The first quarter of the year offers some of the most rewarding travel opportunities in India. January, February and March 2026 bring together national holidays, regional festivals, harvest celebrations and cultural observances. When planned well, these holidays create space for slow travel, longer breaks and meaningful experiences rather than rushed trips.
This detailed holiday guide combines national holidays, Kerala state holidays and nearby state holidays from Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Alongside the calendar, you will discover why Kumarakom is the best place to spend your holidays in Kerala and why ILLIKKALAM Lakeside Cottages, Kumarakom stands out as the ideal place to stay.
Quick Overview: January to March 2026
- Best weather window in Kerala with pleasant mornings and calm evenings
- Multiple national and regional holidays ideal for long weekends
- Peak season for backwater cruises and birdwatching in Kumarakom
- Balanced mix of festive energy and peaceful travel experiences
Complete Holiday Calendar: January to March 2026
January 2026 Holidays
| Date | Day | Holiday | States Observing |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1 | Thursday | New Year’s Day | National (Restricted) |
| January 2 | Friday | Mannam Jayanti | Kerala |
| January 14 | Wednesday | Makar Sankranti / Pongal | Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka |
| January 15 | Thursday | Kanuma Panduga | Andhra Pradesh, Telangana |
| January 26 | Monday | Republic Day | National |
January begins with harvest celebrations and cultural warmth across India. Republic Day falling on a Monday in 2026 makes it one of the strongest long weekend opportunities of the year, especially for travelers from neighboring states planning a Kerala getaway.
February 2026 Holidays
| Date | Day | Holiday | States Observing |
|---|---|---|---|
| February 1 | Sunday | Guru Ravidas Jayanti | Regional Observance |
| February 15 | Sunday | Maha Shivaratri | Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana |
February moves at a slower, gentler pace. Maha Shivaratri falling on a Sunday allows flexible planning, especially for those seeking spiritual calm combined with leisure travel in Kerala.
March 2026 Holidays
| Date | Day | Holiday | States Observing |
|---|---|---|---|
| March 3 | Tuesday | Holika Dahan | National Observance |
| March 4 | Wednesday | Holi | National |
| March 19 | Thursday | Ugadi | Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana |
| March 21 | Saturday | Eid ul Fitr (Tentative) | National |
| March 26 | Thursday | Ram Navami | National |
March blends color, renewal and transition. Holi adds festive joy, while Ugadi marks the New Year in South India. This month is ideal for travelers who prefer shoulder-season calm with cultural depth.
Why January to March Is the Best Time to Visit Kerala
Kerala experiences its most comfortable climate during the first quarter of the year. Humidity remains moderate, rainfall is minimal and backwaters remain calm. This creates perfect conditions for houseboat cruises, village walks and lakeside stays.
Cultural life continues steadily during this season, allowing visitors to witness festivals and local traditions without heavy tourist crowds.
Kumarakom: The Best Place to Spend Your Holidays in Kerala
Kumarakom rests quietly on the shores of Vembanad Lake. It is a destination designed for slow living rather than sightseeing rush. Waterways weave through coconut groves, birds migrate through wetlands and time stretches comfortably.
From January to March, Kumarakom offers clear skies, pleasant temperatures and an unmatched sense of calm. It is ideal for couples, families and solo travelers seeking rest, nature and authentic Kerala experiences.
What Makes Kumarakom Special
- Direct access to Kerala’s famous backwaters
- Seasonal bird migrations at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
- Less commercial atmosphere compared to major beach towns
- Perfect for wellness, nature and cultural travel
Things to Do in Kumarakom During Holidays
- Early morning canoe rides through narrow canals
- Half day or full day houseboat cruises on Vembanad Lake
- Birdwatching walks and photography
- Village cycling and local market visits
- Ayurvedic therapies and lakeside relaxation
Best Place to Stay: ILLIKKALAM Lakeside Cottages, Kumarakom
ILLIKKALAM Lakeside Cottages offers an authentic lakeside stay experience that blends comfort with simplicity. Located right on the water, the cottages provide uninterrupted views of the lake and passing boats.
Mornings begin with soft light over the water, evenings glow with reflections and nights remain peaceful and quiet. The location also offers easy access to houseboat points and the bird sanctuary.
Why Choose ILLIKKALAM Lakeside Cottages
- True lakeside location with sunrise and sunset views
- Comfortable cottages with private sit-out areas
- Close to major Kumarakom attractions
- Ideal for peaceful holiday stays
Sample Holiday Itinerary
| Day | Experience |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrival and evening lakeside relaxation |
| Day 2 | Bird sanctuary visit and village walk |
| Day 3 | Houseboat cruise on Vembanad Lake |
| Day 4 | Ayurvedic massage and sunset canoe ride |
| Day 5 | Leisure breakfast and departure |
January to March 2026 Holidays and Best Kerala Getaway
A visual holiday planner covering national and regional holidays with the perfect travel destination in Kerala
January 2026
- New Year’s Day
- Mannam Jayanti
- Makar Sankranti / Pongal
- Republic Day
Best for: Long weekends and harvest festival travel
February 2026
- Guru Ravidas Jayanti
- Maha Shivaratri
Best for: Calm spiritual and wellness holidays
March 2026
- Holi
- Ugadi
- Eid ul Fitr
- Ram Navami
Best for: Cultural travel and shoulder season escapes
Why January to March Is Ideal for Kerala
🌤️ Pleasant winter climate
Low humidity and clear skies
🛶 Calm backwaters
Best season for houseboat cruises
🦜 Bird migration season
Peak sightings at Kumarakom
🎉 Festivals without crowds
Cultural depth with relaxed travel
Best Place to Spend These Holidays in Kerala
Kumarakom
- Backwater village on Vembanad Lake
- Slow travel destination with nature and culture
- Perfect for couples, families and solo travelers
- Ideal base for holiday breaks and long weekends
Best Stay in Kumarakom
ILLIKKALAM Lakeside Cottages
- True lakeside cottages with water views
- Peaceful location away from crowded resorts
- Easy access to houseboats and bird sanctuary
- Perfect for holiday relaxation and nature lovers
Sample Holiday Flow
Arrival and lakeside sunset
Bird sanctuary and village walk
Houseboat cruise
Ayurveda and canoe ride
Leisure breakfast and departure
Final Thoughts
The January to March 2026 holiday season offers more than dates on a calendar. It offers space to slow down, reconnect and travel mindfully.
When these holidays align with a destination like Kumarakom and a stay at ILLIKKALAM Lakeside Cottages, the result is a holiday experience that feels unhurried, meaningful and memorable.