Holi 2025- 10 Places To Enjoy Holi Celebration In India

Holi, often referred to as the "Festival of Colors," is one of India’s most vibrant and joyous celebrations. Rooted in Hindu mythology, it signifies the victory of good over evil and marks the arrival of spring. Celebrated on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Phalguna (February–March), Holi is a time for people to come together, forget differences, and spread happiness.

The festival begins with Holika Dahan on the night before Holi, where bonfires are lit to symbolize the triumph of devotion over evil, inspired by the legend of Prahlad and Holika. The next day, known as Rangwali Holi, is filled with laughter, music, dance, and the playful throwing of colored powders (gulal) and water. Streets, homes, and public spaces turn into a canvas of colors as people celebrate with friends and family.

While Holi is celebrated across India, different regions have their own unique traditions. From the Lathmar Holi of Barsana to the Basant Utsav of West Bengal and the royal festivities of Rajasthan, each place adds its own charm to the festival. Holi is more than just a celebration—it’s a symbol of unity, renewal, and the joy of life.

Holi, the festival of colors and joy, is deeply associated with Lord Vishnu. While the entire country embraces this vibrant celebration, certain destinations offer a more immersive and unforgettable experience.

# Mathura and Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh

For a traditional Holi experience, Mathura and Vrindavan are the best places to visit. Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, and Vrindavan come alive with colors, rituals, and celebrations. The festivities begin at the Banke Bihari Temple a day before Holi, where people throw flowers at each other. On Holi morning, a grand procession moves from Banke Bihari Temple to Mathura, culminating in a colorful celebration at the Dwarkadheesh Temple. Another highlight is the Bhang (a cannabis-infused drink) served at Vishram Ghat.

# Barsana, Uttar Pradesh

Located near Mathura, Barsana and Nandgaon celebrate Holi uniquely with Lathmar Holi. Here, women playfully hit men with sticks while the men try to shield themselves. This tradition takes place a week before Holi. Prior to Lathmar Holi, the town also hosts Laddoo Holi, where people throw sweets at each other. The celebrations continue in Nandgaon after Barsana.

# Shantiniketan, West Bengal

In West Bengal, Holi marks the arrival of spring and is known as Basanta Utsav. Rabindranath Tagore introduced this cultural celebration at Vishva Bharati University, where students dress in vibrant outfits and participate in dance, music, and cultural performances. The festivities conclude with everyone playfully applying colored powders to one another. Tourists are welcome to join in the celebrations.

# Purulia, West Bengal

This region hosts a three-day-long Basanta Utsav, featuring traditional folk arts like Chau dance, Darbari Jhumur, Baul music, and Natua dance. The festival begins two days before Holi, with locals and visitors staying in tents to fully immerse themselves in the celebrations.

# Punjab – Anandpur Sahib

Punjab celebrates a unique, energetic version of Holi known as Hola Mohalla. Dating back to the 18th century, this festival showcases martial arts, mock battles, sword fighting, and military-style drills. Poems and discussions about bravery also form an essential part of the event. The best place to witness this grand spectacle is Anandpur Sahib.

# Udaipur, Rajasthan

Holi in Udaipur is steeped in royal traditions and commemorates the victory of good over evil. The celebrations begin with Holika Dahan, where bonfires are lit to symbolize the destruction of the demon Holika. The royal family hosts a grand procession at the City Palace, concluding with the burning of a large effigy of Holika.

# Mumbai – Dharavi Holi

For those looking to celebrate Holi with a social cause, the Dharavi slum in Mumbai offers a unique experience. Visitors can participate in Holi celebrations with local children by paying a fee, which is used to support community welfare. The festivities include music, dance, and, of course, plenty of colors.

# Delhi

Delhi offers an energetic and immersive Holi experience. Walking through the streets, you’ll be covered in colors by friendly strangers. For a more structured celebration, the Holi Moo Festival features performances by over 40 artists from around the world, along with food, music, and dance.

# Jaipur, Rajasthan

Jaipur once hosted a spectacular Elephant Festival for Holi, featuring elephant beauty contests, folk performances, and tug-of-war matches. However, to prevent animal cruelty, this tradition was discontinued in 2012. Today, the city still celebrates Holi with music, dance, and colorful revelry.

# Hampi, Karnataka

While Holi is predominantly celebrated in North India, Hampi in Karnataka is one of the few places in the South where the festival is observed with great enthusiasm. The historic temples host rituals and cultural performances, and the celebration culminates in a vibrant color-throwing event. Tradition dictates that participants cleanse themselves by taking a dip in the river afterward.