November 2026 has arrived with a generous stretch of school holidays for children across India. As families prepare for the festive sequence spanning Dhanteras, Diwali, Govardhan Puja, and Bhai Dooj, education departments across various states have mapped out holiday schedules that give students substantial time away from classes. Amid preparations for shopping, sweets, and family visits, parents and pupils are actively scanning academic schedules to plan their festive travel.
Diwali Falling on Sunday Balanced by Strategic Scheduling
The main day of Diwali in 2026 falls on Sunday, 8 November. While a major festival landing on a regular weekly holiday often raises concerns about losing a scheduled day off, authorities and education boards arranged the academic calendars to ensure students receive an extended holiday period. In states such as Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Bihar, closures continue beyond 8 November to allow families time to celebrate together.
Schedules for Govardhan Puja and Bhai Dooj
Celebrations continue right after Diwali with Govardhan Puja on 9 November 2026. Primary and basic education schools across Uttar Pradesh and several other northern regions have scheduled an official holiday for this occasion. Shortly after, on Wednesday, 11 November 2026, educational institutions will close again to observe Bhai Dooj and Chitragupta Jayanti. Even though schools in certain areas may operate on 10 November, the surrounding holidays create a light and celebratory week for families.
Varying Vacation Durations Across States
Because each state follows its own academic framework, the length of the holiday break differs significantly across the country. Durations span from four to five days up to full fortnight breaks
- Maharashtra: Schools in this state have been granted nearly continuous holidays stretching from 2 November to 14 November.
- Rajasthan: Educational institutions are observing an extensive mid-term vacation running from 4 November to 15 November, spanning 14 to 15 days.
- Himachal Pradesh: A dedicated 5-day holiday window has been designated around the Diwali period.
- Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Bihar: These states have mapped out holidays that keep schools closed across key dates after 8 November to accommodate local festivities.
Given that regional guidelines and individual school board directives can vary, parents and students are encouraged to review the official school notice board or academic calendar to confirm specific closure dates.
