Top 12 Best Places to Celebrate Holi in India | From North to South

Holi in India is a super exciting festival, full of colors and joy!

People eagerly await it every year, and it’s celebrated with so much enthusiasm.

It’s not just about painting your skin with colors but also painting happiness in everyone’s hearts.

Discover the Best Places to Celebrate Holi in India

If you’re wondering where are the best places to celebrate Holi in India, well, you’re in luck!

There are some amazing spots that immerse you in the festive spirit like no other.

The choice of where to go depends on what kind of experience you’re after.

During Holi, there are tons of cool activities to dive into.

From traditional rituals like Holika Dahan to more modern fun like drinking bhang thandai (a yummy saffron drink) or munching on bhang pakoras (yummy fritters), there’s something for everyone.

And let’s not forget about the lively DJ parties and musical performances that really get the Holi vibe going!

But it’s not just about the parties. Holi is also about culture and tradition.

You can witness colorful parades, visit temples for special rituals, and even experience royal celebrations in some places.

It’s a time when India truly comes alive with joy and excitement.

No wonder Holi attracts so many tourists from all over the world! It’s an experience like no other, and people travel far and wide just to be a part of it.

So, if you’re up for an unforgettable adventure, make sure to check out the best places to celebrate Holi in India!

1. Mathura, Uttar Pradesh

Holi in Mathura is absolutely amazing, and it’s no wonder why!

I mean, where else would Holi be more special than in the very place it all began, right?

Mathura is famous as the birthplace of Lord Krishna and it’s filled with stories of His incredible miracles.

So, naturally, it’s a top pick for devotees, especially during Holi. The temples in Mathura go all out with their celebrations.

Seriously, some of the best Holi bashes in all of India happen right here. Being a part of these celebrations is something you’ll remember forever.

Now, let me tell you about the highlight of the festivities.

Picture this: a vibrant Holi procession starting from Vishram Ghat and winding its way to Holi Gate.

It’s like a rainbow on the move! But the real magic happens at Dwarkadheesh Temple. That’s where everyone gathers on the morning of Holi.

Music, dancing, and clouds of colorful gulal fill the air. It’s pure joy, I tell you.

Oh, and don’t miss the show at Sri Krishna Janmasthan temple in the week leading up to Holi.

It’s famous for a reason! Honestly, if you want to experience the true beauty of Holi, Mathura is the place to be.

It’s one of the best places to celebrate Holi in India, hands down. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

2. Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh

Vrindavan, known as Lord Krishna’s playground, holds a special place in the hearts of Hindus and sees visitors all year round.

When it comes to celebrating Holi, this town becomes a hub for Vaishnavas.

The main attraction during Holi in Vrindavan is the Banke Bihari Temple, where festivities last for a whole week.

It kicks off with Phoolon ki Holi, where flowers are thrown, followed by Widows Holi, and ends with a vibrant burst of colors just before the main Holi day.

Everywhere you look, people are drenched in different hues, adding to the joy of this Krishna-loving community.

The Gopinath Temple is another hotspot during Holi, especially for the unique color play by widows.

Picture this: marigold flowers everywhere, clouds of gulal filling the air, creating a scene straight out of a dream!

And let’s not forget the devotional songs dedicated to Krishna, adding to the enchantment of Vrindavan during Holi.

If you’re looking for the best places to celebrate Holi in India, Vrindavan should definitely be on your list.

Don’t miss out on this incredible experience – plan your trip to Vrindavan for an unforgettable Holi celebration!

3. Barsana, Uttar Pradesh

If you’re looking for the best places to celebrate Holi in India, Barsana should be at the top of your list.

This place is famous for its unique Holi celebrations, known as Lathmar Holi.

It’s a fun twist on the traditional festival where women playfully beat men with sticks, and the men have to shield themselves from the hits.

This tradition stems from the love story of Krishna and Radha, and it’s held a week before the main Holi day.

Krishna, who was a bit jealous of Radha’s fair complexion, used to playfully color her face with paint to match his own dusky skin.

This tradition of coloring and playfulness led to the women of Barsana and Nandgaon playfully hitting the men with sticks, which is now known as Lathmar Holi.

It’s a joyous celebration filled with laughter and colorful antics.

Now, if you’re in Barsana for Holi, don’t miss out on Laddoo Holi at Shriji Temple on 8th March 2024.

It’s a sweet addition to the festivities!

So mark your calendar, because from 17th March to 25th March 2024, Barsana and Nandgaon will be the places to be for an unforgettable Holi experience.

4. Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Agra stands out as one of the best places to celebrate Holi in India, with its vibrant festival atmosphere.

During this Indian festival, the city comes alive with energy and excitement, offering plenty of colorful fun for everyone.

