List of Holidays in May 2023

The summer season has officially begun! What’s better than planning a holiday with family, friends, or solo? May is the month of new beginnings. So, respond to the wanderlust, the seeker of thrill and good times in you. Check out this detailed list of holidays for the month of May 2023 India and abroad. Plan your vacation this May to create memories you will never forget.

Read here to know more about various holidays in May 2023 and plan your travel accordingly. 

List of Public Holidays in India in May 2023

Here is a comprehensive list of public holidays for the month of May 2023 in India: 

List of Bank Holidays in May 2023 in India

Usually, banks remain shut for the 2^nd and 4^th Saturday of the month. Apart from this, banks remain closed on public holidays, national holidays and regional holidays. However, public and regional holidays may differ from one state to another. In that case here is a list of bank holidays in May 2023:

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List of May 2023 Holidays Around the World

Here is a list of holidays in May 2023 around the world: 

May, which is in the middle of the year, provides a great opportunity to unwind and recharge for the rest of the year by going on a short foreign trip. There are different places you can visit and experience its distinct culture and cuisine. Here is a list of global holidays of May 2023: 

Festival Celebration in May 2023

India is one of the most ethnically diverse countries in the world and we experience festival celebrations around the year. Some festivals are celebrated regionally whereas some are celebrated on a national scale. If you are looking to plan a trip in May 2023, here are some major festivals that you can enjoy and get a taste of our rich culture and heritage. 

1. Labour Day

Also known as Shramik Diwas, the main purpose of organising a labour day is to recognise and celebrate the contribution of labourers in nation-building activities. Labour day celebrations occurred in India for the first time on 1^st May 1923 at Madras. 

Various events are held in different districts and towns where labourers are felicitated. This day is celebrated not only in India but around the world. 

2. Buddha Purnima 

Also known as Vaisakhi Purnima or Vesak, this day marks the birth of Lord Gautam Buddha. It is the most important day of the year for believers and followers of Buddha. Grand-scale celebrations occur at various places in India, especially those that have a sizeable Buddhist population. As per the mythical history, Buddha was born in Lumbini in 563 BC during the full moon night of the Vaishak month. 

Devotees of Buddha visit Buddhist temples, light candles and incense sticks, and pray for the well being of their families. This day also sees a heavy rush at major Buddhist pilgrimage sites of Gaya, Sanchi, Sarnath, Kushinagar, etc.     

3. Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore Jayanti 

Another big festival in the eastern part of India is the birth anniversary of the great literary poet, novelist, scholar and India’s first Noble prize winner Rabindranath Tagore. The birth anniversary is celebrated on the 25^th day of Boishakh month as per the Bengali calendar. He was born in 1861 on the 25^th day of Boisakh as per DrikPanchang. 

He was widely considered as one of the leading figures who revolutionised Bengali literature. Rabindranath Tagore combined modernism and traditional overtones in his work. His writings became a huge success in a very short span of time. Moreover, he motivated youths to join India’s freedom struggle through his writing.

Several events are held in Jorasanko Thakurbari which is the birthplace of a great literary icon. Furthermore, local and state governments and the general public organise different cultural programmes, to pay homage to Rabindranath Tagore. Educational institutions also organise cultural programmes in which students participate to perform in memory of Rabindranath Tagore. 

4. Ganga Dussehra

Indo-Gangetic plains experience this festival to pay obeisance and worship India’s lifeline i.e., River Ganga. As per mythical sayings, Goddess Ganga came down on Earth from heaven to free the soul of Bhagirathi’s forefathers from a curse. 

Devotees believe that the purification of the earth occurred after Goddess Ganga descended on it and it achieved heavenly status. Celebration of this festival involves taking a dip in Ganges to rid yourself of all sins. Aarti is also carried out by devotees on the banks of the Ganga at major centres like Haridwar, Prayagraj, Varanasi, etc. 

Places to Visit in India in May 2023

During the month of May, temperatures start rising and it becomes hot and humid in various parts of the country. This gives an excellent opportunity to go on a short vacation away from the searing heat. Schools and colleges remain closed in May for summer vacation, and therefore it is a great time to check out for a holiday with your family. Here are some places that you can consider visiting during holidays in May 2023:

1. Spiti 

It is one of the most popular tourist destinations during the month of May. Located in Himachal Pradesh, it is a serene valley with panoramic landscapes, the oldest Buddhist monasteries, and rugged motorable roads. There is an abundance of natural beauty in this place. 

• Attractions: Major attractions of this place are Kye Monastery, Pin Valley National Park, Chandratal Lake, Komick Village and Triloknath temple.      
• Things to Do: You can go on a bike ride and enjoy the pleasant climate and surroundings. Moreover, there are trekking options in Hampta Pass. Take a stroll and admire the natural beauty of Pin Valley National Park. 
• How to Reach: The nearest airport to this location is Kullu airport which is around 250 kms away. You need to hire a cab or a private car to reach Spiti from Kullu Airport. You can also reach Spiti from Manali by using the newly constructed Rohtang Tunnel. 
• Festivals: Tshechu Fair. 

2. Kerala 

Famous for its backwaters, Kerala is another popular tourist destination in May. It comes with a perfect blend of natural beauties and you can find mountains, beaches lined up with scenic palm trees, and backwaters. All these make it an ideal spot for enjoying your summer vacation.   

• Attractions: Munnar, Thekkady, Fort Kochi, Periyar National Park, Kovalam beaches and Alleppey. 

