10 Must Visit Places for Holi in India: Top Festive Destinations

Holi, known as the festival of colors, is one of India’s most vibrant and widely celebrated festivals, marking the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. Observed on the full moon day of Phalguna (February–March), Holi unites people through color play, music, dance, and festive feasts. The festival’s origins date back thousands of years, with references in ancient Hindu scriptures like the Bhagavata Purana, highlighting the legend of Holika and Prahlad.

Across India, Holi is celebrated in diverse styles, from Lathmar Holi in Barsana to Shigmo in Goa and the royal Holi of Rajasthan. Each region adds its unique traditions, rituals, and flavors, making it an unmissable experience. Whether it’s the spiritual fervor of Vrindavan or the Bollywood-style revelry in Mumbai, every destination offers something special. This guide explores the 10 Must Visit Places for Holi in India, ensuring you experience the festival in its full splendor, safely and memorably.

1. Mathura and Vrindavan – Top in 10 Must Visit Places for Holi in India

Why Visit?

Mathura and Vrindavan, the birthplace and childhood home of Lord Krishna, host some of the most traditional and grand Holi celebrations in India. Holi here is deeply rooted in mythology, inspired by Krishna’s playful interactions with Radha and the Gopis. The festivities begin nearly a week before the main Holi day, attracting thousands of pilgrims and tourists.
Also Read: History of Virandavan Holi

Key Attractions

Phoolon Ki Holi at Banke Bihari Temple

• Celebrated on Ekadashi (a few days before Holi), this event transforms the Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan into a mesmerizing floral spectacle.
• Instead of colors, priests shower devotees with flower petals, filling the air with fragrance and devotion.
• Timings: 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM (only one hour, so arrive early to get a good spot).

Widow’s Holi in Vrindavan – A Festival of Change

• A socially transformative celebration, Widow’s Holi was introduced to break centuries-old traditions that once barred widows from participating in festivals.
• Hundreds of widowed women from Vrindavan’s ashrams gather at Gopinath Temple, draping themselves in bright colors and playing Holi with joy and laughter.
• This event symbolizes hope, equality, and social inclusion, drawing attention from global visitors.
• Timings: Usually takes place a few days before Holi, so checking local schedules is advised.

Things to Do in Mathura and Vrindavan During Holi

• Attend Holika Dahan at Dwarikadhish Temple, where a huge bonfire marks the victory of good over evil.
• Join the color play at Vishram Ghat, Mathura’s riverside, where locals and tourists gather for celebrations.
• Watch the grand Holi procession on the streets of Mathura, featuring dance, music, and Krishna-themed performances.

Safety Tips

• Wear protective glasses to avoid color getting into your eyes.
• Choose organic colors as some synthetic powders can cause skin irritation.
• Keep valuables safe as the streets can get extremely crowded.
• Plan your visit early as hotels in Mathura and Vrindavan fill up weeks in advance due to the festival rush.

For anyone wanting to experience Holi in its purest and most spiritual form, Mathura and Vrindavan stand as top destinations in the 10 Must Visit Places for Holi in India. 

Also Read: Darjeeling Tour Guide: Must-Visit Places & Best Food

2. Barsana – The Most Unique Among 10 Must Visit Places for Holi in India

Why Visit?

Barsana, a small town in Uttar Pradesh, is home to one of the most extraordinary Holi celebrations in India—the Lathmar Holi. Unlike the typical color-throwing revelry, this tradition sees women playfully beating men with sticks, recreating the legendary tale of Radha and Krishna. According to mythology, Lord Krishna would visit Radha’s village, Barsana, to tease her and the other Gopis, and in response, the women would chase him away with sticks. Today, this 400-year-old tradition continues with great enthusiasm.

Key Attractions

Lathmar Holi – A Playful Battle of Love

• Celebrated at the Radha Rani Temple in Barsana, this event attracts thousands of spectators.
• Men from Nandgaon (Krishna’s village) arrive in Barsana, singing and playing Holi, only to be met with women wielding sticks (lathis).
• The men try to protect themselves with shields, but most end up getting ‘playfully beaten’ while laughing and dancing.
• Timings: Usually celebrated 6–7 days before the main Holi festival, so check local event dates.

