Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Sikkim is a small but culturally vibrant state in India, with a rich blend of traditions and festivals.
- Some major festivals observed as public holidays include Losar, Saga Dawa, Drukpa Tshechi, Pang Lhabsol, and Losoong.
- National holidays, including Republic Day, Independence Day, and Gandhi Jayanti, are also observed.
- Important Sikkim government holidays for 2026 are Maghe Sankranti, Losar, Republic Day, Good Friday, Independence Day, Diwali, Christmas, and other cultural and religious events.
- Organizations can use this schedule to manage employee leave, schedules, and operational planning efficiently.
List of National, Regional, and Public Holidays in Sikkim 2026
Sikkim’s calendar is filled with vibrant festivals and public holidays that reflect its rich cultural diversity and deep spiritual heritage. The following table highlights the major holidays and festivals observed in Sikkim during the year 2026.
| Sr. No. | Date (2026) | Day | Holiday Name | Holiday Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | January 01 | Thursday | New Year’s Day | Restricted / Optional |
| 2 | January 14 | Wednesday | Maghe Sankranti | Gazetted (State) |
| 3 | January 19 | Monday | Sonam Lhosar | Gazetted (State) |
| 4 | January 26 | Monday | Republic Day | Gazetted (National) |
| 5 | February 18 | Wednesday | Losar (Tibetan New Year) | Gazetted (State) |
| 6 | March 03 | Tuesday | Bhumchu Festival | Gazetted (State) |
| 7 | March 04 | Wednesday | Holi | Gazetted |
| 8 | Mar 21 | Saturday | Id-ul-Fitr | Gazetted |
| 9 | March 27 | Friday | Ram Navami (Chaite Dasain) | Gazetted |
| 10 | April 3 | Friday | Good Friday | Gazetted |
| 11 | April 14 | Tuesday | Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Jayanti | Gazetted |
| 12 | May 16 | Saturday | Sikkim State Day | Gazetted (State) |
| 13 | May 31 | Sunday | Saga Dawa | Gazetted (State) |
| 14 | July 13 | Monday | Bhanu Jayanti | Gazetted (State) |
| 15 | August 08 | Saturday | Tendong Lho Rum Faat | Gazetted (State) |
| 16 | Aug 15 | Saturday | Independence Day | Gazetted (National) |
| 17 | Sep 04 | Friday | Janmashtami | Gazetted |
| 18 | October 2 | Friday | Mahatma Gandhi’s Birthday | Gazetted (National) |
| 19 | Oct 19 | Monday | Durga Puja (Maha Ashtami) | Gazetted |
| 20 | October 20 | Tuesday | Durga Puja (Maha Navami) | Gazetted |
| 21 | October 21 | Wednesday | Durga Puja (Vijaya Dashami) | Gazetted |
| 22 | November 01 | Sunday | Lhabab Duchen | Gazetted (State) |
| 23 | November 9 | Monday | Diwali (Laxmi Puja) | Gazetted |
| 24 | December 9 | Wednesday | Losoong / Namsoong (Starts) | Gazetted (State) |
| 25 | December 25 | Friday | Christmas | Gazetted |
What are the Unique Festivals Specific to Sikkim?
Unique festivals specific to Sikkim reflect the diverse cultural heritage of its various communities, including the Lepchas, Bhutias, Tamangs, Mangars, Kirat Khambu Rais, Gurungs, and Nepalese Newars. Notable unique festivals are:
Sonam Lochar
An important festival of the Tamang community is celebrated in January-February with worship of different animals on consecutive days and cultural singing and dancing.
Barahimizong
Observed by the Mangar community to pay homage to their forefathers with rituals, cultural performances, and traditional food.
Sakewa
A significant festival of the Kirat Khambu Rai community, paying homage to Mother Earth with Bhumi Puja, community dances, and rituals.
Tamu Lochar
Celebrated by the Gurung community, marking their New Year on December 30 with family and community festivities.
Indra Jatra (Yenya)
The Biggest festival of the Nepalese “Newar” community, seeking blessings from Lord Indra, the god of rain, is celebrated with traditional five-day rituals.
Pang Lhabsol
Exclusive to Sikkim, honoring Mount Khangchendzonga, the guardian deity, blending Buddhist and Lepcha traditions with masked dances and rituals.
Teyongsi Sirijunga Sawan Tongnam
Celebrated by the Limbu community to honor their leader Sirijunga with cultural performances and traditional music.
These festivals showcase Sikkim’s rich tapestry of ethnic and religious traditions, featuring unique rituals, dances, and community celebrations that are not commonly found outside the state.
Also, Check Holiday Lists for Other States in India:
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Public Holidays Will Sikkim Government Employees have in 2026?
Sikkim government employees will have approximately 25-27 public holidays in 2026, including the second and fourth Saturdays of the year. The exact number may vary slightly based on the final official gazette.
Are there Bank Holidays besides Public Holidays in Sikkim?
Yes, there are bank holidays in addition to public holidays in Sikkim.
When is State Day Celebrated in Sikkim, and What is Its Significance?
State Day in Sikkim is celebrated annually on May 16. The significance of this day lies in commemorating Sikkim’s transition from a Himalayan kingdom to a full‑fledged democratic state in the Indian Union, a milestone in its political and cultural history.
Can Employees Avail Compensatory Leave if They Work on a Holiday?
Yes, employees can avail compensatory leave if they work on a holiday.
Do Different Districts in Sikkim have Additional Local Holidays?
Different districts in Sikkim do not typically observe additional local holidays beyond the general list of state-wide public holidays.
Which Holidays Commemorate Sikkim’s History and Culture?
Holidays like Sikkim State Day, Losar, Saga Dawa, Pang Lhabsol, Bhutia-Lepcha New Year, and Tendong Lho Rum Faat celebrate Sikkim’s history and culture.
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