As we step into the new year of 2026, one of the first things savvy financial planners check is the bank holidays January 2026 calendar. Why? Because unexpected closures can derail everything from salary credits and loan EMIs to urgent fund transfers and cheque deposits. This January is particularly tricky—it’s packed with major regional festivals like Lohri (January 13) and Makar Sankranti (January 14), both of which are public holidays in several states. But here’s the catch: **banks aren’t automatically closed nationwide on these days**. The decision rests with individual state governments and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). So, are banks closed on Lohri and Makar Sankranti? The answer is: it depends on where you live.
Table of Contents
- Understanding India’s Bank Holiday System
- Key Festivals in January 2026: Lohri and Makar Sankranti
- State-wise Bank Holidays for January 2026
- What to Do on a Bank Holiday
- Planning Ahead: Financial Tips for January 2026
- Conclusion: Stay Informed, Stay Prepared
- Sources
Understanding India’s Bank Holiday System
Unlike a national lockdown, bank holidays in India are not uniform across the country. The RBI issues a broad list of holidays under three categories: Gazetted Holidays, Restricted Holidays, and State-Specific Holidays . While all banks must close on Gazetted Holidays (like Republic Day), closures for festivals like Lohri or Pongal are at the discretion of the respective state government’s finance department.
This decentralized system means that while a bank in Punjab may be shut for Lohri, its branch in Maharashtra might operate as usual. Therefore, relying on a generic “national” holiday list can lead to costly mistakes.
Key Festivals in January 2026: Lohri and Makar Sankranti
January 13, 2026, is a Tuesday and marks Lohri, a vibrant Punjabi festival celebrating the winter solstice. The very next day, January 14 (Wednesday), is Makar Sankranti, known as Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Uttarayan in Gujarat, and Magh Bihu in Assam. These are among the most widely celebrated harvest festivals in India.
Given their cultural significance, many states declare them as public holidays. But again—this does not automatically mean a bank holiday. For instance, while Punjab and Haryana are almost certain to observe a bank closure on Lohri, states like Kerala or West Bengal likely will not.
Bank Holidays January 2026: State-wise Breakdown
Based on historical patterns and official announcements expected from state governments, here’s a reliable projection for key states:
- Punjab & Haryana: Banks expected to be CLOSED on January 13 (Lohri) and January 14 (Makar Sankranti).
- Delhi: Banks typically remain OPEN on both days, as they are not state-declared holidays.
- Tamil Nadu: Banks likely CLOSED on January 14 (Pongal Day 1) and possibly January 15 (Pongal Day 2).
- Gujarat: Banks expected to be CLOSED on January 14 (Uttarayan).
- Andhra Pradesh & Telangana: Banks likely CLOSED on January 14 (Sankranti).
- Karnataka: Banks may be CLOSED on January 14 (Sankranthi).
- Maharashtra: Banks generally remain OPEN; Makar Sankranti is not a major bank holiday here.
- West Bengal & Odisha: Banks usually remain OPEN on these dates.
Note: The final list will be officially published by the RBI in December 2025. Always verify with your local bank branch or the [INTERNAL_LINK:rbi-official-holiday-calendar] closer to the date.
What to Do on a Bank Holiday
Just because your physical branch is closed doesn’t mean your banking has to stop. Here’s how to stay on top of your finances:
- Use Mobile & Net Banking:** Almost all transactions—fund transfers (IMPS/NEFT/RTGS), bill payments, and balance checks—can be done digitally.
- ATMs are Your Friend:** Cash withdrawals and mini-statements are available 24/7.
- Schedule in Advance:** If you need a demand draft, cheque book, or in-person service, visit your branch a day before the holiday.
- Set Alerts:** Use SMS or app notifications for EMI due dates that fall on or near holidays to avoid late fees.
Planning Ahead: Financial Tips for January 2026
January is a critical month for financial housekeeping. With potential bank closures, consider these proactive steps:
- Clear Year-End Dues Early:** Don’t wait until the 13th or 14th to pay pending bills.
- Automate Investments:** Set up SIPs or recurring deposits to run on non-holiday dates.
- Check IFSC Codes:** If transferring money to someone in another state, confirm their bank’s holiday status to avoid processing delays.
Conclusion: Stay Informed, Stay Prepared
Navigating the bank holidays January 2026 doesn’t have to be stressful. By understanding the regional nature of closures around Lohri and Makar Sankranti, and leveraging digital banking tools, you can keep your financial life running smoothly. Bookmark this guide, share it with friends in different states, and always double-check with your bank a few days before any major transaction. A little planning today saves a lot of hassle tomorrow.