Holi 2024:Top Places To Celebrate Holi In India [2024]

Holi, the festival of colors, is an exceptional celebration that paints the streets of India. As we approach Holi which is set to be celebrated on 25th March of this year, it's time to plan your visit to India and dive into the colorful festivities. 

Holi is a time when people come together to celebrate the triumph of good over evil with colors. It is one of the most anticipated and celebrated festivals in India, people from around the world come together to enjoy the colors and festivities. 

This year we have curated a list of the top places to celebrate Holi in India covering destinations like Mathura, Vrindavan, Barsana and the royal Holi experience in Udaipur and Jaipur. So pack your bags as we share the top destinations to celebrate Holi this year with full enthusiasm and energy.

Top Places To Celebrate Holi

If you want to experience the true essence of Holi and witness the diversity of traditions associated with it, India offers a plethora of destinations that will surely create a once-in-a-lifetime moment in your life. Grab your Pichkaris now (Water Guns) and get ready to paint the town red and blue, green, yellow…

1. Mathura, Vrindavan And Barsana

When it comes to celebrating Holi, Mathura, Vrindavan, and Barsana hold special significance as they are considered the birthplaces of Holi. Lakhs of people visit these towns to celebrate Holi in its true form. 

Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, is steeped in mythology and folklore. It is believed that Lord Krishna played Holi with his devotees here, making it an integral part of the city's culture. The main Holi celebrations in Mathura take place at Dwarkadheesh Temple, where locals and tourists alike gather to participate in exhilarating song and dance performances. 

Vrindavan takes Holi celebrations to a whole new level, the Banke Bihari temple is the main highlight during Holi. Devotees eagerly enjoy playing Holi on the streets and eagerly wait for their chance to apply colors to Lord Krishna in the Banke Bihari temple. People come out to the streets with colors and Water Guns to enjoy the festival of colors with everyone. 

In nearby Barsana, a unique tradition called "Lathmar Holi" takes place. Women playfully beat men with sticks (lathis) while men try to shield themselves using shields (dhal). This symbolic recreation depicts Krishna's mischievous attempts to woo Radha by teasing her friends in her village.

2. Shantiniketan: An Unexpected Feature In The List

Shantiniketan is located in West Bengal, it is also the hometown of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. The main attraction of celebrating Holi in Shantiniketan is the traditional “Basant Utsav” or Spring Festival which was first organized by Rabindranath Tagore himself. Basant Utsav combines Holi with cultural performances on various themes by the students of Visva-Bharti University.

During Basanta Utsav, students dress in traditional attire known as "Pallavi" and participate in colorful processions. They sing and dance to Rabindra Sangeet (songs composed by Rabindranath Tagore) while smearing colors on each other. Apart from the Basanta Utsav celebrations at Visva-Bharati University, you can also explore the town's vibrant markets buzzing with stalls selling handicrafts, traditional clothes, jewelry, and delicious local food.

3. Varanasi: Celebrating Holi On The Ancient Ghats

Varanasi has its roots deep in spirituality and rich traditions and when it comes to Holi, Varanasi is at the top of every traveler’s Holi Goals. Celebrations in Varanasi start with a procession known as “Gulal Kund” where devotees gather at the Vishwanath Temple and move towards the Manikarnika Ghat. As the procession proceeds in the city, people shower colors from their windows, streets get filled with Gulal and the cheerful songs throughout the city take you to a whole new level. 

The main highlight of Holi in Varanasi is the sight of the ghats, especially Assi Ghat and Dashashwamedh Ghat. As the evening approaches, the ghats come alive with traditional folk performances, cultural programs, and bonfires where people gather to sing and dance. 

4. Udaipur And Jaipur: Celebrating Holi With The Heritage 

Jaipur and Udaipur are known for their Grand heritage and architectural wonders. Udaipur, also known as the "City of Lakes," becomes gets more life during Holi. The City Palace is where the royal family hosts a grand celebration for locals and visitors. The palace is beautifully decorated with colorful decorations, and the festivities include traditional music, dance performances, and a play of colors.

Jaipur, on the other hand, offers a blend of traditions and modern festivities during Holi. The Pink City takes on a different aura as people come together to celebrate this joyous occasion. One of the major attractions during Holi in Jaipur is the procession from City Palace to Dhula Mahal, which showcases traditional Rajasthani culture. The procession features beautifully decorated elephants and camels along with folk dancers and musicians.

5. Pushkar: Holi With Hippies

This small town in Rajasthan offers a hippie vibe that adds a whole new dimension to the festival of colors. 

During Holi in Pushkar, you can expect lively parties, bonfires, and music that will keep you grooving throughout the festivities. The town comes alive with colors and an electric atmosphere. People gather at the ghats of Pushkar Lake to indulge in playful water fights and smear each other with gulal (colored powders). 

Hippie cafes and rooftop restaurants are popular hangout spots during Holi in Pushkar where you can relax, enjoy live music performances, and try delicious local cuisines. If you're seeking a Holi celebration that goes beyond conventional customs, head to Pushkar for a truly offbeat experience.

6. Hampi: Colouring The Ruins

Did you know that Hampi also offers something mesmerizing during the festival of Holi? Holi celebrations in Hampi usually happen around the Virupaksha Temple, one of the oldest functioning temples in India. Devotees gather here to seek blessings before joining in the exuberant play of colors. In addition to traditional rituals, you can also witness cultural performances and folk dances during this time. And if you're looking for a unique way to celebrate Holi amidst historical ruins, Hampi should be on your travel list for 2024!

Tips To Make Your Holi Trip Unforgettable

• Dress Appropriately: Wear old clothes that you don't mind getting stained with color. Choose for light and comfortable fabrics that dry quickly.
• Protect Your Skin and Hair: Apply a generous amount of oil or moisturizer on your skin and hair before stepping out to play Holi. This will create a protective layer against the color and make it easier to wash off later.
• Play Safe: Use natural eco-friendly colors instead of harsh synthetic ones, as they can cause skin irritation. It's also advisable to avoid getting colored water or powder in your eyes or mouth.
• Stay Hydrated: Keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day, as playing Holi under the sun can be tiring.
• Respect Local Customs: Familiarize yourself with local traditions, and respect them while participating in Holi celebrations. 

Conclusion

Holi 2024 is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant celebrations that India has to offer. From the birthplace of Holi in Mathura and Vrindavan to the unique traditions of Barsana, there is a destination for every Holi enthusiast.

The countdown has begun for Holi 2024, So why wait? Plan your trip to India with India Tours and get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant colors, music, and joyous atmosphere of Holi 2024. Dance along with locals, indulge in delicious festive treats, and create memories that will last a lifetime.