You might be wondering why Holi in India is considered such a significant occasion. The festival has ancient roots in Hindu mythology, with stories about Lord Krishna playing pranks on the village girls by drenching them in colored water. Over time, this custom spread far and wide, transforming into one of the most famous celebrations on the subcontinent.
Today, the Holi festival in India has become a colorful expression of unity and joy. Friends, neighbors, and even strangers join together to splash one another with colors. Local markets brim with snacks like gujiya (sweet dumplings) and glasses of thandai (a spiced milk-based drink). People greet each other with, “Bura na mano, Holi hai!” which means, “Don’t take offense; it’s Holi!”
Mark your calendar: Holi in India 2025 falls on March 14.
In this blog, we will explore 10 amazing places renowned for their unique style of celebrating Holi.
1. Mathura
Mathura is located in the state of Uttar Pradesh. If you want to witness Holika Dahan (bonfire ritual) or join a street procession, arrive a few days before the official date. You’ll see how devoted locals keep their ancient traditions alive, making Mathura a favourite for a genuine Holi celebration in India.
Why Visit Mathura?
- Historic Ties: Being Krishna’s birthplace, Mathura brims with spiritual stories and special customs.
- Temple Celebrations: The Dwarkadhish Temple hosts devotional singing, dance performances, and color-throwing rituals before the main Holi day.
- Colorful Streets: Leading up to Holi, narrow lanes overflow with stalls selling colorful powders, water guns, and festive sweets.
2. Vrindavan
Close to Mathura is Vrindavan, another city tightly linked with Lord Krishna’s childhood tales. The energy here during Holi in India is wonderfully electric.
Highlights of Vrindavan
- Banke Bihari Temple: Famous for Phoolon ki Holi, where priests shower flower petals on devotees. It’s a serene twist compared to the usual color-splash.
- Widow’s Holi at Gopinath Temple: Breaking traditional barriers, widows take part in the festivities by playing with colored powders. This powerful event showcases how Holi unites everyone.
- Spiritual Vibes: You can join kirtans (devotional songs) and partake in temple rituals that reflect Vrindavan’s strong religious atmosphere.
3. Barsana
Barsana offers a playful take on Holi in India with a tradition called Lathmar Holi. According to local lore, Krishna once teased Radha and her friends, and they playfully chased him away with sticks. Today, that tale becomes a fun-filled ceremony where women “beat” men with wooden laths in a mock battle.
What to Expect in Barsana
- Live Folk Music: Groups chant and sing songs in the local Braj language while swirling clouds of powder fill the air.
- Festive Processions: Townspeople and pilgrims gather to watch color-smeared processions that celebrate the unique story of Radha and Krishna.
- Joyful ‘Attacks’: Don’t worry, these “attacks” are done with laughter and gentle taps. Men protect themselves with shields, adding to the playful atmosphere.
4. Pushkar
Holi in Pushkar is a carnival of colors, dance, and live music. This event in Pushkar is known for drawing a global crowd.
Why Holi in Pushkar?
- Exuberant Street Party: The main square throbs with upbeat music as travelers and locals alike join color-throwing battles.
- Water Guns and DJ Sets: You’ll see water guns (pichkaris) in action while DJs blast Bollywood tunes, making it a modern-day extravaganza.
- Friendly Ambiance: Pushkar’s laid-back vibe lets everyone—young and old—enjoy the festival without feeling overwhelmed.
If you plan a proper Pushkar Tour, consider booking cheap car rentals from nearby hubs like Jaipur. The drive offers scenic views of desert landscapes, and you’ll have freedom to explore on your own schedule.
5. Jaipur
Jaipur is famous for its grand palaces and warm hospitality. When Holi arrives, Jaipur’s vibrant streets become even brighter with colorful powders and cheerful music.
What Makes Jaipur Special?
- City Palace Celebrations: In some years, members of the royal family host festivities at the City Palace. Expect to see folk dancers, musicians, and elegantly dressed guests tossing bright powders in the air.
- Folk Music and Dance: Local artists perform traditional Rajasthani tunes while wearing dazzling attire. Their lively dances add a regal touch to the Holi fun.
- Safe and Organized Events: Authorities often plan special zones for color play, ensuring a comfortable environment for both locals and visitors.
Travelers who want to enjoy the Holi festival in India in a refined setting should consider Jaipur as a prime choice.
Note:
Most people view Holi as one of the brightest and happiest Festivals of North India. But make no mistake, these events span the entire country, with each region showcasing its own cultural flavor. From flower-centric celebrations in Vrindavan to the energetic chaos in Pushkar, travelers can pick and choose which style suits them best.
That’s why many visitors decide to focus on Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh first, as these areas have some of the most iconic displays of color. More importantly, they’re well-connected by road and rail, making multi-stop adventures easier to plan. If you crave a slower pace, staying in one city can still offer plenty of excitement without the pressure of constant travel.
6. Udaipur
If you fancy celebrating Holi with a view of glittering waters and majestic hills, head to Udaipur. Dubbed the City of Lakes, Udaipur takes the excitement of Holi in India and blends it with an air of romantic charm.
