Big warning for liquor shops, bars, hotels and party lovers in Karnataka! In 2026, several Dry Days will see complete ban on alcohol sale and serving across the state, including Bengaluru, Mysuru and Mangaluru. Nationwide bans on Republic Day (January 26), Independence Day (August 15) and Gandhi Jayanti (October 2) remain mandatory. Karnataka adds restrictions for major festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi (September 14) and others.
Violators face heavy fines, license cancellation or legal action under Karnataka Excise laws. Stock up in advance – private consumption allowed, but no new sales!
Know Complete Details of Dry Days in Karnataka 2026
Dry Days enforced by Karnataka Excise Department to respect national events, religious festivals and cultural observances.
Nationwide Dry Days:
- Republic Day: January 26, 2026 (Monday)
- Independence Day: August 15, 2026 (Saturday)
- Gandhi Jayanti: October 2, 2026 (Friday)
Karnataka-Specific Major Dry Days:
- Makara Sankranti: January 15, 2026 (Thursday)
- Good Friday: April 3, 2026 (Friday)
- Ganesh Chaturthi: September 14, 2026 (Monday)
- Other common: Janmashtami (around August/September), Muharram/Eid dates (tentative).
Election dry days extra if polls in your area (48 hours before voting + counting day).
Month-Wise Dry Days in Karnataka 2026
- January: 15 (Makara Sankranti), 26 (Republic Day)
- April: 3 (Good Friday)
- August: 15 (Independence Day)
- September: 14 (Ganesh Chaturthi)
- October: 2 (Gandhi Jayanti)
Lunar dates (Eid, Muharram) may shift by 1-2 days – check official notifications.
Special Rules in Karnataka Cities
- Bengaluru/Mysuru: Strict enforcement; wine shops, bars and pubs closed fully.
- Other districts: Local variations during festivals.
- Exceptions: 5-star hotels sometimes allowed limited serving, but rare on major days.
- No Home Delivery: Banned on dry days.
How It Affects You – Avoid Fines & Plan Parties
- Bars/Hotels/Restaurants: No serving – revenue impact.
- Liquor Shops: Closed whole day.
- Buyers: Stock before; personal drinking ok.
- Events/Parties: Schedule around dates.
- Tip: Check Karnataka Excise website or local news for updates.
- Edge Cases: Elections create sudden multi-day bans; stricter during Ganesh festival.
These restrictions promote respect and public order during important occasions.
Planning parties or trips in 2026? Which dry day surprises you most? Comment below and share your views!
Stay updated with us for all latest excise rules, festivals and restrictions in Karnataka 2026.