Holi, the Festival of Colors, is one of the most vibrant and widely celebrated festivals in India. It marks the arrival of spring and symbolizes the victory of good over evil. If you are looking for the best Holi destinations in India, here are the 10 places to celebrate Holi in India in 2025 that promise an unforgettable experience.
Mathura and Vrindavan – The Birthplace of Holi
Mathura and Vrindavan are synonymous with the Holi festival, offering an authentic experience. Celebrations here begin weeks before the festival, with the renowned Lathmar Holi in Barsana. Devotees and travelers gather at Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan, where the festival is celebrated with colors, flowers, and bhajans.
Best Time to Visit: A week before Holi
Must-Experience: Phoolon Ki Holi (Flower Holi) in Vrindavan
Barsana – Lathmar Holi Extravaganza
Barsana, near Mathura, hosts the iconic Lathmar Holi, where women playfully hit men with sticks. The festival is celebrated with immense joy, and visitors can witness the traditional rituals that date back centuries.
Best Time to Visit: 3-5 days before Holi
Must-Experience: The reenactment of Radha and Krishna’s playful love story
Delhi – Holi Parties and Cultural Events
The capital city hosts some of the grandest Holi festival celebrations. From traditional temple rituals to modern music festivals like Holi Moo Festival, Delhi offers diverse ways to enjoy the Festival of Colors.
Best Time to Visit: Holi Eve and Holi Day
Must-Experience: Colorful Holi parties with music, dance, and traditional sweets
Jaipur – Royal Holi Celebrations
Jaipur, the Pink City, hosts regal Holi destinations in India celebrations, where locals and tourists gather at palaces and heritage sites. The city’s streets light up with colors, folk performances, and traditional Rajasthani festivities.
Best Time to Visit: Holi Day
Must-Experience: Holi celebrations at City Palace, organized by the royal family
Udaipur – The Royal Holika Dahan
Udaipur, with its palatial grandeur, offers a royal Holi festival experience. The Mewar royal family hosts grand celebrations, including a spectacular Holika Dahan bonfire followed by traditional Gair dance performances.
Best Time to Visit: Holika Dahan Eve
Must-Experience: Traditional bonfire ceremony at City Palace
Varanasi – Devotional Holi on the Ghats
For those seeking a spiritual Festival of Colors, Varanasi offers a serene yet colorful Holi experience. Pilgrims and tourists gather at the ghats, smearing colors while chanting devotional hymns.
Best Time to Visit: Holi Day
Must-Experience: Playing Holi on the banks of the Ganges
Hampi – Traditional Holi in South India
While North India dominates the Holi festival scene, Hampi in Karnataka offers a unique experience. The UNESCO World Heritage site turns vibrant with colors, music, and dance.
Best Time to Visit: Holi Day
Must-Experience: Holi at the Virupaksha Temple
Shantiniketan – Cultural Holi in Bengal
Rabindranath Tagore introduced Basanta Utsav (Spring Festival) in Shantiniketan, which is celebrated with cultural performances, music, and dance, making it a unique Holi destination in India.
Best Time to Visit: A day before Holi
Must-Experience: Traditional songs and dance performances
Pushkar – A Hippie’s Holi Paradise
Pushkar, famous for its lake and temples, attracts a global crowd for Holi festival celebrations. The town hosts one of the most lively Holi parties, with colors, DJs, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit: Holi Day
Must-Experience: Holi at Pushkar Lake and nearby cafes
Anandpur Sahib – The Warrior’s Holi
Anandpur Sahib in Punjab celebrates Hola Mohalla, a unique form of Festival of Colors. Instead of colors, it features martial arts, horse riding, and mock battles, making it an extraordinary Holi destination in India.
Best Time to Visit: A day after Holi
Must-Experience: Sikh martial arts and cultural performances
Conclusion
Whether you want to experience a traditional Holi festival or a modern celebration, these 10 places to celebrate Holi in India in 2025 offer something for everyone. Plan your trip in advance to witness the best of the Festival of Colors at these iconic Holi destinations in India.