Colorful Processions and Folk Performances

• The next day, Barsana men visit Nandgaon for another round of Holi celebrations, balancing the playful rivalry.
• The streets come alive with processions featuring Krishna and Radha idols, traditional drummers, and folk dancers.
• Devotional songs called ‘Hori’ fill the air, adding a spiritual depth to the celebrations.
• Timings: The main Lathmar Holi event takes place around noon and continues till evening.

Things to Do in Barsana During Holi

• Visit the Radha Rani Temple, the only temple dedicated to Radha in India, and witness the grand festivities.
• Enjoy local delicacies like ‘Thandai’ and ‘Gujiya’, which are an essential part of the Holi experience.
• Capture vibrant photography as the town gets drenched in colors, music, and traditions.

Safety Tips

• Expect large crowds, so it’s best to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
• Wear full-sleeve clothing to avoid any color-related skin irritation.
• Travel in groups to enjoy a safe and immersive experience.
• Respect local traditions—Lathmar Holi is a cultural event, so ensure participation is playful and consensual.

Barsana’s Lathmar Holi is one of the most unique and culturally rich experiences, making it a must-visit destination in the 10 Must Visit Places for Holi in India. If you’re looking for an authentic and historic Holi celebration, Barsana should be at the top of your list!

3. Shantiniketan – Cultural Charm in 10 Must Visit Places for Holi in India

Why Visit?

If you want to experience Holi beyond the usual color-splashing revelry, Shantiniketan in West Bengal offers a unique and artistic celebration known as Basant Utsav (Spring Festival). Introduced by Rabindranath Tagore at Visva-Bharati University, this festival blends Bengali culture, music, dance, and poetry into the Holi spirit. Unlike the chaotic Holi of North India, Shantiniketan’s celebration is serene, graceful, and deeply connected to literature and arts.

Key Attractions

Basant Utsav – A Celebration of Art and Culture

• Students of Visva-Bharati University dress in yellow attire, symbolizing spring and renewal.
• The event starts with Tagore’s songs (Rabindra Sangeet), poetry recitals, and classical dance performances.
• Instead of synthetic powders, Holi here is played with natural ‘abir’ (dry colors) in a peaceful, artistic atmosphere.
• Timings: Celebrated on the day before the traditional Holi festival, usually starting in the morning and continuing till noon.

Traditional Bengali Music, Dance, and Poetry

• Performers recreate the essence of Tagore’s literature, portraying themes of love, nature, and unity through dance dramas.
• The celebration is open to visitors, offering a glimpse into Bengal’s rich cultural heritage.
• Locals and students apply colors to one another gently and respectfully, making it a family-friendly event.

Things to Do in Shantiniketan During Holi

• Explore Visva-Bharati University, founded by Rabindranath Tagore, and witness its historical significance.
• Attend the cultural performances—a must-watch for lovers of art, literature, and dance.
• Shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs at the local fairs held during Basant Utsav.
• Try authentic Bengali sweets like Sandesh and Pithe, traditionally prepared for Holi.

Safety Tips

• Respect the local traditions—Basant Utsav is more about culture than a color war.
• Use natural, organic colors to maintain the festival’s eco-friendly essence.
• Arrive early to get a good view of the performances, as the campus gets crowded.
• Book accommodations in advance—Shantiniketan attracts thousands of tourists during this time.

Shantiniketan’s Basant Utsav offers a refined and artistic alternative to conventional Holi celebrations, making it an essential stop in the 10 Must Visit Places for Holi in India. If you seek a cultural and soulful Holi experience, Shantiniketan is the perfect destination! 

Also Read: Top 10 Must-Visit Places in Manali

4. Udaipur – Royal Grandeur in 10 Must Visit Places for Holi in India

Why Visit?

If you want to celebrate Holi like royalty, Udaipur in Rajasthan offers a majestic experience. The festival is celebrated with traditional Mewar grandeur, led by the Mewar royal family at the City Palace. The celebrations include a royal procession, cultural performances, and a grand Holika Dahan, making it one of the most unique and luxurious Holi celebrations in India.

