India, a country known for its diversity, offers a variety of festivals that add different shades to its rich cultural heritage. Of all these festivals, Holi is celebrated with great enthusiasm across the country. As one parades through the streets, the language and forms change to showcase the various celebrations of different communities. This festival, which symbolizes the victory over evil and the arrival of spring, is celebrated with great enthusiasm across the country. In bustling cities and peaceful coastal villages, Holi is celebrated with joy and attracts millions of people from near and far.
This guide presents the 10 best places in India for the 2024 Holi festival, where people from different backgrounds come together to enjoy the festival and create lasting memories.
Mathura and Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh
Mathura and Vrindavan are located in the Braj region of Uttar Pradesh and are known as the holy places where Lord Krishna was born, making them popular places to celebrate the Holi festival in India. Mathura in particular is famous for its lavish Holi celebrations and transforms into a paradise for the festival. It is considered to be one of the few places where one can witness the divine miracles associated with Lord Krishna. The festivities, known as “Lathmar Holi” and “Phoolon wali Holi”, last for a week and attract many participants and visitors worldwide. The celebrations at the Dwarkadheesh temple in Mathura begin with the famous “Laddoo Holi”,” where devotees throw sweets and colored powder at each other. In Vrindavan, the Banke Bihari temple hosts a spectacular Holi procession with devotional songs and fascinating dance performances. In both Mathura and Vrindavan, there is music, dance and bright colors that make the Holi festival an unforgettable experience for all.
During the Holi festival in Mathura, you can witness a variety of activities such as the morning chants at the Dwarkadhish temple, the use of colorful gulal and lively processions from the Vishram Ghat to the Holi Gate, as well as participate in several music and dance festivals. During Holi in Mathura, you will have the opportunity to see the Ras Leelas and Dahi Handi programs.
Barsana, Uttar Pradesh
Located near Mathura in India, Barsana is renowned for its unique and traditional “Lathmar Holi” celebrations, a must-see place to experience the essence of Holi. As per legends, Lord Krishna went to Barsana to celebrate Holi with his dear Radha and her friends. In return, the women of Barsana playfully beat the men with sticks to symbolise Krishna’s playful teasing by Radha.
The first thing that happens is an animated “Lathmar Holi” parade which sees a steady stream of men from neighbouring villages hoping for some light-hearted cane strokes from their ladies. The whole place is full of colours as dhol drums reverberate through the air accompanied by indigenous folk music.
The festival remains etched in your memory because of its vibrant environment characterised by the high energy levels among those present. It truly encapsulates what Holi represents and provides an insight into India’s diverse cultural heritage and traditions of different regions. Whether you are a non-resident or a resident, celebrating Holi at Barsana will assure you an adventurous and ecstatic happening leaving all participants with unforgettable memories
Jaipur, Rajasthan
Jaipur, popularly known as the Pink City, is a wonderful destination to experience Holi, the festival of colors. At this unique time, the entire city turns into a lively spectrum as people of different ages participate in the celebrations. Everywhere you go is teeming with happy and excited people throwing colors, dancing to folk music and indulging in treats.
One of the main attractions of the Holi festival in Jaipur is the extravagant festivities hosted by the royal families in the magnificent palaces. These events are truly impressive and give an insight into the rich heritage and culture of Rajasthan. In addition, the city also offers a range of other events and entertainment options, such as Rajasthani folk music and dance performances, which add to the lively ambiance.
The majestic City Palace and the beautiful Hawa Mahal in Jaipur are iconic landmarks that provide a stunning backdrop to the Holi celebrations. At this time, these ancient sites are ablaze with bright colors and vibrancy, and decorated elephants, camels and horses march in grand parades.
The warm hospitality of the locals makes the Holi festival in Jaipur a very special experience. Whether you are visiting or live here, everyone is welcome to join in the celebrations. The sense of unity and camaraderie at Holi in Jaipur is truly heartening and creates a perfect setting to enjoy the royal essence of this festival.
