From Mathura to Hampi: 10 Best Places to Enjoy Holi in India

By Priyanka Roshan | Feb 24, 2025

From Mathura to Hampi: 10 Best Places to Enjoy Holi in India

Holi, the festival of colours, is one of India’s most vibrant celebrations, blending music, dance, and joy. From ancient temples to grand city-wide festivals, these ten destinations offer the most unique Holi experiences.

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As the birthplace of Lord Krishna, Mathura and Vrindavan host some of the most spectacular Holi celebrations. Banke Bihari Temple bursts with colours, while Phoolon ki Holi and Widows’ Holi add cultural depth to the festivities.

1. Mathura & Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh

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Barsana’s famous Lathmar Holi is a playful tradition where women chase men with sticks, reenacting Krishna’s teasing of Radha. The festival continues in Nandgaon with a riot of colours and lively folk songs.

2. Barsana & Nandgaon, Uttar Pradesh

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Rabindranath Tagore introduced Basanta Utsav in Shantiniketan, merging Holi with poetry, dance, and music. Dressed in yellow, students welcome spring with gulal and traditional Bengali songs, creating a mesmerizing celebration.

3. Shantiniketan, West Bengal

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Purulia’s Dol Jatra offers a rustic Holi experience infused with tribal traditions. Chau dance, Baul music, and folk performances create an electrifying atmosphere, making this celebration truly unique.

4. Purulia, West Bengal

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Hola Mohalla in Anandpur Sahib blends Holi with Sikh warrior traditions. Martial arts displays, horse riding, and mock battles are followed by music, colour play, and communal feasts, creating a grand spectacle.

5. Punjab

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Holi in Udaipur begins with a royal procession led by the Maharaja at City Palace. The celebrations include Holika Dahan, traditional dance performances, and lakeside festivities, reflecting the city’s regal charm.

6. Udaipur, Rajasthan

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Pushkar’s Holi is a magnet for travelers, turning the town into a giant dance floor. With DJs, colours, and a carnival-like energy, it’s one of India’s most vibrant Holi celebrations.

7. Pushkar, Rajasthan

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Delhi offers a mix of traditional and modern Holi festivities, from temple rituals to high-energy parties. The Holi Moo Festival features live music, rain dances, and organic colours, drawing locals and tourists alike.

8. New Delhi

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Jaipur’s Holi kicks off with the famous Elephant Festival, featuring decorated elephants, polo matches, and tug-of-war competitions. The city then erupts in colour at iconic spots like Amer Fort and City Palace.

9. Jaipur, Rajasthan

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Hampi is one of the few places in South India that celebrates Holi with full enthusiasm. Amidst the UNESCO-listed ruins, drum beats, dance, and colour play create a historic and unforgettable celebration.

10. Hampi, Karnataka

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