Is 5th February a Public Holiday in Pakistan on Kashmir Day
Yes, February 5, 2026 (Thursday) is a confirmed public holiday across Pakistan in observance of Kashmir Solidarity Day, an annual national occasion marked to express unity with the people of Kashmir.
On this day, all federal and provincial government offices, banks, educational institutions, and most private businesses remain closed nationwide, in line with official government notifications.
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Official Holiday Breakdown: February 2026
As of January 18, 2026, the status of holidays around Kashmir Day is as follows:
February 5, 2026 (Thursday)
- ✅ Confirmed Public Holiday
- Observed across Pakistan
- State Bank of Pakistan and all commercial banks will remain closed
- Government offices, schools, colleges, and universities closed
February 6, 2026 (Friday)
- ⚠️ Under Discussion (Not Official)
- Reports suggest the Punjab government and district administrations in cities such as Lahore are considering declaring Friday an additional holiday
- No official notification issued yet
February 7–8, 2026 (Saturday–Sunday)
- 📌 Regular weekly holidays
➡️ Important: Any claim of a “finalized 4-day holiday” is not official unless formally notified by the government.
What Happens on Kashmir Solidarity Day?
Kashmir Solidarity Day is observed nationwide with state-level participation, public events, and extensive media coverage.
One-Minute Silence (10:00 AM)
A nationwide one-minute silence is observed at 10:00 AM to honor Kashmiri martyrs. Traffic halts briefly, sirens are sounded, and official ceremonies pause across the country.
Human Chains at Key Locations
Symbolic human chains are formed to show unity with Kashmiris, most notably at:
- Kohala Bridge
- Key entry points connecting Pakistan with Azad Jammu and Kashmir
These events are attended by political leaders, civil society members, and students.
Rallies and Processions
Major political and religious parties organize rallies and marches in large cities, including:
- Islamabad
- Lahore
- Karachi
- Peshawar
🔴 Traffic disruptions are expected in city centers, near government buildings, and along major arteries.
Media Coverage Nationwide
All national TV and radio networks broadcast:
- Special news transmissions
- Documentaries on the Kashmir dispute
- Themed dramas and talk shows
- Messages from political and religious leadership
State-run and private media dedicate most of the day to Kashmir-focused programming.
Travel Advisory for Kashmir Day
If you are planning travel on February 5, especially between Pakistan and AJK, take note:
- Entry and exit points such as Kohala and Mangla may be temporarily blocked
- Human chain ceremonies can halt traffic for several hours
- Travelers are advised to reschedule non-essential journeys or allow extra time
Public transport may also face rerouting in major cities.
Final Word
- ✅ February 5, 2026 is officially confirmed as a nationwide public holiday
- ❌ February 6 is NOT a holiday yet — still under consideration
- Claims of a confirmed 4-day break should be treated with caution
- Any additional holiday will be valid only after an official government notification