Key Attractions

Holika Dahan at the City Palace – A Regal Tradition

• The Mewar royal family hosts the grand Holika Dahan at the Manek Chowk of City Palace.
• A magnificent bonfire is lit, symbolizing the victory of good over evil, followed by ritual prayers.
• The royal family leads a procession on elephants, horses, and camels, wearing traditional Rajasthani attire.
• Timings: The event starts in the evening (around 7 PM), the night before Holi.

Cultural Performances, Folk Dances, and Fireworks

• Spectacular Rajasthani folk performances, including Ghoomar and Kalbelia dances.
• The celebration concludes with a stunning fireworks display, illuminating the City Palace.
• Guests, including tourists, celebrities, and dignitaries, are often invited to witness the royal celebrations.

Things to Do in Udaipur During Holi

• Join the color play at Jagdish Chowk and other public spaces the next morning.
• Enjoy Rajasthani cuisine like Dal Baati Churma and festive sweets like Ghewar and Malpua.
• Take a boat ride on Lake Pichola to enjoy the serene beauty of Udaipur post-Holi.
• Explore historic sites like Fateh Sagar Lake, Saheliyon Ki Bari, and Sajjangarh Fort while in the city.

Safety Tips

• Follow local guidelines—royal Holi events may require prior registration or entry passes.
• Wear traditional attire if attending the City Palace celebration for a more immersive experience.
• Book hotels in advance, as Udaipur sees a huge tourist influx during Holi.
• Be mindful of crowded areas and opt for safe, tourist-friendly locations for Holi celebrations.

Udaipur’s royal Holi celebrations offer a unique blend of culture, tradition, and luxury, making it an unmissable destination in the 10 Must Visit Places for Holi in India. If you dream of experiencing Holi with regal splendor, Udaipur is the place to be!

5. Jaipur – Elephant Festival Highlighting 10 Must Visit Places for Holi in India

Why Visit?

Jaipur, the Pink City of India, offers a Holi experience unlike any other with its grand Elephant Festival, blending royalty, tradition, and cultural extravagance. Organized by the Rajasthan Tourism Department, this festival features elephant processions, polo matches, and folk performances, making it one of the most unique Holi celebrations in India. Jaipur’s community Holi celebrations are also vibrant, with streets filled with music, colors, and festive energy.

Key Attractions

Elephant Festival – A Royal Spectacle

• The highlight of Jaipur’s Holi is the Elephant Festival, held at Jaipur Polo Ground a day before Holi.
• Elephants are beautifully decorated with vibrant colors, jewelry, and traditional Rajasthani embroidery.
• Events include:
  • Elephant polo matches – A rare and exciting sport.
  • Tug-of-war between elephants and humans, adding to the festive spirit.
  • Traditional Rajasthani folk dances like Ghoomar and Kalbelia, performed by local artists.
• Timings: Usually in the afternoon (around 4 PM), one day before Holi.

Community Holi Celebrations with Colors and Music

• On Holi morning, Jaipur’s streets turn into a massive festival ground, with people playing with organic gulal (colored powder), dancing, and enjoying traditional sweets.
• The Govind Dev Ji Temple in the City Palace complex hosts spiritual Holi celebrations with devotional songs dedicated to Lord Krishna.
• Major public Holi parties happen at Narain Singh Circle and other city hotspots, featuring music, DJs, and dance.

Things to Do in Jaipur During Holi

• Witness the Holika Dahan at public squares, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.
• Try traditional Rajasthani sweets like Ghewar, Gujiya, and Thandai.
• Visit Amer Fort, Nahargarh Fort, and Hawa Mahal, as the city’s landmarks look even more beautiful during Holi.
• Shop for handcrafted Holi souvenirs in Jaipur’s bustling markets like Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar.

Safety Tips

• Check for festival schedules in advance, as the Elephant Festival is subject to last-minute changes.
• Wear old, comfortable clothes, as colors may be hard to wash off.
• Use safe, organic colors to protect your skin from harsh chemicals.
• Stay hydrated, as the celebrations can be intense and last for hours.
• Watch out for large crowds in public Holi parties—stick to well-organized events for a safer experience.

With its majestic Elephant Festival and energetic community celebrations, Jaipur stands out as one of the 10 Must Visit Places for Holi in India. If you’re looking for a royal yet vibrant Holi experience, Jaipur is the perfect destination!

6. Hampi – South India’s Entry in 10 Must Visit Places for Holi in India

Why Visit?