Top Highlights
- Holika Dahan at City Palace: The Mewar royal family sometimes arranges a bonfire ceremony in the palace courtyard. The sight of traditional dancers, horses, and the lighting of the sacred fire is truly mesmerizing.
- Lake Pichola Boat Rides: After the color-throwing madness, a peaceful boat ride on Lake Pichola can help you unwind. You’ll see beautiful palaces reflected on calm waters – a striking contrast to the earlier festivities.
- Local Culture: Enjoy mouthwatering sweets like malpua and gujiya at street stalls. The local shops also offer bright Rajasthani fabrics if you want a festive outfit.
Udaipur’s royal roots and scenic lakefront make this city a top place for your Holi celebration in India bucket list.
7. Varanasi
Known for its elaborate aartis (prayer ceremonies) and ancient ghats, Varanasi adds a holy dimension to the otherwise rowdy Holi fun.
Why Choose Varanasi?
- Riverside Rituals: Early mornings offer a view of pilgrims performing rituals on the ghats. Once Holi begins, these same ghats transform into arenas for throwing colors.
- Temple Visits: Many travelers attend prayers at famous temples like Kashi Vishwanath before diving into the color battles.
- Bhang Delights: Varanasi is popular for its bhang-infused thandai, a traditional beverage that heightens the festive spirit. Sip responsibly if you decide to partake.
If you desire a Holi festival in India that blends ancient customs with colors, this city should top your list.
8. Delhi
Delhi offers a mix of traditional Holi celebration in India and modern-day music festivals. From temple courtyards to fancy clubs, you’ll find events that cater to every style.
Delhi Holi Highlights
- Neighborhood Gatherings: Wander through residential colonies where families come together to douse each other in color. You’ll likely be invited to share sweets and join in on friendly water-gun battles.
- DJ-Fueled Parties: High-energy Holi bashes feature well-known DJs, rain dances, and safe organic powders. These events often take place at hotels or outdoor venues.
- Street Food Galore: Savor mouthwatering chaat (snacks), tangy golgappas (pani puri), and luscious rabri (sweet thickened milk) during your Holi adventure.
Thanks to efficient public transport and abundant accommodations, Delhi is an ideal spot to experience the full range of Holi in India 2025 – from old-world traditions to trending pop culture.
9. Hampi
For travelers seeking something different, Hampi in Karnataka offers a relaxed take on Holi in India.
Hampi Highlights
- Temple Gatherings: Virupaksha Temple often serves as a focal point, where locals and backpackers alike join for color-throwing and folk music.
- Boulder-Strewn Ruins: Imagine splashing colors on friends while standing amid centuries-old ruins. It’s a surreal backdrop that makes your Holi photos even more memorable.
- Mellow Atmosphere: Hampi is quieter compared to cities in North India, so expect smaller crowds and a laid-back vibe—perfect if you want a peaceful, meaningful holiday.
Hampi stands out for blending history with the lively energy of Holi in India 2025, allowing visitors to explore ancient architecture while still joining in on the colorful fun.
10. Anandpur Sahib, Punjab
If you want a unique Holi experience that blends devotion and martial arts, Anandpur Sahib in Punjab is a perfect choice. Here, the Sikh community celebrates Hola Mohalla on the same dates as the Holi festival. Instead of throwing colors, locals showcase thrilling Gatka performances (traditional Sikh martial arts) and organize impressive horse-riding events.
You’ll see vibrant processions with devotees chanting hymns and playing drums as they march through the streets. The energy is electric yet reverent, highlighting values of courage, discipline, and unity.
Planning a Seamless Holi Journey
1. Choosing the Right Travel Option
Consider looking into custom tours if you prefer a stress-free adventure. A travel expert can build an itinerary around your top Holi hotspots, ensuring you arrive on the correct dates to see temple rituals, street events, and local parades.
Alternatively, some travelers like to join group tours in India for a shared experience. These tours often bring together people from different backgrounds, creating a fun atmosphere and a safe way to enjoy crowded festivities.
2. Exploring Customized Packages
For a more detailed approach, you can find customized tour packages in India that include not only Holi destinations but also cultural add-ons like cooking classes, city tours, or historical site visits. With these packages, you can mix your Holi adventure with other famous attractions, such as the Taj Mahal in Agra or the Golden Temple in Amritsar.
3. Why a Reliable Travel Agency Matters
During festival time, accommodations fill up fast, and local transport can be in high demand. Partnering with the Best Tour Agency in India can be a game-changer. Good agencies help reserve hotels in prime locations, arrange guided visits to local events, and offer tips on navigating each city’s unique Holi customs.
Conclusion
From the royal courts of Jaipur to the serene ghats of Varanasi, each place we’ve listed has its own way of celebrating Holi in India. Before booking your trip, do a little homework on the city that most excites you. This research and advanced planning can help you enjoy the best of this iconic Holi celebration in India.
Wherever you choose to go, the most important thing is to keep your mind open and your heart ready for new experiences. After all, Holi is about forgetting worries, forging friendships, and celebrating life’s beautiful palette.
