Raksha Bandhan is one of India’s most cherished festivals, celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters with rituals, sweets, and heartfelt moments. In 2025, this festival aligns perfectly with the Holiday Calendar 2025, offering not only a day of celebration but also the chance to plan a Raksha Bandhan long weekend.
Whether you’re looking to spend the day at home with family or explore a short getaway, here’s a complete guide to the date, government holiday status, and how to make the most of the long weekend.
Date and Significance of Raksha Bandhan 2025
Raksha Bandhan in 2025 will be celebrated on Friday, August 8, 2025. Traditionally observed on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Hindu month of Shravan, the festival involves sisters tying a rakhi (decorative thread) on their brothers’ wrists as a symbol of love and protection. In return, brothers pledge to protect their sisters and often give gifts.
While the customs vary across regions, the essence remains the same—strengthening the bond of affection between siblings. In many cities, markets are already abuzz a week before the festival with stalls selling colourful rakhis, sweets, and gift hampers.
Raksha Bandhan in the Govt Holiday Calendar 2025
According to the Holiday Calendar 2025 issued by most state governments, Raksha Bandhan is listed as a restricted holiday in some states and a gazetted holiday in others.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
-
Full Public Holiday: States like Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttarakhand traditionally declare a full holiday, ensuring schools, banks, and government offices remain closed.
-
Restricted Holiday: In states such as Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, Raksha Bandhan may be a restricted holiday, meaning employees can opt to take the day off from their quota of restricted holidays.
-
Bank Holiday Status: As per the Reserve Bank of India’s regional list, banks will remain closed in states where it is a public holiday, but will operate normally elsewhere.
This variation means it’s important to check the local government notification to confirm if your region gets an official day off.
How Raksha Bandhan Creates a Long Weekend in 2025
One of the highlights of Raksha Bandhan in 2025 is that it falls on a Friday. This naturally creates a Raksha Bandhan long weekend if you combine it with Saturday and Sunday. For those willing to take an extra day off, the stretch could become even longer:
Example:
-
Friday, Aug 8: Raksha Bandhan (holiday in many states)
-
Saturday, Aug 9: Weekend
-
Sunday, Aug 10: Weekend
-
Monday, Aug 11: Optional leave for an extended break
This opens up perfect opportunities for quick family trips, hill station getaways, or simply more time to enjoy festive gatherings without the rush of weekday responsibilities.
Travel & Celebration Ideas for the Long Weekend
If you’re planning to use the Holiday Calendar 2025 for a short trip during Raksha Bandhan, consider destinations that blend cultural richness with relaxation:
-
Hill Stations: Shimla, Mussoorie, or Ooty for a refreshing mountain escape.
-
Heritage Cities: Jaipur, Udaipur, or Varanasi to soak in tradition and spirituality.
-
Beach Retreats: Goa or Gokarna for a laid-back celebration.
For those staying home, you can make the weekend special with:
-
Hosting a family lunch or dinner
-
Organizing a sibling storytelling night to share childhood memories
-
DIY rakhi-making activities with kids
Other Notable August Holidays in 2025
August 2025 is a festive month with several public holidays clustered together, making it an ideal time for mini-vacations:
-
Independence Day: Friday, August 15 (another long weekend opportunity)
-
Janmashtami: Sunday, August 17 (celebrated widely in North India)
-
Muharram: Thursday, August 28 (possible long weekend with leave on Aug 29)
By aligning these with the Holiday Calendar 2025, you can strategically plan multiple short breaks.
FAQs on Raksha Bandhan 2025 and Holiday Calendar
Q1. Is Raksha Bandhan 2025 a national holiday?
Not in all states. It is a gazetted holiday in some regions and a restricted holiday in others.
Q2. Does Raksha Bandhan 2025 fall on a weekend?
No, it falls on a Friday, but it leads into a long weekend.
Q3. Will banks remain closed on Raksha Bandhan 2025?
Banks will be closed in states where it is a public holiday. Check your state’s RBI holiday list for confirmation.
Q4. Can I combine Raksha Bandhan with other August holidays for longer vacations?
Yes, August 2025 offers multiple clustered holidays, making it possible to plan several extended breaks.
Q5. What is the best way to celebrate the Raksha Bandhan long weekend?
Depending on your preference—travel to a nearby getaway, plan a cultural trip, or spend quality time with family at home.
click here to learn more