People eagerly drink glasses of bhang and enjoy playing with bright hues, signaling that the festive spirit is at its peak.

From lively parties to joyful dancing, and savoring delicious sweets, the celebrations know no bounds.

Colorful parades featuring folk songs add to the charm of Holi in Agra, just like in many other parts of India.

The festivities begin with a bonfire on the full moon night, lighting up street corners with traditional fires that symbolize the triumph over evil spirits and bad luck, as we bid farewell to winter.

This ritual signifies the burning of Holika, an important aspect of the Holi festival.

The following day is all about embracing colors and sharing joy.

In the evening, people come together at Holi melas (fairs) or visit each other’s homes to exchange greetings and celebrate the spirit of togetherness.

So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable Holi experience, Agra is definitely one of the best places to immerse yourself in the festive celebrations in India.

5. Udaipur, Rajasthan

If you’re looking for the best places to celebrate Holi in India, Udaipur should be on your list!

The Holi celebration in Udaipur is truly royal and magnificent. It’s like stepping into a fairy tale. Here’s what happens:

First off, there’s something called Holika dahan. It’s a big deal here.

Picture this: a grand bonfire lit up in the courtyard of the royal palace. And guess who lights it? The local Maharaj himself! This special bonfire is known as Mewar Holika dahan.

Then comes the fun part – ‘Gair’. It’s a lively folk dance that people do around the bonfire. It’s energetic and full of joy!

But wait, there’s more! The next day, there’s a grand procession starting from Shambhu Niwas Palace and ending at Manek Chowk royal residence.

You’ll see royals riding on beautifully decorated elephants, horses, and camels, accompanied by royal music. It’s like a scene from a movie!

And here’s a treat – after all the excitement, the palace serves cocktails and dinner to its guests. Talk about feeling like royalty!

But the fun doesn’t stop there. There are amazing fireworks lighting up the sky, adding to the magical atmosphere.

The next day is all about playing with colors and enjoying traditional sweets with friends and family. It’s a time of sharing happiness and sweetness.

And guess what? The celebrations aren’t just limited to the royal palace and Manek Chowk. The whole city comes alive with colors and laughter.

Don’t miss out on this amazing experience! So, if you’re thinking about where to celebrate Holi in India, Udaipur is definitely the place to be!

6. Jaipur, Rajasthan

Wondering where to go for the best Holi celebrations in India?

Look no further than Jaipur! Holi in Jaipur turns the Pink City into a vibrant rainbow of colors.

One of the top spots for Holi celebrations here is the grand palace, where the royal family hosts a gala to support local charities.

Another great spot is the old Khasa Kothi Hotel, which teams up with the local tourism office for exciting events.

You can enjoy Rajasthani folk music, dance, and traditional gulal play there.

At the Govind Dev Ji Temple in the City Palace, a serene atmosphere takes over as devotees offer marigold flowers to idols of Krishna and Radha, accompanied by soulful bhajans.

Jaipur’s Holi also boasts unique attractions like ‘Gulaal Gotas’ or eco-friendly Water Cannon Bowls made from melted lacquer.

And don’t miss out on the Bollywood-themed parties happening at resorts, luxury hotels, and chic venues across the city.

Jaipur truly offers some of the best experiences for Holi celebration in India!

7. Hampi, Karnataka

You know, a lot of folks think that Holi fun is only up North in India. But surprise, surprise! Hampi flips that idea on its head.

They really know how to throw a Holi party there. Picture this: temples buzzing with joy, colors flying everywhere, and songs and dance echoing through the air.

It’s no wonder Hampi’s considered one of the best places to celebrate Holi in India, especially down South.

They kick things off with a big bonfire called Holika Dahan, then the next day, it’s all about painting the town – and each other – with vibrant colors.

Drumbeats keep the energy high, and when it’s time to wash off the rainbow, everyone heads to River Tungabhadra for a dip.

They say it’s not just about cleansing the colors, but also washing away your sins. And get this, the cherry on top?

The whole shebang goes down amidst the ancient ruins of the Vijayanagar Empire. Now that’s a Holi celebration you don’t wanna miss!

So if you’re up for some serious Holi fun, make sure to put Hampi on your list of places to visit during Holi celebration in India.

8. Shantiniketan, Kolkata

One of the best places to celebrate Holi in India is Bolpur near Kolkata, West Bengal.

Here, they celebrate Holi as Basanta Utsav, also known as the Spring Festival. This festive extravaganza was introduced by the renowned Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore.

It’s like Holi, but with its own special twist. The whole university gets involved in the fun, painting each other with vibrant colors.

Yellow is the star color here, making everyone look even more festive in their yellow outfits.

