Holi is also known as “Festival of Colours” or “Festival of Love,” it is one of the most vibrant and joyful celebrations in India that you cannot witness anywhere else in the world. Holi is celebrated with great energy across India; everyone comes together to play in this beautiful festival. You should come at this time of the year and play along. It marks the arrival of spring, the end of winter, and the triumph of good over evil. Here are some of the best Holi celebration in India that you should attend:
1. Mathura, Uttar Pradesh
Mathura is the birthplace of Lord Krishna and is also the birthplace of this beautiful Holi festival. Mathura, Vrindavan and other nearby regions celebrates week-long Holi attracting visitors from all over the world. Braj ki Holi is not just a grand celebration but also very unique. You can experience Lathmar Holi in Barsana, where women playfully hit men with sticks. Phoolon Ki Holi in Vrindavan (flower Holi in Vrindavan) is a mesmerizing event where flowers replace colors. Whole city comes alive with vibrant colors and joyous dance on the streets of Mathura and Vrindavan. The spiritual and festive vibe of Holi celebration in Mathura makes it a must-visit experience for anyone wanting to witness one of India’s most iconic festivals.
2. Santiniketan, West Bengal
Holi in Santiniketan, is celebrated as Basanta Utsav (Spring Festival), abd was first introduced by Rabindranath Tagore. Unlike the usual chaotic one-day Holi celebration, it is a three-day celebration where women dressed in yellow sari, sing Tagore’s songs, perform traditional dances, and apply abir (dry colors) with respect. Basanta Utsav Santiniketan beautifully showcases Bengali heritage, making it a must-visit for those seeking a unique cultural Holi celebration in an elegant and peaceful way.
3. Pushkar, Rajasthan
Holi in Pushkar is one of the most energetic and vibrant celebrations in India. In fact, Holi festival in Pushkar is like a global celebration attracting people from all over the world. Main square is the place where you can find the massive gathering, people dance to DJ music, throw gulal (colored powder), and enjoy the festive chaos. Holi parties in Pushkar is filled with music, bhang, and joyous laughter, creating a lively atmosphere. Unlike traditional Holi, Pushkar’s version feels like a super energetic global party of colors, where people from different cultures unite to celebrate. For party people this is a must have experience.
4. Anandpur, Punjab
Holi in Anandpur Sahib, is celebrated as Hola Mohalla, a unique Sikh festival that showcases martial arts, bravery, and tradition. So, you can guess this is also a unique Holi celebration, where Nihang warriors performing Gatka (Sikh martial arts), sword fighting, horse riding, and mock battles. Started by Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, it symbolizes strength and valour of Sikh community. You can also experience this Punjabi Holi in other parts of Punjab. Hola Mohalla festival is a must-visit for those seeking a unique Holi experience and wants to know about the warrior spirit of Sikh community.
5. Hampi, Karnataka
Hampi is one of the best places to celebrate Holi in India. Unlike Holi in south India which does not celebrate it much, Holi in Hampi is filled with colors, music and dance which makes it rare and lively celebration in South India. The festival begins with color-throwing in the streets, followed by drumming, folk music, and dancing near the ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire. People also celebrate and take a dip in Tungabhadra River. Hampi’s unique blend of heritage and festivity makes it a perfect destination for those who are in south India and seeking a cultural yet fun-filled Holi experience.
These are some of the best places for Holi in India also you can see these celebrations are very unique as well. There are more unique Holi celebrations in India, we see them in another article.
Until next time, keep travelling and take care of Nature.
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