The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced 11 bank holidays in March 2026, covering national observances and regional festivals. Major closures include Holi (March 3–4), Eid-ul-Fitr (March 20–21), and Ram Navami (March 26). Banks will also shut on the second and fourth Saturdays, while digital services remain active.
As per the RBI calendar, March 2026 will see extensive bank closures across India due to festivals and regional observances. Customers are advised to plan transactions like cash deposits, cheque clearances, and branch visits in advance to avoid inconvenience.
Nationwide closures include March 14 (second Saturday) and March 28 (fourth Saturday). State-specific holidays vary, with Holi celebrated on March 3–4 in North India, Ugadi on March 19 in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, and Ram Navami on March 26 across several states.
Despite branch closures, digital banking channels such as UPI, net banking, and ATMs will remain fully operational. Notably, March 31 will see agency banks open to facilitate financial year-end transactions.
Major Takeaways
RBI announces 11 bank holidays in March 2026
-
Holi: March 3–4 (North India)
-
Eid-ul-Fitr: March 20–21 (multiple states)
-
Ugadi: March 19 (Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka)
-
Ram Navami: March 26 (nationwide observance)
-
Nationwide closures: March 14 & March 28 (second and fourth Saturdays)
Agency banks open March 31 for year-end financial tasks
Conclusion
March 2026 is among the busiest months for bank closures, driven by festivals and fiscal year-end activities. Customers should rely on digital platforms for uninterrupted services and plan branch-dependent tasks around the official holiday schedule.
Sources: Outlook Business, Times of India, Republic World, LatestLY, CNBC TV18