During Basanta Utsav, there’s a fantastic cultural program where students showcase their talents.

From soulful songs to mesmerizing dances, it’s an experience you won’t forget. This festival isn’t just about having a good time; it’s also a beautiful way to welcome spring.

And Shantiniketan is right up there among the best places to celebrate Holi in India.

Teachers and students alike join in, applying gulal on each other and spreading the joy of the festival far and wide.

It’s a celebration you’ll cherish forever.

9. Pushkar, Rajasthan

One of the best places to celebrate Holi in India is the holy town of Pushkar.

Here, Holi is celebrated with a lot of energy and excitement.

The main square becomes the center of a big party, filled with lively music and people covered in vibrant colors.

Adding to the fun are drinks like bhang thandai or lassi. You’ll see color bombs being thrown around and a lively crowd ready to have the best time.

The celebrations kick off with a traditional Holi bonfire on the eve of the festival.

Watching the Holika Dahan, where wooden logs and garlands are thrown into the fire, is quite a sight.

Cheers fill the air as the flames rise higher. Once the fire is out, people take embers home for good luck.

The next morning, the town looks like a colorful paradise as everyone joins in the playful splashing of colors. Pushkar truly offers one of the best Holi celebrations in India.

10. Delhi

Wondering where to go for the best Holi celebrations in India? Well, Delhi is where the magic happens!

Holi in Delhi is like a big, joyful party that turns the whole city into a colorful playground.

Everywhere you look, there are people throwing water balloons, spraying colors with pichkaris, and painting the town with clouds of gulal.

And if you’re wondering where to join in on the fun, look no further than the Holi Moo Festival (formerly known as the Holi Cow Festival).

It’s a blast with lots of Indian and international artists performing, guaranteeing a good time.

Plus, there are plenty of happening Holi parties at spots like Frenzy Adventure, the Garden of Five Senses, and Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

And the best part? You can enjoy all this in a safe environment with organic colors, delicious treats, and bhang drinks.

So, get ready to dance to DJ music, enjoy live performances, and even join in on some rain dances – it’s all part of the Delhi Holi celebrations!

11. Mumbai, Maharashtra

Mumbai’s Holi celebrations in 2024 promise an unforgettable experience.

The city’s top resorts, clubs, and grounds gear up for vibrant Holi parties, offering a pulsating atmosphere.

Everywhere you turn, Mumbai is alive with Holi cheer. From unique events to traditional festivities, there’s something for everyone.

Each year, the celebrations become more vivid, making Mumbai a must-visit destination for festival enthusiasts.

Immerse yourself in colorful memories and revel in the joy of Holi. Dance to energetic beats at luxury hotels, enjoy rain dances, and embrace the festive spirit.

Water parks also join the fun, bringing back childhood memories with unrestrained color splashes.

If you prefer a greener celebration, nature camps in Mumbai offer a serene escape. Come to Mumbai for Holi, and make memories to last a lifetime.

12. Purulia, West Bengal

Purulia stands out as one of the best places to celebrate Holi in India.

Tucked away in the westernmost part of West Bengal, it retains its natural beauty wonderfully. Picture this: emerald landscapes, lush hills, and dense woods all around.

It’s like stepping into a serene painting. The rustic vibe and peaceful atmosphere make it a destination you simply can’t miss.

But what really sets Purulia apart is its Holi celebrations, which are unlike any other in the country.

Three days before the festival, the locals kick off the festivities in traditional style.

They gather around the ancient Bandhar Deul temple, dating back to the 8th century, for the Holi or Dol festival as they call it.

Now, brace yourself for a burst of culture and color! The air fills with the beats of Chau dance, Natua dance, Darbari Jhumur, and the soul-stirring melodies of Baul musicians.

These performances infuse the Holi celebrations with a unique vibrancy, making it an unforgettable experience.

But wait, there’s more! What makes Purulia’s Holi truly special is the transformation of Ayodhya Pahar into a sea of red.

During Holi season, this hill gets draped in the fiery hues of Palash flowers, earning it the nickname “Land of Palash.”

It’s a sight straight out of a dream, and you absolutely have to see it.

And let’s not forget the local brew, Mohua, which adds an extra kick to the celebrations.

Sipping on this during Holi/Dol festivities in Purulia is a must-do experience.

So, if you’re looking for the best places to celebrate Holi in India, Purulia should definitely be on your list. Trust us, it’s a celebration you’ll cherish forever.

Enjoying Holi in India: Different Ways to Celebrate the Festival

You probably know that India is bursting with diverse cultures. That means there are loads of different ways people celebrate Holi across the country.

So, when you’re thinking about the best places to celebrate Holi in India, you’ve got plenty of options.

Take a peek at the types of Holi festival celebrations happening all over India, and pick which one you’d like to be a part of.

