Indian public holidays

Willsy

Morning all.

I'm going to India at the end of October (around the 23rd), returning mid December (around the 16th) and wondering if I need to account for any days when banks/trains/buses will not be runnning - not sure how things work over there - do things shut down on public/national holidays?

I think Diwali is 1st November (please correct me if I'm wrong) and so we're not planning to do any travelling on that day.

Can anyone give me any dates that I should be aware of?

Cheers
x

Nick-H

So far, I haven't experienced transport stopping for public holidays, but banks and money-changing places do.

ATMs are notorious for their godless ways*, though, and continue to work whatever. Most IMers seem to agree that ATMs is the best way to get your rupees in India anyway.

*I was wished a Very Happy Christmas by a Chennai ATM this year. Strange: it was July!

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lonelyaztec

There only about 13 to 15 public holidays in India for festivals and birthdays and death days of National heros...like Gandhiji and Nehru.

The banks may be closed, but the ATM's will work. There may be some bank branches that work all days in the year.

So, u don't have to worry.

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Digital Drifter

Almost all services run transport wise, maybe at a reduced rate. & since it's a holiday, ATMs do run out of cash /too/ because everyone thinks just like you do.

They're indeed godless.

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TREKorDIE

Transport services continue to run on holidays in india. They may stop only if any strike is called. Note: on holidays, commuter services, particularly, commuter trains, usually run in less no.

For banking: ATM is there, thats right. But ATMs may run out of money or may have technical problem. You may not be able to find another ATM nearby, everytime. My suggestion: Carry some cash always, at least enough for next 2days.

ENJOY

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cuteyv

Puja holidays and Diwali holidays fall during this period. Buses and trains will be crowded and getting tickets might be a bit tough unless you have planned long ahead. Banks are also closed during these holidays.

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