercially significant as Onam, it’s widely observed. Employers typically grant leave on this day.
Kerala’s Christian community also observes Easter and Christmas widely. While Good Friday is a national holiday, many businesses also close on Easter Saturday.
Paying Employees on Public Holidays
Holiday on a Working Day
Grant paid leave at the ordinary rate of pay, or pay double wages if the employee works.
Holiday on a Weekly Off
Provide a substitute holiday on another working day within the month.
Working on a Public Holiday
With written consent, employees may work but must receive double wages or a substitute holiday.
Record-Keeping Requirements
Maintain:
- Annual holiday calendar
- Employee leave register
- Double wages payment records
- Consent forms for working on holidays
Keep records for at least three years.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Fine up to ₹5,000 for first violation
- Fine up to ₹10,000 for repeat violations
- Imprisonment up to 3 months for serious breaches
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Onam mandatory for all employers in Kerala?
Yes. Onam is a gazetted public holiday in Kerala. Private establishments must observe it. If employees work on Onam, they must receive double wages or a substitute holiday.
Do Christian employees get additional holidays beyond Christmas?
The Shops and Establishments Act grants the same holidays to all employees. However, you can grant additional holidays as part of your company policy. Good Friday and Christmas Day are mandatory for all establishments.
What if Onam falls on a weekend?
If Onam falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the state government typically notifies a substitute holiday. Check the annual notification for the exact date.
Managing Kerala’s diverse holiday calendar? Leave Balance auto-applies state-specific holidays including Onam and Vishu, manages optional holiday requests, and keeps your compliance records organised.