Best Destinations to Celebrate Holi in India for Tourists

‘Holi’- just the word fills the heart with excitement, doesn’t it? The festival of colours is not just a celebration; it’s an emotion, madness, and joy that unites everyone. As the spring streets come alive with bright Gulaal, laughter echoes in every corner, and the air smells of sweets and festive spirit, Holi turns India into a paradise of happiness. Picture this: someone smearing bright pink colour on your face, a dhol beating in the background, friends dancing under a rain of colour, and the sweetness of Gujiya melting in your mouth sounds magical! That’s the essence of Holi in India. From the legendary celebration of Mathura and Varidavan to the royal grandeur of Rajasthan and the soulful celebration in Varanasi, every place has its own unique Holi waiting to be experienced. So, if you are ready to let loose, say ‘Bura Na Mano Holi Hai’ and embrace the colour and dance like no one is watching. The entire country celebrates this vibrant festival, but the cream of celebration is well-enjoyed by the country’s specific destinations. Let’s read them:

Best Places To Celebrate Holi In India

If you are planning a trip to India during Holi, here are the best places to celebrate Holi in India where you can witness and take part in this grand festival:

1. Mathura and Vrindavan: 

No place in India celebrates Holi with as much devotion and enthusiasm as Mathura and Vrindavan, the land associated with Lord Krishna. These twin cities in Uttar Pradesh are the heart of Holi festivities. The celebration here lasts for over a week and includes several unique events. Nand Gaon and Barsana Lathmar Holi is a fascinating tradition where women playfully beat men with sticks, and men try to shield themselves. The ‘Phoolon Ki Holi’ in Banke Bihari temple, Vrindavan, is an engrossing Holi where, instead of colours, flowers are showered on devotees. You can also enjoy a heartwarming Huranga celebration, a unique event where women playfully drench men with water and colour. Barsana, Mathura, and Vrindavan Holi celebrations are deeply spiritual, energetic, and unforgettable for any traveller looking for divine and immersive experiences.

2. Jaipur and Udaipur:

If you want to celebrate Holi in a regal style, Jaipur and Udaipur are the perfect destinations that blend traditional Holi celebrations with royal resplendence and elegance. The royal family of Jaipur hosts the royal celebrations at the City Palace, where visitors can witness folk dances, listen to music, and enjoy sophisticated colour plays. The Maharaja of Udaipur leads a grand procession from the city palace to light the Holika bonfire. The Holi celebration around the Govind Dev-ji Temple offers you a more religious and devotional atmosphere where Lord Krishna and Radha Rani deities are heaped with marigold flowers and joyous ‘Holi bhajans.’ You should not miss to witness the streets of Udaipur turning vibrant with joyful people playing Holi near lakes and temples. Tourists in Jaipur and Udaipur can experience a more organized cultural holi while still being part of the colour extravaganza in public areas.

3. Pushkar:

Pushkar, a small but vibrant town in Rajasthan, is known for hosting one of the top Holi destinations in India. With its high-energy crowd, loud music, and colourful chaos, it has become a favourite among international travellers and backpackers. The main square in Pushkar turns into an open-air dance floor with DJ Holi parties playing Bollywood and electronic music and throwing paint bombs at each other. Many cafes and guest houses promote organic colour, ensuring a safe, fun and eco-friendly Holi experience. Pushkar is a must-visit destination for travellers looking for an electrifying and tourist-friendly Holi experience.

4. Delhi:

Delhi, the capital of India, offers diverse Holi celebrations catering to every kind of traveller, coercing them to say ‘Holi Hai.’ From traditional gatherings to world parties, Delhi has it all. A massive Holi Moo Festival featuring live music performances, dance floors, and organic colours, popular among expats and young travellers. Experience the charm of old Delhi’s traditional Holi in the lanes of Chandi Chowk, where people celebrate with colours, sweets, and festive vibes.  Many foreign embassies in Delhi host exclusive Holi celebrations in India for foreigners and offer a safe and unique way to celebrate. Delhi is perfect for tourists who want both the traditional and modern aspects of Holi in one place.

5. Varanasi:

Holi in Varanasi, the spiritual capital of India, is a surreal experience on the Ganges River. The city’s ghats and streets come alive with colours, music, and religious fervour. The festival begins with bonfires known as Holika Dham on the ghats of the Ganges, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. Devotees and tourists smear colour on each other while enjoying local music and bhajans at Assi Ghat. A Holi special drink made with cannabis (bhang)-infused milk is a popular delicacy in Varanasi that you can’t miss. If you want a deeply cultural and spiritual Holi experience, Varanasi is the place that should be included in your Holi tour packages in India.

6. Shantiniketan: 

Shantiniketan in West Bengal offers a unique and artistic take on Holi, known as Basanta Utsav (Spring Festival), started by Rabindranath Tagore. Students of Visva-Bharati University dress in yellow, sing Tagore’s songs and perform traditional dances. Instead of loud music and wild celebrations, Basanta Utsav is a serene and elegant way to celebrate Holi. For those who want a sophisticated and cultural experience, Shantiniketan is a perfect destination for the Holi festival in India.

7. Hampi:

While Holi is more prevalent in North India, Hampi in Karnataka is one of the few South Indian destinations where Holi is celebrated with great enthusiasm. The ancient temples and boulders provide a stunning backdrop for festivities, performing rituals, and engaging activities. The celebrations here include drum circles, folk dances, and a lively atmosphere with a unique tradition of washing colour in the evening and taking a dip in the river. If you want to experience Holi in a historical and off-beat destination, Hampi is an amazing choice to make the song ‘Rang Barse’ come true.

Pick Your Perfect Holi Destination!

Holi in India is not just about throwing colours; it’s about spreading happiness, breaking barriers, and embracing life with open arms. The laughter of children, the energy of the crowd, the aroma of fresh Gujiyas, and the sweet intoxication of Thandai all come together to create memories.  No matter where you celebrate, one thing is certain, Holi will fill your heart with joy, your soul with colour, and your journey with unforgettable experiences. Get ready to dance in the rain of colours and shout at the top of your lungs, ‘Holi Hai.’ Pack your bags, book your Holi tour packages in India with Memorable India and be a part of India’s most vibrant celebration.