While Holi is predominantly celebrated in North India, Hampi in Karnataka is one of the few places in South India where the festival is observed with equal energy and grandeur. The UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its stunning Vijayanagar-era ruins, transforms into a vibrant festival hub, where locals and tourists come together to celebrate Holi with music, dance, and colors.

Key Attractions

Street Drumming, Dancing, and Color Play

• Holi in Hampi is a lively affair, with locals and foreign tourists gathering in the streets for drumming, dancing, and throwing colors.
• The beat of traditional dhols (drums) echoes through the ancient ruins, creating an electrifying atmosphere.
• Unlike the royal or temple Holi celebrations elsewhere, Hampi’s Holi is more rustic, spontaneous, and community-driven.
• Timings: The celebrations start early in the morning and continue till late afternoon.

Holi Celebrations Set Against the Stunning Ruins of Hampi

• Playing Holi amidst the ancient stone temples, pillared halls, and riverbanks of Hampi offers a breathtaking backdrop.
• The Virupaksha Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, serves as the focal point for Holi prayers and festivities.
• After the color celebrations, people head towards the Tungabhadra River for a refreshing dip and cleanup.

Things to Do in Hampi During Holi

• Explore the ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire, including the Vittala Temple, Lotus Mahal, and Elephant Stables.
• Enjoy coracle boat rides on the Tungabhadra River after Holi celebrations.
• Try delicious local South Indian cuisine, including dosas, idlis, and Hampi’s special coconut-based sweets.
• Hike up Matanga Hill for a panoramic sunrise view over Hampi’s historic landscape.

Safety Tips

• Stick to designated Holi-friendly areas, as some temples and heritage sites may restrict color use.
• Use natural, skin-friendly colors to prevent any allergic reactions.
• Keep electronic gadgets safe—Holi celebrations can get wild, and colors mixed with water can damage devices.
• Stay hydrated and carry sunscreen, as the weather in Hampi can be hot during Holi.

Hampi’s blend of heritage and Holi revelry makes it a must-visit destination in South India, earning it a well-deserved spot in the 10 Must Visit Places for Holi in India. If you’re looking for a historic yet colorful Holi celebration, Hampi is an unforgettable destination! 

7. Delhi – Vibrant Urban Festivities in 10 Must Visit Places for Holi in India

Why Visit?

Delhi, the capital of India, offers a diverse Holi experience, blending modern Holi parties with traditional temple celebrations. From high-energy music festivals featuring DJs and organic colors to spiritual Holi events at temples, Delhi has something for every kind of traveler. Whether you prefer a wild Holi bash or a more cultural and community-based celebration, Delhi makes sure Holi is unforgettable.

Key Attractions

‘Holi Moo Festival’ – A Modern Celebration with DJs and Organic Colors

• One of India’s biggest Holi festivals, the Holi Moo Festival (formerly Holi Cow Festival) attracts both locals and international tourists.
• Features multiple stages with live performances, including Indian and international DJs, fusion bands, and Bollywood music.
• Organic colors, food stalls, rain dances, and a safe, well-organized environment make it a must-visit for those looking for a modern, energetic Holi.
• Venue: Usually held in South Delhi, with tickets available in advance.
• Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM on Holi day.

Traditional Holi Celebrations in Temples and Residential Areas

• ISKCON Temple and Banke Bihari Temple (Delhi’s Vrindavan) offer spiritual Holi celebrations with devotional songs, bhajans, and flower Holi.
• Chhatarpur Temple and Lakshmi Narayan Temple host Holi celebrations with rituals, prayers, and cultural performances.
• Delhi’s residential societies also organize safe, family-friendly Holi celebrations with neighbors coming together for music, sweets, and color play.

Things to Do in Delhi During Holi

• Try Delhi’s special Holi treats, including Gujiya, Thandai, and Bhang-infused delicacies.
• Shop for Holi essentials at Chandni Chowk and Connaught Place, where streets come alive with festive markets.
• Visit historic sites like India Gate, Qutub Minar, and Humayun’s Tomb, beautifully lit up for the festival.
• Explore Delhi’s street food, from spicy chaat to crispy jalebis, for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Safety Tips

• Choose organized Holi events like Holi Moo Festival for a controlled, safe experience.
• Use organic colors to avoid harmful chemicals affecting your skin and eyes.
• Keep valuables safe—Delhi’s Holi celebrations can be crowded, so avoid carrying expensive gadgets.
• Stay hydrated and avoid overconsumption of Bhang, as it can be stronger than expected.

