Holiday List in Sikkim 2026

In Sikkim’s holiday calendar, some dates are from the Constitution, some from the Buddhist monasteries, which have regional cultural influence, as well as others from older traditions that are tied to land, weather, and those that have been passed on through generations. You notice it early in the year, when Losar resets Buddhist households while government offices continue to run on the Gregorian tick of the clock.

What makes Sikkim distinct is not the number of holidays but how relevant each one is where it belongs. Buddhist observances are not just symbolic sprinkles, but are sincerely marked by prayer flags, monastery gatherings, and observance across towns that slow life down. Hindu festivals are observed too.

There’s also a constraint. Sikkim does not flood its calendar with region-specific dates the way some larger states do. Instead, it recognises a small, deliberate set of festivals that reflect the state’s demographic reality. The result is a calendar that feels intentional and purposeful.

The list below reflects commonly observed and institutionally followed holidays in Sikkim, aligned with standard calendar calculations used by the state assembly.

List of National, Public, and Regional Holidays in Sikkim for 2026

Buddhist festival dates follow the lunar calendar and align with commonly accepted observance in 2026.

How Holidays Function in Sikkim

State government offices closely follow this list. Buddhist holidays like Losar and Saga Dawa are known beyond just the “regional” moniker attached to them. Schools, businesses, and public transport are affected despite the non-obligations for closure.

Private companies tend to observe major holidays as well as some regional festivals that depend on the mix of employees. Banks tend to follow RBI notifications that include, but do not enforce, major holidays as observed within the state.

Also Read: Holiday List in Punjab 2026

FAQs

1. Why does Sikkim have fewer regional holidays than some states?

The state only focuses on those occasions that have a broad participation amongst its demographic. Many observances remain cultural without becoming official holidays.

2. Are Buddhist holidays treated differently from religious holidays elsewhere?

Buddhist festivals in Sikkim are central to public life, not peripheral and hence are treated differently.

3. Do all districts observe Losar the same way?

Yes, they do, although the intensity of observance may vary by community and monastery across different districts.

4. Are private companies required to observe all these holidays?

Private employers generally ask their HR to set their own calendars, though national holidays are almost always adhered to.

5. Do festival dates change every year?

Yes. Lunar-based festivals shift annually, while national holidays remain fixed.