Top Destinations in India: Where to Go on Holi

Holi is a vibrant festival filled with colors and joy. It is deeply connected to Lord Vishnu and is celebrated across India. However, if you’re wondering where to go on Holi, some places in the country are known for their grand and unique celebrations. Below are the top ten destinations in India to celebrate Holi.

1. Mathura and Vrindavan

These destinations offer the most traditional Holi celebrations. Locals begin with rituals at temples and in their homes before drenching each other in colored water and powders.

Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, and Vrindavan come alive with festive energy. The Banke Bihari Temple hosts one of the most vibrant celebrations, starting a day before Holi with a unique tradition of throwing flowers instead of colors. On the morning of Holi, a grand procession moves from Banke Bihari Temple to Mathura, where Holi is celebrated with great enthusiasm. The main festival of colors unfolds at the Dwarkadheesh Temple, where crowds gather to celebrate. At Vishram Ghat, bhang, a drink infused with marijuana, is traditionally served as part of the festivities.

2. Barsana, Uttar Pradesh

Near Mathura, the villages of Nandgaon and Barsana celebrate Holi with a unique tradition called Lathmar Holi. In this playful event, women chase and try to hit men with large sticks, while the men defend themselves with shields. This celebration takes place a week before Holi.

A few days before Lathmar Holi, Barsana also hosts Laddoo Holi, where people joyfully throw sweets at each other. After the festivities in Barsana, the celebrations continue in Nandgaon, keeping the spirit of Holi alive in these historic villages.

3. Shantiniketan, West Bengal

In West Bengal, Holi marks the end of winter and is celebrated as Basanta Utsav, the festival of spring. This tradition was introduced by Rabindranath Tagore at Vishva Bharati University, where students dress in vibrant attire and participate in cultural performances.

The celebrations include music, dance, and poetry, reflecting Bengal’s artistic heritage. As the event concludes, students joyfully throw colored powders at each other, embracing the festive spirit. Tourists are welcome to witness and enjoy these cultural festivities.

4. Purulia, West Bengal

Basanta Utsav in West Bengal is a three-day celebration filled with folk art and cultural performances. It begins two days before Holi, bringing communities together through music and dance. For those wondering where is the Holi festival celebrated with a unique cultural touch, this festival in West Bengal offers a vibrant experience.

In the Purulia district, the festival takes on a unique charm with traditional performances like Darbari Jhumur, Chau dance, Baul music, and Natua dance. Many visitors stay in small tents near the celebration grounds to fully immerse themselves in the festivities and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

5. Punjab

In Punjab, Holi takes on a bold and energetic form with the celebration of Hola Mohalla. This tradition, dating back to the 18th century, showcases physical strength and martial skills.

During the festival, participants engage in mock battles, sword fights, martial arts displays, and military-style exercises. The event also includes poetry recitals and discussions about bravery in historical battles. Anandpur Sahib is the best place to witness these grand celebrations, where the spirit of courage and festivity come together.

6. Udaipur, Rajasthan

In Udaipur, Holi is celebrated as a symbol of the victory of good over evil. The festival marks the legend of Holika and Prahlad, where Holika, who was immune to fire, perished while Prahlad emerged unharmed. For those wondering where to go on Holi for a royal celebration, Udaipur offers a grand experience with traditional rituals and festivities.

To honor this occasion, people light large bonfires in a ritual known as Holika Dahan, believed to ward off evil. In Udaipur, the royal family leads this tradition inside the City Palace. A grand procession, accompanied by a royal band, makes its way to the site of the ritual. The celebration concludes with the burning of a large effigy of Holika, adding to the festive spirit.

If you’re looking for a luxurious way to visit Udaipur, Rajasthan, the Deccan Odyssey luxury train is an excellent choice. Along with celebrating Holi in Udaipur, you can explore the city’s historic charm. A visit to the Old City offers a glimpse into its vibrant culture, with bustling, colorful bazaars that still retain their traditional appeal. This journey combines festive celebrations with a touch of heritage and elegance.

7. Mumbai

Dharavi, one of Mumbai’s most vibrant communities, offers a unique way to celebrate Holi. Where Holi is celebrated with a strong sense of community, Dharavi stands out as a place where tourists can join local children in the festivities for a fee, with a significant portion of the proceeds going toward the welfare of the children and the community.

The celebration is filled with colors, music, and dance, creating a lively atmosphere. Many visitors choose to celebrate Holi here, not just for the joy of the festival but also to support a meaningful cause.

The Deccan Odyssey luxury train offers a seamless way to explore remarkable destinations near Mumbai:

• Nashik – Known as the Wine Capital of India, this city boasts scenic vineyards and some of the country’s finest wineries.
• Aurangabad (Ellora Caves) – Home to the UNESCO-listed Ellora Caves, featuring breathtaking rock-cut temples and intricate carvings.
• Ajanta Caves – Famous for their stunning murals and sculptures that depict the life of Buddha, these caves are a masterpiece of ancient Indian art.
• Kolhapur – A city rich in heritage, known for its grand palaces, revered temples, and traditional arts.

Traveling on the Deccan Odyssey ensures a luxurious and immersive experience through these iconic destinations.

8. Delhi

Delhi is a livelier place to celebrate Holi with everyone, including strangers. If you walk down the street, every single person would spray colors at you. If you wish to enjoy cultural activities, take part in the Holi Moo Festival. This festival is organized with more than 40 different performers from around the world. The festival includes food, color, dance, and music.

9. Jaipur

Jaipur was once known for its grand Elephant Festival during Holi, where decorated elephants took center stage in events like tug-of-war, beauty contests, and cultural performances. However, to prevent animal cruelty, the festival was discontinued in 2012.

Despite this change, Jaipur continues to celebrate Holi with the same enthusiasm. The city comes alive with music, dance, and vibrant colors, ensuring a lively and festive atmosphere for both locals and visitors.

If you are planning to celebrate Holi in Jaipur, the Deccan Odyssey luxury train offers an unforgettable experience. Where is the Holi festival celebrated in a grand and royal manner? Jaipur is one of the top destinations, allowing you to immerse yourself in vibrant Holi celebrations while enjoying world-class amenities onboard. Along with the festival, you can explore Rajasthan’s rich heritage in ultimate comfort and style.

10. Hampi, Karnataka

Holi is widely celebrated in North India, but if you’re in the South and want to take part in the festivities, Hampi in Karnataka is the best place to visit. In this historic town, Holi is observed as a spiritual occasion with rituals and cultural activities held in its ancient temples. The celebrations include vibrant gatherings where people throw colored powders at each other. As part of the tradition, many wash off the colors by taking a dip in the river, adding to the unique charm of Holi in Hampi.