The Holi festival in Jaipur is an enchanting event that unites people in festivity and harmony. It is a moment to set aside all differences and share love, joy and of course colors. If you want to experience an unforgettable Holi festival, head to the colorful streets of Jaipur!
Udaipur, Rajasthan
Udaipur, located in the heart of Rajasthan, is the perfect destination to celebrate Holi in a luxurious way and feel like a king. The celebrations begin with the Holika Dahan custom, a traditional event hosted by the prestigious Mewar royal family.
Affectionately known as the Venice of the East, Udaipur is a stunning city surrounded by the magnificent Aravalli hills, providing a peaceful and captivating backdrop to the Holi celebrations. During the Holi festival, the impressive City Palace and the peaceful Lake Pichola are the main attractions and form the centrepiece of the celebrations.
With the arrival of Holi, the colorful decorations on the streets of Udaipur create a vibrant atmosphere for the upcoming joyous festival. Cultural performances, colorful parades and traditional ceremonies take place throughout the city, enchanting tourists and residents alike.
The festive atmosphere is enhanced by the tantalising aroma of traditional sweets and delicacies in the air. Exploring the historical sites, marvelling at the beautiful architecture of the City Palace or a cruise on the serene Lake Pichola all contribute to an unforgettable Holi experience in Udaipur.
Udaipur is a unique destination to celebrate the vibrant Holi festival and the spirit of the festival can be felt in every corner of the city. Whether you are new to the city or a regular visitor, the enchanting and captivating atmosphere of Udaipur during the Holi festival is sure to leave an unforgettable impression and ensure lasting memories for the future.
Pushkar, Rajasthan
An attractive town in the Aravalli Hills, Pushkar is well known for its religious environment and active life. It is a well-known place because of its holy lake and customs. In March (spring), this small township becomes a colourful central point of attraction for the people who congregate here to celebrate Holi.
To start with, before the big event colorful processions are held as traditional ceremonies are performed and there is an air of celebration all over. This ceremony attracts both local citizens and tourists because it takes place at two focal points: the Brahma temple, which is itself an attraction, and Pushkar Lake that lies calmly beside it.
Throughout the day we witness drumming beats of dhol drums along the streets and merry cries “Holi hai!” coming from everywhere. Everyone takes part in dancing and free-for-all color throwing games during the festivities.
It is really fun to go to Pushkar for Holi festival. The glittering atmosphere in town adds up to enhance festive magic making one happy together memories stay on forever and ever.
At the same time, there are a number of enjoyable activities that one can take part in when celebrating Holi festival in Pushkar. Experimenting with colors near the ghats and temples or tasting Gujhiya, the traditional sweet, brings joy every moment. There is also an invitation to guests to compete for Bhang Thandai which is a traditional drink that brightens up your spirit during Holi celebrations.
Whether you fully participate in vibrant rituals or just enjoy the beautiful sights and sounds of this lovely city; a unique experience awaits you during Holi in Pushkar. This is an exceptional event where happiness meets culture and religious beliefs in perfect harmony.
Anandpur Sahib, Punjab
Anandpur Sahib is a holy city placed in the foothills of the Shivalik Hills and is famous for its vibrant Sikh customs and historical Gurudwaras. Holi festival, popularly known as “Hola Mohalla”, showcases Sikh community’s martial arts with breathtaking acts of bravery. Alongside dancing parades representing the rich cultural heritage of Punjab with colorful galore there are imitation fights, displays on martial arts among others. Traditional celebrations can be attended while Nihang troopers put up great shows with lovely dishes at gurudwaras such as langar (community supper). The town boasts an active ambience that hosts multiple cultural activities during the festival of Holi that extols bravery and unity.
In conclusion
India offers a range of exciting places to celebrate Holi in 2024; from cool beaches in Goa to the historical streets of Mathura. The color festival has something for everyone whether you are looking for vibrant festivity, immersive cultural experiences or traditional practices and cultural involvement. Plan a trip to one of the top ten Indian places to celebrate Holi in 2024 alongside your family members. It’s time to have fun amidst India’s colorful landscapes and a strong historical background during this eventful season.
