February 2026 might seem far off—but if you’re planning any major financial transactions, it’s never too early to check the calendar. While most of us remember weekends, it’s the regional bank holidays that often catch people by surprise. And in India, where festivals and state celebrations vary wildly from one corner to another, knowing when your local branch is shut can save you hours of frustration.
Good news? Digital banking services like UPI, net banking, and mobile apps remain fully operational—even on official bank holidays in February 2026. But if you need to submit physical documents, deposit cash, or speak with a loan officer in person, timing is everything.
Table of Contents
- Key Bank Holidays in February 2026
- State-Wise Closure Details
- Don’t Forget: Second & Fourth Saturdays Are Always Closed
- Digital Banking: Your Lifeline on Holidays
- How to Plan Your Financial Tasks Around Closures
- Conclusion: Stay Ahead, Stay Informed
- Sources
Key Bank Holidays in February 2026
According to the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) official holiday calendar, banks across India will observe a mix of national, regional, and festive closures in February 2026. While most states operate normally, three key regions will see full-day shutdowns due to important cultural events:
- February 18, 2026 (Wednesday): Losar (Tibetan New Year) – Sikkim
- February 19, 2026 (Thursday): Shivaji Jayanti – Maharashtra
- February 20, 2026 (Friday): Statehood Day – Mizoram & Arunachal Pradesh
These are not optional closures—they’re mandatory under the Negotiable Instruments Act, meaning all public and private sector banks, including SBI, HDFC, ICICI, and Axis, will remain shut in these states on the respective days.
State-Wise Closure Details
Sikkim: Losar Celebrations (Feb 18)
Losar, the Tibetan Buddhist New Year, is one of Sikkim’s most vibrant festivals. Marked by prayer flags, monastery rituals, and community feasts, it’s a gazetted holiday across the state. Banks in Gangtok, Namchi, and Pelling will be closed.
Maharashtra: Shivaji Jayanti (Feb 19)
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s birth anniversary is a major event in Maharashtra. Government offices, schools, and banks shut statewide—from Mumbai and Pune to Nagpur and Nashik. Expect heavy traffic and public gatherings.
Mizoram & Arunachal Pradesh: Statehood Day (Feb 20)
Both states celebrate their admission into the Indian Union on this day. In Aizawl and Itanagar, official functions are held, and all financial institutions observe a full holiday.
Note: Neighboring states like Assam, Nagaland, or West Bengal will **not** observe these holidays unless locally declared—which, as of now, they haven’t.
Don’t Forget: Second & Fourth Saturdays Are Always Closed
Beyond regional festivals, remember that Indian banks follow a standard weekend policy:
- Every Sunday – Closed nationwide
- Second Saturday (Feb 14, 2026) – Closed
- Fourth Saturday (Feb 28, 2026) – Closed
This means even if there’s no festival, your local branch won’t be open on these dates. First and third Saturdays (Feb 7 and Feb 21) remain working days—perfect for catching up on banking tasks.
Digital Banking: Your Lifeline on Holidays
Here’s the silver lining: digital banking never sleeps. On all bank holidays in February 2026, you can still:
- Transfer money via UPI (PhonePe, Google Pay, BHIM)
- Pay bills (electricity, water, credit cards)
- Check balances and download statements
- Apply for new accounts or loans (preliminary steps)
For more on maximizing digital tools, see our guide on [INTERNAL_LINK:digital-banking-tips-for-indian-users].
How to Plan Your Financial Tasks Around Closures
To avoid last-minute stress:
- Mark your calendar: Add Feb 14, 18, 19, 20, and 28 as “no-bank” days.
- Visit early in the week: If you’re in Maharashtra, go before Feb 19.
- Use ATMs wisely: Withdraw cash a day before holidays—some rural ATMs may run low.
- Set up auto-debits: For recurring payments, automate them to avoid missed deadlines.
Conclusion: Stay Ahead, Stay Informed
Knowing the bank holidays in February 2026 isn’t just about convenience—it’s about financial control. Whether you’re a small business owner in Gangtok, a student in Pune, or a retiree in Aizawl, a little planning goes a long way. And with digital banking at your fingertips, even a closed branch doesn’t mean your finances have to stall.
Sources
- Times of India: Bank holidays in February 2026: When and where will banks remain closed – https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/bank-holidays-in-february-2026-when-and-where-will-banks-remain-closed-check-state-wise-list/articleshow/127815757.cms
- Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Holiday Calendar Guidelines – https://www.rbi.org.in
- Ministry of Home Affairs – List of Gazetted Holidays by State