• Things to Do: Enjoy special classical Kathakali performances which will educate you about the great culture and civilisational heritage of this region. Take a tour of beautiful tea estates and boat ride in the backwaters. 
• How to Reach: Kerala is well connected with roads, railways and airports to the rest of the country. Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram airports are two major airports of this state. 
• Festivals: You can enjoy some of the mesmerising Kalaripayattu performances. 

3. Mcleodganj 

Famous for being the home of the Dalai Lama. This place is a must-visit place on your travel bucket list, especially in the summers. Scenic mountains and valleys prove to be a great escape from stressing urban life.

Attractions: Namgyal Monastery, Bhagsu Nag temple, Tibetan Museum, Triund and Dal Lake.

Things to Do: Sightseeing in the city, boat ride in Dal Lake and trekking in Triund. 

How to Reach: Pathankot Junction is the nearest railway station at a distance of 90 kms. Apart from this, you can also reach this place by the air route. Gaggal airport is located close to this place at a distance of 18 kms. 

Festivals: Buddha Purnima celebration 

4. Lansdowne

Located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, it is one of the most pristine and scenic hill stations of North India. The charm and peaceful nature of this place will make your trip an unforgettable one. 

• Attractions: St Mary’s Church, Tarkeshwar Mahadev temple, and Bhulla Lake.
• Things to Do: Boat ride in Bhulla Lake, trekking to Snow Viewpoint, taking a stroll in the picturesque city. 
• How to Reach: Dehradun airport is the closest airport to Lansdowne. Apart from this, Kotdwar is the nearest railway station. 
• Festivals: Several local fairs and meals. 

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5. Kausani

Offering a panoramic and picturesque view of Nanda Devi hills. Witnessing the sunrise in Kausani will be a lifetime experience. Located in the state of Uttarakhand at a height of 1800 m from sea levels. 

• Attractions: Rudradhari falls and caves, Baijnath Temple and Gandhi Ashram. 
• Things to Do: Trekking at the Adi Kailash Mountain range, sunrise view from Nanda Devi peak, watching exotic bird species.
• How to Reach: The closest railway station to this place is Kathgodam and the nearest railway station is Pantnagar located at a distance of 177 kms away. 
• Festivals: Shivratri fairs and cultural programmes. 

Places to Visit Abroad in May 

Here are some of the most happening places that you can consider visiting to relieve yourself from stressful daily life and the raging summer of India: 

1. Italy 

Italy always ranks higher for travellers due to the amalgamation of history, art and culture in its atmosphere. Situated in southern Europe and can be an ideal place for visiting in May. 

• Attractions: Naples, Venice, Rome, Florence, Pompeii. 
• Things to Do: Enjoy a walk through historic towns of Venice and Rome, take some time off to chill at beautiful beaches, and trekking at Mount Etna. 
• How to Reach: There are a number of airports in Italy which offer direct connectivity with India. You can book a flight to Rome International airport from any major city of India. 
• Festivals: Maggio Musical Florentino in Florence, and flower festival in Noto. 

2. Greece 

Another European country with a rich ancient history. It offers a perfect place for any traveller as it houses ancient sites, mountains, beaches, and significant cultural places.

• Attractions: Athens, Naxos, Paros  
• Things to Do: Visit the Scenic Santorini beaches, ancient city of Athens. 
• How to Reach: You can easily book a flight to Athens International Airport from any metropolitan city in India. 
• Festivals: Salsa Spring Festival, Up the Hammers festivals.

3. France 

Paris, the capital of France is one of the most romantic places in the world. Moderate spring weather and sparse crowds make it an ideal place for travellers in May. 

• Attractions: Paris, Nice, Monaco, etc. 
• Things to Do: Sightseeing the beautiful city of Paris with your loved ones, admiring the beauty of Lire Valley and the architecture of Lyon.
• How to Reach: Book a flight to one of the busiest airports in Europe i.e., Paris International Airport. 
• Festivals: Cannes Film Festival 

4. England 

England is an island nation with some of the most beautiful valleys and countryside.

• Attractions: London, Bath, Liverpool, Manchester 
• Things to Do: Attend a football match at Theatre of Dreams, and a cricket match at Mecca of Cricket i.e., Lords. Apart from this, you can also visit the famous Westminster area and Buckingham Palace. 
• How to Reach: Book a flight from Heathrow Airport from any major city in the world. 
• Festivals: Dot to Dot Festival, Harrogate International Festival 

5. Seychelles  

It is an island nation located on the eastern coast of Africa. It is a top draw for travellers from India due to its calm and serene environment. Its natural beauty, resorts and beautiful beaches are a major draw. 

•  Attractions: Mahé, Anse Lazio, Curieuse Island. 
• Things to Do: Sunbathing, snorkelling and scuba diving. 
• How to Reach: You can book a flight to the airport of its capital city i.e., Victoria International Airport. 
• Festivals: Local cuisines and cultural festivals. 

Final Word

May is one of the best times to take some time off and plan trips with your friends and family. There are great vacationing options both in India and abroad, and you can use this article to identify holidays in May and plan vacations accordingly. 

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Disclaimer: This article has been prepared on the basis of internal data, publicly available information and other sources believed to be reliable. The information contained in this article is for general purposes only and not a complete disclosure of every material fact. It should not be construed as investment advice to any party. The article does not warrant the completeness or accuracy of the information, and disclaims all liabilities, losses and damages arising out of the use of this information. Readers shall be fully liable/responsible for any decision taken on the basis of this article. 

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