If you’re planning to visit a bank in India for any transaction or service, it’s important to understand the typical banking hours. This guide aims to provide you with clear and simple information on when banks are usually open.
Understanding Bank Timings in India 2024
Most banks in India operate from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. However, some banks have extended their service hours and are open for 12 hours a day, from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. If you need to visit a bank for any reason, such as depositing cash or a cheque, updating your passbook, or other services, these are the times you’ll most likely find the bank open.
Please Note: The above-mentioned timings are general. Different banks may have different working hours, especially in various locations or due to specific policies. It’s always a good idea to check the exact timings with your local branch before visiting.
Bank Timings in India
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the working hours of many institutions, including banks. While most have returned to their standard timings, some might still operate on a modified schedule. The timings for major banks in India might have changed during and after the lockdown, so it’s best to verify the current hours through the bank’s official website or by contacting them directly.
| Name of the Bank | Bank Opening Hours | Bank Closing Time |
| State Bank of India Bank | 9.00 AM | 3.30 p.m. |
| HDFC Bank | 9:30 AM | 3:30 p.m. |
| HSBC Bank | 10:00 AM | 4:00 p.m. |
| Allahabad Bank | 10:00 AM | 4:00 p.m. |
| ICICI Bank | 10:00 AM | 2:00 p.m. |
| RBL Bank | 10:00 AM | 5:00 p.m. |
| Punjab National Bank | 10:00 AM | 4:00 p.m. |
| YES Bank | 9:30 AM | 4:30 p.m. |
| Bank of Baroda | 10:00 AM | 4:00 p.m. |
| IDBI Bank | 10:00 AM | 4:00 p.m. |
Remember, knowing the bank’s operating hours can save you time and help plan your visit more efficiently. Always check the latest timings to ensure a smooth banking experience.
Bank Timings Post COVID-19 Lockdown
After the initial adjustments during the nationwide lockdown, banks have now resumed normal operations. Safety measures include mandatory face masks, hand sanitizers, temperature checks, and maintaining a safe distance within the premises. Customers are advised to use net banking and Mobile Banking for routine transactions to avoid unnecessary visits.
RBI Bank Timings
The Reserve Bank of India is operational on weekdays from 9:30 AM to 5:15 PM, with banking hours from 10:00 AM to 2:30 PM.
Bank Timing on Saturdays
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has specified that banks will be closed on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each month. However, they will remain open on the 1st, 3rd, and 5th Saturdays, following the same hours as regular weekdays.
Bank Lunch Time
Unlike many other businesses, banks in India do not close during lunch hours. This means you can visit at any time during operating hours for your transactions. To ensure service isn’t interrupted, bank staff take their lunch breaks in shifts, typically between 1 and 3 p.m. However, this schedule might vary slightly from one bank to another.
Indian Banks During Holidays
Banks observe all public and government holidays, remaining closed on these days. Additionally, each state in India may have its own set of specific bank holidays. You can usually find a list of these holidays on the bank’s calendar available at branches or on their official website. Even on banking holidays, customers can access several services, including:
- Immediate Payment Services (IMPS)
- Unified Payment Interface (UPI)
- Mobile and Internet Banking
- ATM Services
- Cheque Drop Boxes at ATMs
Bank Timings of NEFT and RTGS
- NEFT (National Electronic Funds Transfer): The RBI has made NEFT services available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This means you can initiate these transactions at any time that’s convenient for you.
- RTGS (Real-Time Gross Settlement): RTGS services are also available around the clock, 24/7. This service is used for larger transactions and, like NEFT, can be accessed at any time.
Understanding these timings can help you plan your banking activities without inconvenience. Remember, while online services like NEFT and RTGS are always available, visiting a branch is subject to the specific timings and holidays mentioned. It’s always a good idea to check with your local branch for any variations or specific rules they might have.
More bank timings in India to know:
FAQs about Major Bank Working Hours / Timings
Is there a special time for banking on Saturdays?
In India, banks operate on the 1st, 3rd, and 5th Saturdays of each month, following the regular weekday hours. They are closed on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays as well as Sundays.
What is the official bank timing for lunch in bank branches?
Banks in India do not have an official lunch ‘hour.’ Instead, to ensure continuous service, bank employees usually take their lunch breaks in shifts or at staggered times throughout the midday period, typically between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM.
Do banks open on second and fourth Saturdays for half a day?
No, banks in India are closed on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of every month, along with Sundays. They do not open for half a day.
Do bank timings vary from branch to branch?
Yes, bank timings can vary from one branch to another. While there is a general schedule most banks follow, specific opening and closing times can differ, especially in different regions or for certain bank branches.
What are the normal working hours of an Indian bank?
Generally, Indian banks operate from around 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM on weekdays. However, some branches may have extended or reduced hours ranging from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
What is a bank’s cheque-clearing time?
Typically, the time frame for clearing a cheque in India is within three to seven working days. This period can vary depending on the banks involved and the type of cheque.
Can I call the bank on Sundays?
Yes, many banks provide toll-free customer service numbers that operate even on Sundays. However, the availability might vary between banks.
What are the working hours of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)?
The Reserve Bank of India usually operates from 9:30 AM to 5:15 PM on weekdays.
Which Saturdays are holidays for Indian Banks?
The 2nd and the 4th Saturdays of every month are designated bank holidays in India.
Will the bank be shut during lunch?
No, banks remain open during lunch hours. Staff take their breaks in shifts to ensure continuous service to customers.