Among India's religious festivals, the festival attracts the most international visitors. Although Indians play with coloured powders and pigments, foreigners join in the fun and are warmly welcomed. Individuals are free to let their hair down and enjoy themselves. If you want to explore different parts of India during Holi, these are the top spots to celebrate Holi in India that you should visit.
Do Experience Extravagant Holi Celebration At Mathura:
Holi is celebrated in Mathura, and for obvious reasons. After all, why shouldn't a location be known for the festival that originated there? Mathura, recognised as the birthplace of Lord Krishna and the location of some of His miracles, is highly sought after by devotees, especially during Holi. Mathura's temples offer extravagant holiday celebrations. Some of these are India's most spectacular and grandiose Holi celebrations. Being a part of these celebrations is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
The colourful Holi procession begins late in the afternoon from Vishram Ghat and concludes near Holi Gate. The Dwarkadheesh Temple, where throngs of devotees converge on Holi morning, is the main attraction for Holi celebrations. In a gulal-infused milieu, they revel in the joyful spirit with music, dance, and a chant. In the week before Holi, the Sri Krishna Janmasthan temple puts on a spectacular spectacle. Visit Mathura to witness the splendour of this Indian festival.
You Can't-Miss Vrindavan's 'Phoolon Ki Holi':
Vrindavan, Lord Krishna's playland, is highly revered by Hindus and is visited all year. Holi is a festival that draws a large number of Vaishnavas to Vrindavan. The Banke Bihari Temple is the focal point of the Holi celebrations in Vrindavan. The celebration lasts a week, beginning with flower splashes or Phoolon ki Holi, continuing with Widows Holi, and culminating with a colour riot a day before Holi. In this Krishna-obsessed town, you will see people soaked in various colours.
Another major destination that observes the unique colour played by widows is the Gopinath Temple. A massive amount of marigold flowers combined with clouds of gulal create a stunningly surreal view, almost like a live photograph! Vrindavan Holi is enhanced by Krishna's devotional hymns. Don't miss out on this magnificent sight, and come to Vrindavan for an unforgettable Holi celebration! This will be your most memorable trip to Vrindavan.
The 'Lathmar Holi' Of Barsana:
Barsana is one of the best places in India to celebrate Holi. People are drawn to the Holi celebrations in Barsana, popularly known as Lathmar Holi. This is a Holi festival celebration with a twist in which men must protect themselves from the fun beatings of women. Women from Barasana and Nandgaon, two Mathura suburbs, beat men with sticks, forcing men to defend themselves with shields. Lathmar Holi is held a week before the major Holi celebration.
The Royal Manner Holi Celebration At Udaipur:
Visit Udaipur to experience Holi celebrations in a royal manner. In Udaipur, Holi is an imperial affair in which the royal family participates. The festivities begin with Holika dahan, when the local Maharaj lights the ceremonial bonfire in the courtyard of the royal palace. This is referred to as Mewar Holika dahan. The townspeople then perform a folk dance called 'Gair' around the flames. Following that, a royal procession departs from Shambhu Niwas Palace and returns to the royal house at Manek Chowk. In the parade, the royals are sat on bedecked elephants, horses, and camels, escorted by the royal music ensemble. Guests can now order beverages and meals at the palace. Ultimately, the celebration concludes with spectacular fireworks.
Visit Rajasthan's Pink City During Holi:
The pink city of Jaipur is all colours during the Holi festival. The capital city of Rajasthan offers a vibrant experience. In Jaipur, Holi transforms the Pink City into a rainbow. The gala celebrations in the palace are the highlights of Jaipur's Holi celebrations. The royal family hosts it to benefit local organisations. The ancient Khasa Kothi Hotel hosts functions with the help of the local tourism authority. Traditional Rajasthani folk music and dance, as well as a good gulal performance, are featured on the programme. A devout mood is established at the Govind Dev Ji Temple in the City Palace, where marigold flowers are donated to Krishna and Radha idols. Bhajans or hymns echo about, bringing a soulful touch to the atmosphere.