Mathura and Vrindavan Holi 2026: Complete date wise schedule of Lathmar Holi, Phoolon wali Holi and Rangwali Holi

Mathura-Vrindavan Holi 2026: Full Schedule - date and timings (image: canva)

Braj Holi 2026 in Mathura, Vrindavan, Barsana, Nandgaon, and Gokul features ten days of vibrant festivities, including Lathmar Holi, Phoolon Wali Holi, Holika Dahan (March 3), and Rangwali Holi (March 4), attracting pilgrims and tourists.

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Braj Holi 2026 in Mathura, Vrindavan, Barsana, Nandgaon and Gokul will once again showcase the most vibrant and spiritually rich Holi celebrations in India. While the rest of the country celebrates Holi for one or two days, the Braj region hosts nearly ten days of festivities rooted in devotion to Lord Krishna. From Laddumar Holi and Lathmar Holi to Phoolon Wali Holi, Holika Dahan and Rangwali Holi, each day follows a traditional sequence guided by the Hindu Panchang.

According to the Panchang, Holika Dahan 2026 will be observed on March 3 and Rangwali Holi or Dhulandi will be celebrated on March 4, 2026. However, the Braj Holi celebrations begin much earlier, drawing pilgrims and tourists from across India and abroad.

Complete Braj holi 2026 date wise schedule: Mathura, Vrindavan and more

Note: Due to the Lunar Eclipse on March 3, 2026, temple visit hours may be restricted. Devotees are advised to plan rituals after 6:47 PM IST.

Laddu Mar Holi in Barsana

The Holi season in Braj begins with Laddu Mar Holi at the Radha Rani Temple in Barsana. Priests shower laddus from the temple balcony as a symbol of welcome and joy. The celebration usually takes place between 3 PM and 5 PM and marks the invitation to Nandgaon for the next day’s festivities.

Lathmar Holi in Barsana and Nandgaon

Lathmar Holi is the most famous event of Braj Holi 2026. On February 25, women of Barsana playfully strike men from Nandgaon with wooden sticks while the men protect themselves with shields. The event takes place near Radha Rani Temple between 2 PM and 5 PM.

The next day, on February 26, the celebration shifts to Nandgaon at Nand Bhawan Temple, where the roles are reversed. Both days are filled with folk songs, drum beats and vibrant colors.

Phoolon wali Holi and Rangbhari Ekadashi in Vrindavan

On February 27, Phoolon Wali Holi will be celebrated at Banke Bihari Temple and other temples in Vrindavan. Instead of colored powder, flower petals are showered on devotees during evening aarti. This gentle celebration creates a devotional atmosphere.

Rangbhari Ekadashi marks the formal beginning of color Holi in temples. On this day, gulal is offered to Lord Krishna, symbolizing the start of festive colors in Braj.

Widow Holi in Vrindavan

Widow Holi at Gopinath Temple and nearby ashrams in Vrindavan has become a symbol of social inclusion. Widows, who were traditionally excluded from festivals, now participate in color celebrations. The event reflects compassion, dignity and social reform.

Holika Dahan 2026 in Braj

Holika Dahan will be observed on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 after sunset. Community bonfires will be lit across Mathura, Vrindavan, Barsana and Gokul. Devotees gather at places like Vishram Ghat and Dwarkadhish Temple to perform rituals and pray for the victory of good over evil.

A Total Lunar Eclipse will occur on March 3, 2026. Temple rituals and bonfire timings may be adjusted, with ceremonies expected after 6:47 PM IST once the Sutak period ends. Phalguna Purnima Tithi begins on the evening of March 2 and ends on the evening of March 3. Holika Dahan is performed when Purnima prevails after sunset.

Rangwali Holi or Dhulandi 2026

The main Holi festival will be celebrated on Wednesday, March 4, 2026. Streets of Mathura and Vrindavan come alive with colors, devotional songs and festive gatherings from morning until afternoon.

Areas around Banke Bihari Temple and Dwarkadhish Temple are especially vibrant. Traditional sweets such as gujiya and thandai add to the festive spirit.

Dauji Ka Huranga in Baldev

On March 5, Dauji Ka Huranga at Dauji Temple in Baldev concludes the Braj Holi 2026 calendar. This energetic celebration involves playful color throwing and traditional rituals unique to the temple.

FAQs: Braj Holi 2026

Q1. When does Braj Holi 2026 start?

Braj Holi 2026 begins with Laddu Mar Holi in Barsana on February 24, 2026. Major celebrations continue for about ten days until March 5, 2026.

Q2. When is Holika Dahan and Rangwali Holi in 2026?

Holika Dahan will be observed on March 3, 2026 after sunset. Rangwali Holi or Dhulandi will be celebrated on March 4, 2026 across Mathura and Vrindavan.

Q3. What is the most famous event of Braj Holi?

Lathmar Holi in Barsana and Nandgaon is the most famous event. Women playfully strike men with sticks as part of a traditional celebration linked to Lord Krishna.

Q4. When is Lathmar Holi 2026 in Barsana and Nandgaon?

Barsana Lathmar Holi will be celebrated on February 25, 2026. Nandgaon Lathmar Holi will take place on February 26, 2026.

Q5. What is Phoolon Wali Holi and when is it in 2026?

Phoolon Wali Holi is the flower Holi celebrated in Vrindavan temples. In 2026, it will be observed on February 27 during Rangbhari Ekadashi.

Q6. Is there a lunar eclipse on Holi 2026?

Yes, a Total Lunar Eclipse will occur on March 3, 2026. Temple rituals and Holika Dahan timings may be adjusted. Rituals are expected after 6:47 PM IST.

Q7. How many days should I plan for Braj Holi 2026?

To experience key events like Lathmar Holi, Phoolon Wali Holi and Rangwali Holi, plan at least four to five days. For the complete calendar, consider a ten day visit.

Q8. Is Braj Holi safe for tourists?

Yes, Braj Holi attracts visitors from India and abroad. It is advisable to stay in groups, protect belongings and follow local guidance due to large crowds.

Q9. What is the best time to visit Mathura and Vrindavan for Holi 2026?

To witness the early celebrations in Barsana by February 27 to attend Phoolon Wali Holi and continue through the main Holi festival on March 4.

Q10. What makes Braj Holi different from regular Holi celebrations?

Braj Holi is celebrated inside historic temples and village courtyards with devotional songs, traditional rituals and age old customs, making it a deeply spiritual and cultural experience.