Lathmar Holi in Barsana Village, Uttar Pradesh

Many folks believe that Holi started in Barsana and other spots, like Vrindavan, where Lord Krishna lived.

During Holi, women dress up as ‘Gopis’ and playfully chase men with wooden sticks called ‘lathis’.

If a guy gets caught, well, he might end up having to dress as a woman and dance in front of everyone. It’s all part of the fun and traditions of Holi.

Khadi Holi in Kumaon Region, Uttarakhand

In the Kumaon region, people celebrate Holi with music and joy!

They put on their traditional outfits, sing special songs called Khari songs, and dance together in big groups.

They stroll through the village, saying hello to everyone they meet along the way.

This kind of Holi celebration is split into two types: Mahila Holi and Baithaki Holi.

It’s all about spreading happiness and enjoying the festive spirit!

Hola Mohalla in Punjab

At Gurudwara Anandpur Sahib in Punjab, there’s a special festival called Hola Mohalla. It lasts for three days and begins right after Holi.

This festival, also known as the Warrior Holi, is celebrated mainly by Nihang Sikhs.

They use this time to showcase their martial arts skills, sing devotional songs, and honor the teachings of their gurus. It’s a time of joy, unity, and reverence for the Sikh community.

Dol Jatra/Basant Utsav in West Bengal

In Shantiniketan, they have a special celebration called Basant Utsav to welcome spring.

It’s really fun! Kids wear bright saffron-colored clothes and sing and dance together. And then there’s Dol Jatra, which happens on Dol Purnima.

During this celebration, people carry idols of Krishna and Radha through the streets while everyone throws colorful powders at them.

It’s a lively and colorful festival that adds even more joy to the arrival of spring!

Shigmo in Goa

In the smallest state of India, Goa, Holi is a big deal! Hindus here celebrate by dancing traditional folk dances.

And guess what? Even tourists join in the fun, showing their excitement for the festival!

Phaguwa in Bihar

In Bihar, people call Holi “Phaguwa” in the local Bhojpuri dialect.

Before the fun begins with water, colorful powders, and dancing to folk songs, they make sure to light the Holika pyre.

It’s a special tradition that adds to the excitement of celebrating Holi in Bihar.

Yaoshang in Manipur

Yaoshang is a fantastic 6-day celebration of the Holi festival that starts on the full moon day.

It’s a blend of Hindu and local customs, and the main attraction is a lively Manipuri folk dance called Thabal chongba.

Manjal Kuli in Kerala

If you want a different kind of Holi celebration in India, head to Kerala!

They have a special way of celebrating called Manjal Kuli, which happens at the Konkani Temple of Gosripuram Thirumala.

It’s a unique experience you won’t want to miss!

Phakuwa in Assam

In Assam, Holi is called Phakuwa, much like West Bengal’s Dol Jatra.

They celebrate it for two days. On the first day, they burn clay huts to remember the story of Holika Dahan.

And on the second day, they have lots of fun painting each other with colors. It’s a special time filled with joy and traditions.

Rang Panchami in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh

In Maharashtra, Holi starts early. Five days after Holika Dahan, which is the bonfire night, people start celebrating with colors.

This day is also known as Ranga Panchami, adding even more fun to the festival!

Royal Holi in Udaipur, Rajasthan

Finally, let’s not forget the Royal Holi of Udaipur. It begins with locals lighting bonfires to signify the start of the celebration and to ward off any evil spirits.

The Mewar royal family of Udaipur really goes all out for Holi, with extravagant processions featuring beautifully adorned horses and the majestic royal band.

It’s a grand affair that adds a touch of regal splendor to the festivities.

Essential Holi Tips for a Happy and Harmless Celebration

Holi Safety Dos:

• Avoid using mud or egg during the festivities.
• Be careful not to apply colors around sensitive areas like the eyes, nose, mouth, and any open wounds.
• When playing with water balloons, don’t throw them too hard to avoid hurting anyone.
• If you have allergies or asthma, it’s best to refrain from playing with colors.
• Make sure kids are always supervised and not left alone with strangers during the celebrations.
• Don’t use kerosene to remove colors from your skin.
• Refrain from putting colors on pets like dogs and other animals to ensure their safety and well-being.

With so many fantastic options for celebrating Holi in India, you really can’t pick a wrong spot.

And guess what? There are even more incredible places across India for celebrating Holi than what we’ve talked about here!

So, just pick your favorite spot and dive into the joyous sea of colors that’ll paint your skin and fill your heart with happiness.

Wherever you decide to go, you’re sure to have a unique experience that’ll make your Holi celebration in India truly unforgettable.

Have you figured out where you’re heading for Holi yet?