The Most Popular Places for a Thrilling Holi Celebration in India

Holi, the festival of colors, is one of the most vibrant and joyous celebrations in India. This festival symbolizes the victory of good over evil and the arrival of spring. Holi is celebrated with great fervor across India and it’s an opportunity to come together with friends, family, and loved ones to dance, sing and spread happiness. If you’re looking to experience the true essence of Holi, consider visiting one of these 19 must-visit destinations for a thrilling and extraordinary Holi celebration in India.

The 19 Most Popular Places where celebrate Holi in India in unique Ways

• Mathura and Vrindavan
• Barsana and Nandgaon
• Jaipur
• Udaipur
• Anandpur Sahib
• Dhulendi
• Pushkar
• Shimla
• Kasol
• Manali
• Purulia, West Bengal
• Goa
• Mumbai
• Delhi
• Hampi
• Haridwar
• Nainital
• Andhra Pradesh
• Jaisalmer

1. Holi in Mathura and Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh:
These two towns are believed to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna and are famous for their extravagant Holi celebrations. The most important destinations for Holi celebrations in India. Devotees from all over the country flock to these towns to participate in the festival and offer prayers to Lord Krishna. The streets come alive with a riot of colors, and you can participate in traditional Holi activities like singing bhajans and playing with colored powders.

Mathura is also known as the birthplace of Lord Krishna. 

2. Holi in Barsana and Nandgaon, Uttar Pradesh:
These two villages in Uttar Pradesh are famous for their unique Holi celebrations, where women chase men with sticks to symbolize the victory of good over evil. The Lathmar Holi celebrations in Barsana are particularly famous and attract tourists from all over the world.

The festival here is celebrated with the famous “Lathmar Holi”, where women use sticks to beat men who come to play Holi with them.

3. Holi in Jaipur, Rajasthan:
The Pink City of Jaipur is famous for its stunning palaces and forts, but during Holi, it transforms into a lively hub of festivities. You can participate in traditional Holi activities like playing with colored powders and dancing to the beat of dhols. The celebration here is a mix of traditional and modern activities, with locals and tourists coming together to dance, sing, and play with colors.

Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan. Holi in Jaipur and across India is a two-day celebration that signifies the arrival of spring. Known as the Dhulandi festival.

4. Holi in Udaipur, Rajasthan:
Udaipur, also known as the City of Lakes, is a picturesque destination that transforms into a lively hub of Holi festivities. The Holi celebration here is a colorful affair, with locals and tourists alike taking to the streets to dance, sing and play with colors. The celebration here is a mix of traditional and modern activities, making it a unique and thrilling experience. People dance and perform the “Gair” folk dance around the bonfire. The celebration continues with a royal procession from the Shambhu Niwas Palace to Manek Chowk, with the royals riding on adorned elephants, horses, and camels and accompanied by a royal music band. The palace offers cocktails and dinner to its guests, and the celebration ends with stunning fireworks

Holi celebrations in Jaipur start with Holika Dahan, where a ceremonial bonfire is lit in the royal palace’s courtyard, known as Mewar Holika Dahan.

5. Holi in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Jaisalmer, the golden city in the desert state of Rajasthan, is a popular destination for Holi celebrations. The city is renowned for its majestic forts, grand palaces, and stunning havelis, and during Holi, these magnificent structures come to life with a vibrant display of color and festivity.

The celebrations in Jaisalmer begin with Holika Dahan, where a bonfire is lit in the city’s main square. This is followed by a lively procession of people playing music and dancing through the streets, spreading joy and cheer. The highlight of Holi in Jaisalmer is the traditional “Holi Milan” gathering, where people come together to sing, dance, and share sweets.

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In addition to the traditional celebrations, Jaisalmer is also famous for its unique form of Holi, known as the “Dhulandi Holi.” During this celebration, people smear each other with colored powder, creating a joyful atmosphere filled with laughter and fun.

Visitors to Jaisalmer during Holi will not only get to experience the festival’s vibrant atmosphere but also immerse themselves in the city’s rich culture and history. From taking a camel safari in the desert to exploring the stunning forts and palaces, Holi in Jaisalmer is an unforgettable experience for anyone looking to celebrate this vibrant festival in India.

6. Holi in Anandpur Sahib, Punjab:
Anandpur Sahib is known for its spectacular Holi celebrations, with thousands of devotees gathering to participate in the festival. The highlight of the celebration here is the Hola Mohalla, a martial arts display by Sikh warriors, which is held a day after Holi. The Sikh festival involves military-style displays, horse riding, and mock battles. This thrilling and energetic celebration is a must-visit for those looking for a unique Holi experience.

Anandpur Sahib, a small town in Punjab, is known for its unique style of Holi celebration. The festival here is celebrated with the “Hola Mohalla”.

7. Holi in Dhulendi, West Bengal:
Dhulendi is a popular Holi celebration in West Bengal that involves the lighting of bonfires, singing and dancing to the beat of dhols, and playing with colored powders. The festival is an opportunity to come together with friends and family and spread happiness and joy.

Holi, also known as Dhuli in Sanskrit, or Dhulheti, Dhulandi, or Dhulendi.

8. Holi in Pushkar, Rajasthan:
Pushkar is a famous pilgrimage destination in Rajasthan and is also known for its elaborate Holi celebrations. During the festival, the town comes alive with a riot of colors, and you can participate in traditional Holi activities like playing with colored powders and dancing to the beat of dhols.

People are gathered in one place to celebrate Holi

9. Holi in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh:
Shimla is a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh that transforms into a hub of Holi festivities during the festival. The celebration here is a mix of traditional and modern activities, with locals and tourists coming together to spread happiness and joy.