With its mix of high-energy Holi parties and traditional celebrations, Delhi is a must-visit city in the 10 Must Visit Places for Holi in India. Whether you’re a partygoer or a cultural explorer, Delhi’s Holi celebrations promise an experience like no other!

8. Mumbai – Bollywood-Style Fun in 10 Must Visit Places for Holi in India

Why Visit?

Mumbai, the heart of Bollywood, offers a glamorous and high-energy Holi experience, where you can celebrate the festival just like in the movies. From celebrity-studded parties to beachside Holi celebrations, Mumbai’s Holi is packed with music, dance, and color. The city’s unique blend of modern Holi parties and cultural traditions makes it one of the top destinations to experience Holi in India.

Key Attractions

‘Rang Barse’ Events – Bollywood-Style Holi with Live DJs and Dance

• Mumbai is home to some of the biggest Holi parties, including ‘Rang Barse,’ ‘Holi Reloaded,’ and ‘Color by the Bay’, which feature Bollywood music, EDM, and live performances by top DJs.
• These events often see celebrity appearances, making you feel like you’re in a classic Bollywood Holi scene.
• Venues: Various locations across Mumbai, including Borivali, Juhu, and Thane.
• Timings: Typically 10 AM – 5 PM on Holi day.

Beachside Holi Parties with Safe Organic Colors

• Mumbai’s Juhu and Versova beaches host vibrant Holi celebrations with organic colors, water splashes, and lively crowds.
• Unlike the chaotic Holi celebrations in smaller cities, Mumbai’s events are well-organized and safer for families and tourists.
• Many clubs and hotels host exclusive Holi pool parties, combining water, music, and colors.

Things to Do in Mumbai During Holi

• Experience celebrity Holi parties, as many Bollywood stars host private celebrations in their homes and farmhouses.
• Enjoy Mumbai’s special Holi delicacies, like Puran Poli, Thandai, and Misal Pav.
• Visit iconic locations such as Marine Drive, Gateway of India, and Bandra-Worli Sea Link, beautifully lit up for the festival.
• Take a Bollywood tour to see how Holi is celebrated in the Indian film industry.

Safety Tips

• Opt for well-organized Holi parties to avoid unruly crowds.
• Wear sunglasses and apply coconut oil to protect your skin and hair from colors.
• Use safe, non-toxic colors to prevent skin irritation.
• Book tickets in advance, as major Holi events in Mumbai sell out quickly.

With its star-studded Holi parties, Bollywood glamour, and beachside fun, Mumbai is an unmissable destination in the 10 Must Visit Places for Holi in India. If you want a film-style Holi with music, dance, and a touch of celebrity charm, Mumbai is the place to be!

9. Manipur – Yaoshang Festival’s Place in 10 Must Visit Places for Holi in India

Why Visit?

Manipur offers a unique Holi experience with its six-day-long Yaoshang Festival, blending Hindu and indigenous traditions. Unlike the typical color-throwing celebrations, Holi in Manipur is a mix of dance, music, sports, and spirituality. The entire state comes alive with cultural performances and night-time festivities, making it one of the most distinct destinations for Holi in India.

Key Attractions

‘Thabal Chongba’ – A Traditional Moonlit Folk Dance

• Thabal Chongba (meaning “Moonlight Dance”) is a traditional Manipuri folk dance, performed in the evenings during Yaoshang.
• Young men and women form circles, hold hands, and dance to traditional drum beats, creating an enchanting experience.
• The dance symbolizes community bonding and is an integral part of the Yaoshang-Holi festivities.
• Best Locations: Imphal, Thoubal, and Bishnupur districts.
• Timings: The dance starts after sunset and continues late into the night.

Holi-Themed Sports Events and Cultural Programs

• Unlike other parts of India, sports take center stage during Holi in Manipur.
• Locals organize marathons, traditional wrestling matches, and indigenous games, bringing communities together.
• The Govindajee Temple in Imphal, dedicated to Lord Krishna, hosts Holi prayers, devotional music, and color play.
• Young children go door-to-door seeking donations, a tradition known as ‘Nakatheng’, to fund festival activities.

