Diving into the 6 best Places for Holi Celebrations Across India

Discover the enchanting journey of Mathura’s ancient temples, the birthplace of Lord Krishna to the majestic forts of Rajasthan. From the sacred banks of river Ganga and Yamuna to the lively streets of West Bengal, and the heritage cities of South India; this timeless magic of Holi is so real. A lot of influx of international tourists during Holi is experienced.

Braj Ki Holi: Capturing the essence of Holi in Mathura and Vrindavan

The celebration starts on Basant Panchmi (40 days before the date) here and is followed by pooja on Ekadashi. Mathura is Lord Krishna’s Janmabhoomi so the celebration here is authentic and cultural. The vibrant city transforms into a lively masterpiece, drawing in visitors from all walks of life - be it pilgrims, tourists, or even the locals themselves.

Mathura's streets are alive with colorful processions that portray events from Krishna's life. Participants are frequently dressed as mythological figures, gods, and goddesses. The parade takes place along the streets, starting from Vishram Ghat and ending at Holi Gate. The celebration starts a week before the actual Holi date and mainly all the events like prayers, dance, and playing with Gulaal happen at Dwarkadhish temple, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh.

Matki Phod ceremony also takes place. Devotees flock to Banke Bihari Temple to witness Holi rituals in Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh. Vrindavan is very famous for its floral Holi. Commonly known as “Phoolon wali Holi” takes place at this temple when priests at the temple bestows pilgrims with a cascade of flowers. At Nidhivan, Ras Leela is portrayed during this period. Also, at Gopinath temple, widows Holi is celebrated with marigold flowers.

Lathmar Leela: Barsana’s Dynamic Holi Festivities

The Lathmar Holi begins a week before the festival. This type of Holi is usually considered as Holi between Lord Krishna and Gopis i.e., Radha and her friends. This happens at the Radha Rani temple of Barsana, Uttar Pradesh. Men from Krishna's Nandgaon hamlet humorously face off against women wielding sticks. Men have to protect themselves from shields. This happens one week before the festival and it is one of the most fun-filled experiences you can have during Holi. Besides this, the sweet Ladoo Holi happens at Shriji temple. Book special Mathura Vrindavan Tour Packages on Holi to enjoy the colours of festival.

Regal Splendor: Jaipur, Pushkar, and Udaipur’s Unique Holi Traditions

Jaipur is “the pink city of India” which reflects a rainbow of colors on Holi. A day before, there is a parade of Elephants where they are decorated with vibrant colored fabrics and jewelry. This is organized by the royal families here with a few more activities like folk dance, a few games like tug of war, and more. It is famous for its “Gulaal Gotas” and “Water Canon Bowls”. The celebration at the “Govind Ji Temple” is quite popular for devotees. The town’s cultural essence adds a unique color to the festival.

Pushkar Lake provides a serene backdrop to Holi celebrations. Many international tourists visit here during Holi as it is celebrated in a different style. Live DJ parties, tearing each other’s t-shirts, and water balloons, and feasting with traditional food mark Holi here.

Holi in Udaipur is a regal affair. Holika Dahan happens at Manek Chowk of City Palace and the former Mewar family and Maharaja grace the event. It is complemented by a traditional dance “Gair” followed by a majestic procession of Elephants and Camels. The festivities culminate with brilliant fireworks marking the end of the day. The next day Holi is celebrated with vibrant colors, and savoring delicious food. Plan a Jaipur tour in advance and book tempo traveller from Delhi to Jaipur and enjoy city tour and holi festival in Jaipur and Pushkar.

Read More: 10 Best Hill Stations Near Delhi for a Summer Retreat

How to enjoy Holi festival in North India

As you can see, Mathura, Jaipur, Pushkar, Varanasi, Delhi is making best places to celebrate Holi in India in different fervors. To enjoy a Holi tour in India, you can book a private and luxury vehicle to enjoy unconditionally and enjoyably with friends. Hire tempo traveller on rent and enjoy the north india festive circuit.

Tagroe’s Pallette Holi in Shantiniketan and Purulia

Holi in Shantiniketan is a cultural event at Viswa Bharati College, founded by Rabindranath Tagore where students and teachers dress up in Saffron clothes to sing and dance to Tagore’s songs. It is popularly known as the Spring Festival or the Basanta Utsav.

Holi or Dol festival in Purulia is celebrated three days before the actual date. It is organized traditionally around Bandhar Deul (a temple of the 8th century). Natua dance, Chau dance, Darbari Jhumur, and songs of Baul musicians mark happiness. Do try a sip of Mohua- the local brew during Holi.

A Carnival of Colors: Holi Celebrations in Hampi’s Historical Setting

People celebrate Holi around the ruins of the grand Vijayanagara Empire. Devour traditional snacks like mathris, gujiyas, and malpuas. People dress up in traditional attire to play with colors and want a smaller color fight to get a chance to interact with the locals. Take a dip in River Tungabhadra that is believed to wash away the color and your sins. Hampi encourages travelers to come and enjoy and participate in musical performances and cultural programs.

Holi on Hills: Manipur’s Colorful Festivities Unveiled

Holi of Manipur is also known as “Yaoshang” and begins 6 days before the festival i.e., full moon day in Phalguna and is celebrated with music and dance. Thabal Chongba dance or moonlight dance is very famous and performed on the rhythm of Dholakar(drum) at night. The Raasaganga Holi Utsav is the highlight of this region. People visit in Krishna temple wearing traditional yellow and white turbans on the final day. Young boys and girls then go from door to door in traditional costumes, seeking 'Nakatheng' or customary money.

Immerse yourself in the celebration of Holi as it weaves together centuries of tradition, legends, and modern-day festivities as it continues to captivate hearts across generations. Each of these 6 best holi destinations in India mentioned above offers a unique palette of colors, rituals, and boundless joy. Navigate through these destinations for an unparalleled experience of this vibrant festival.