10. Holi in Kasol, Himachal Pradesh: Kasol, a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh, is known for its scenic beauty and laid-back vibe. During Holi, the town transforms into a hub of festivities, with locals and tourists coming together to dance, sing, and play with colors. The celebration here is a mix of traditional and modern activities, making it a unique and thrilling experience.

11. Holi in Manali, Himachal Pradesh: Manali, a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh, is known for its scenic beauty and adventure activities. During Holi, the town transforms into a hub of festivities, with locals and tourists coming together to dance, sing, and play with colors. The celebration here is a mix of traditional and modern activities, making it a unique and thrilling experience.

Manali, a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh, is known for its scenic beauty and stunning views.

12. Holi in Purulia, West Bengal:
Purulia is a small town in West Bengal that is famous for its unique Holi celebration, known as the Dhulendi Festival. The festival involves the lighting of bonfires, singing and dancing, and playing with colored powders.

Dhulendi Festival in West Bengal.

Holi in Vasant Panchami, West Bengal:

West Bengal celebrates the festival of Holi as ‘Dol Jatra,’ adding a unique touch to the celebration. This variation of Holi is marked by processions, singing, and dancing, making it a vibrant and lively celebration that you won’t want to miss. During Dol Jatra, people carry idols of Radha and Krishna, and move through the streets, singing and dancing to the beat of traditional drumming. The festival provides a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of West Bengal and a chance to experience the celebration in a unique and exciting way. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Dol Jatra is a must-visit destination for a thrilling Holi celebration.

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Vasant Panchami is a popular Holi celebration in West Bengal that marks the arrival of spring and is celebrated with great fervor across the state. During the festival, people dress up in yellow clothes and offer prayers to the goddess of learning, Saraswati. The celebration also involves playing with colored powders and dancing to the beat of dhols.

Holi is known as ‘Dol Jatra,’ in West Bengal.

13. Holi in Andhra Pradesh

Holi in Andhra Pradesh is a vibrant celebration marked by music, dance, and the exchange of colors. The festival is celebrated in many different ways across the state, with the most popular being the “Dol Purnima” or “Dol Jatra.”

During the Dol Purnima, devotees carry elaborately decorated wooden swings called “dols” through the streets while singing devotional songs and dancing. This tradition symbolizes the victory of good over evil and is an integral part of Holi celebrations in Andhra Pradesh.

In addition to the Dol Purnima, Holi in Andhra Pradesh is also marked by the singing of traditional folk songs and the playing of musical instruments like the dhol, tabla, and harmonium. People also indulge in sweets and savory delicacies, adding to the festive spirit of the occasion.

14. Holi in Goa:
Goa is famous for its vibrant nightlife, and during Holi, the state transforms into a hub of festivities. The Holi celebration here is a mix of traditional and modern activities, with locals and tourists coming together to dance, sing, and play with colors.

Holi is known as Shigmo in Goa.

15. Holi in Mumbai, Maharashtra:
Mumbai is known for its fast-paced lifestyle, but during Holi, the city transforms into a hub of festivities. The Holi celebration here is a mix of traditional and modern activities, with locals and tourists coming together to dance, sing, and play with colors.

Holi is known as Rang Panchami or Shigma – Maharashtra

16. Holi in Delhi, National Capital Territory of Delhi:
Delhi, the capital of India, is famous for its rich cultural heritage and is a hub of Holi festivities during the festival. The celebration here is a mix of traditional and modern activities, with locals and tourists coming together to dance, sing, and play with colors.

Delhi is known as the city of monuments.

17. Holi in Hampi, Karnataka:

Holi celebration in Hampi, Karnataka is a unique and thrilling experience that combines traditional and cultural elements. The festival is celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm, with locals and tourists coming together to sing, dance, and immerse themselves in the vibrant colors of Holi. Hampi is famous for its stunning historical and cultural significance, with its ancient temples and monuments serving as the perfect backdrop for the celebrations. Visitors can expect to participate in traditional Holi activities, such as playing with colors, singing, dancing, and enjoying delicious local food. The festival provides a true cultural experience and a chance to immerse oneself in the rich traditions of Karnataka. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Holi in Hampi is a must-visit destination for an unforgettable celebration.

Hampi is known for its ancient ruined temples. It is locally known as Hampi Utsav or Vijay Utsav.

18. Holi in Haridwar, Uttarakhand:
Haridwar is a holy city in Uttarakhand and is one of the seven holiest places in Hinduism. The Holi celebration here is a mix of traditional and modern activities, and you can participate in traditional Holi activities like playing with colored powders and singing bhajans.

Some of the major festivals celebrated in Haridwar include Holi, Kumbh Mela, and Ardh Kumbh Mela.

19. Holi in Nainital, Uttarakhand

In Uttarakhand, Holi is a musical extravaganza with a strong focus on traditional ragas. The festival is celebrated with great fervor and devotion, and the locals take pride in their musical heritage. After dawn, Bhimpalasi, Peelu, and Sarang ragas are played, and in the evening, Shyam Kalyan, Yaman, and Kalyan ragas are enjoyed. Holi in Uttarakhand is also marked by different forms of the celebration, including Mahila Holi, Baithaki Holi, and Khadi Holi, each adding its own unique flavor to the festival. Whether you’re a music lover or just looking to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Uttarakhand, Holi in this region is a must-visit destination for an unforgettable celebration.

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Here Holi is also celebrated as Mahila Holi, Baithaki Holi, and Khadi Holi.

In conclusion, These 19 destinations are must-visit places for a thrilling Holi celebration and offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of India.  Each destination offers a unique and thrilling experience, making it a must-visit for those looking to celebrate the festival in a truly special way. Whether you’re looking for a religious or cultural experience, or just a fun-filled day with friends and family, these destinations have something for everyone. So, plan your next Holi trip and get ready to immerse yourself in the colors and joy of this vibrant festival.