Things to Do in Manipur During Holi

• Participate in Thabal Chongba and experience the unique moonlight folk dance.
• Visit the iconic Loktak Lake, Asia’s largest floating lake, for a peaceful escape post-celebration.
• Explore Kangla Fort and Ima Keithel (Women’s Market) to witness Manipur’s rich heritage.
• Try Manipuri Holi treats, including Chak-Hao Kheer (black rice pudding) and Eromba (spicy mashed vegetables).

Safety Tips

• Respect local traditions, as Holi in Manipur is more about culture and community bonding rather than just throwing colors.
• Plan for an extended stay, as Yaoshang lasts six days, and different events take place across the state.
• Carry warm clothing, as nights in Manipur can be chilly during March.
• Be mindful of restricted areas, as Manipur shares an international border and has certain security-sensitive zones.

With its blend of Holi colors, folk traditions, and sporting events, Manipur’s Yaoshang Festival is a unique twist on India’s Holi celebrations. It deserves a top spot in the 10 Must Visit Places for Holi in India, offering a cultural experience unlike any other in the country!

10. Goa – Shigmo Festival’s Vibrancy in 10 Must Visit Places for Holi in India

Why Visit?

Goa’s Holi celebrations come alive through Shigmo, a spring festival that blends mythology, folk traditions, and carnival-like parades. Unlike the wild beach parties Goa is known for, Shigmo is a more traditional and cultural affair, featuring grand processions, folk dances, and artistic floats. This festival is a must-visit for those who want to experience Holi with a Goan twist!

Key Attractions

Processions Featuring Traditional Goan Dances

• Shigmo is marked by massive street parades, where vibrantly dressed performers showcase traditional Goan folk dances like Fugdi and Ghode Modni.
• The parades are held across different cities in Goa, with beautifully decorated floats depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.
• Best Locations: Panaji, Margao, Vasco, and Mapusa.
• Timings: Celebrations last for five days, usually around mid-March. Parades typically start in the evening.

Community Feasts and Street Celebrations

• Unlike the nightclubs and rave parties Goa is famous for, Shigmo brings locals together for feasting and cultural events.
• Temple towns like Ponda and Madgaon host devotional rituals, traditional plays, and Holi-themed performances.
• The festival features dhol-tasha (drum) performances, with locals engaging in color play in a more traditional and family-friendly way.

Things to Do in Goa During Holi

• Experience Shigmo parades in the old quarters of Goa, where streets are lit up with colorful lights.
• Enjoy Goan Holi delicacies, including Puran Poli, Nevri (Goan Gujiya), and Feni-based festive drinks.
• Visit Goa’s scenic beaches, like Baga, Palolem, and Anjuna, where some private beach resorts host Holi parties.
• Explore Goa’s historic churches and temples, such as Basilica of Bom Jesus and Shri Mangeshi Temple, to see how Holi blends with Goan traditions.

Safety Tips

• Stick to organized celebrations, as street parties can sometimes get crowded.
• Use eco-friendly colors, as Goa’s celebrations focus on preserving nature.
• Respect local customs, since Shigmo is deeply rooted in Goan heritage and different from the typical Holi parties.
• Book accommodations in advance, as Goa attracts both domestic and international tourists during this season.

With its unique mix of mythological themes, traditional folk performances, and colorful parades, Goa’s Shigmo Festival is a must-experience version of Holi. Its cultural depth and festive vibrancy make it one of the top destinations in the 10 Must Visit Places for Holi in India. If you’re looking for a coastal Holi with a blend of tradition and celebration, Goa is the perfect choice!

Final Thought

Holi is more than just a festival of colors—it is a cultural phenomenon that varies beautifully across India. From the mythological roots in Mathura and Vrindavan to the royal grandeur of Udaipur, the folk traditions of Manipur, and the Bollywood-style revelry in Mumbai, each region brings its own flavor, rituals, and festive spirit. Experiencing Holi in different parts of the country is a journey through India’s rich heritage, where tradition meets celebration in vibrant and unforgettable ways.