Holi, the festival of colors, is one of the most vibrant and exciting celebrations in India. It marks the victory of good over evil and is a time for family, friends, and communities to come together and spread joy and happiness.
If you’re looking for the best places to celebrate Holi in India, then you’re in for a treat. From ancient cities steeped in tradition to modern metropolises with a contemporary twist, there are plenty of amazing destinations to choose from.
Mathura and Vrindavan
Celebrate Holi in Mathura and Vrindavan, the birthplace of Lord Krishna and the epicenter of Holi celebrations in India. Immerse yourself in the colorful traditions, lively music, and delicious food of the festival, as you play Holi with locals and visitors from around the world. Discover the vibrant atmosphere of these two holy cities, as you witness the unique and traditional rituals of Holi, such as the Lathmar Holi and the Phoolon Wali Holi. Come and experience the magic of Holi in Mathura and Vrindavan, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Here are some of the popular places to celebrate Holi in Mathura and Vrindavan:
- Dwarkadheesh Temple
- Banke Bihari Temple
- Shri Radha Raman Temple
- Holi Gate
- Vishram Ghat
- Barsana and Nandgaon
Know more about Mathura and Vrindavan
Jaipur
Experience the vibrant and colorful festival of Holi in Jaipur, the Pink City of India. Celebrate the festival of colors in a grand way, as you witness the stunning processions, lively music, and delicious food of the festival. Explore the streets of Jaipur, as you play Holi with locals and visitors from around the world. From the traditional rituals of Holika Dahan to the vibrant and playful celebrations of the next day, Jaipur offers a unique and unforgettable experience of Holi. Come and celebrate Holi in Jaipur, and immerse yourself in the joy and magic of this ancient festival.
Here are some of the popular places to celebrate Holi in Jaipur:
- City Palace
- Khasa Kothi
- Sisodia Rani Garden
- Chokhi Dhani
- Albert Hall Museum
Know more about Jaipur
Barsana and Nandgaon
Experience the unique and traditional celebrations of Holi in Barsana and Nandgaon, two small towns near Mathura in Uttar Pradesh, India. Witness the age-old rituals and customs of the Lathmar Holi and the Phoolon Wali Holi, where women beat men with sticks and shower them with flowers respectively. These two towns offer a unique and authentic experience of Holi, as locals and visitors from around the world come together to celebrate the festival of colors. Come and celebrate Holi in Barsana and Nandgaon, and immerse yourself in the magic and traditions of this ancient festival.
Here are some of the popular places to celebrate Holi in Barsana and Nandgaon:
Barsana:
- Shri Radha Rani Temple
- Rangeeli Mahal
- Shriji Temple
Nandgaon:
- Shri Nand Bhavan Temple
- Nandotsav Ground
- Radha Rani Temple
Know more about Barsana and Nandgaon
Goa
Experience the vibrant and exotic celebrations of Holi in Goa, the beach paradise of India. From the lively beach parties to the colorful and playful celebrations in the streets, Goa offers a unique and unforgettable experience of Holi. Enjoy the music, dance, and delicious food of the festival, as you play with colors and soak in the sun. Whether you choose to celebrate on the beaches or in one of the many clubs and bars, Goa has something for everyone. Come and celebrate Holi in Goa, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Here are some of the popular places to celebrate Holi in Goa:
- Anjuna Beach
- Arambol Beach
- Palolem Beach
- Hill Top Goa
- Shantadurga Temple
Delhi
Experience the joy and excitement of Holi in Delhi, the capital city of India. From the traditional Holika Dahan to the colorful and lively celebrations of the next day, Delhi offers a unique and unforgettable experience of Holi. Join the locals and visitors from around the world, as you play with colors, dance to the music, and savor the delicious food of the festival. Whether you choose to celebrate in the heart of the city or in one of the many parks and gardens, Delhi has something for everyone. Come and celebrate Holi in Delhi, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Here are some of the popular places to celebrate Holi in Delhi:
- Connaught Place
- India Gate
- Hauz Khas Village
- Purana Qila
- Lodi Gardens
Know more about Delhi
These are just a few of the best places to celebrate Holi in India. Whether you’re looking for ancient traditions or modern festivities, there is something for everyone. So, come join in the fun and experience the joy and vibrancy of Holi in India. Happy Holi!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Holi celebrated?
Holi is a popular Hindu festival celebrated in India and other parts of the world. It is also known as the “Festival of Colors” or the “Festival of Love.”
The festival of Holi is celebrated to welcome the arrival of spring and to celebrate the victory of good over evil. According to Hindu mythology, the festival commemorates the burning of the demoness Holika, who tried to kill Prahlada, a devotee of Lord Vishnu. Prahlada was saved by Lord Vishnu, and Holika was burnt to ashes.
The festival is also associated with the love story of Lord Krishna and Radha. The story goes that Lord Krishna used to play pranks on the gopis (milkmaids) by throwing colored powder and water on them. The gopis would then chase him and try to smear him with colored powder as well. This is why Holi is celebrated with the throwing of colored powder and water.
Who started Holi in India?
According to Hindu mythology, the festival of Holi commemorates the burning of the demoness Holika, who tried to kill Prahlada, a devotee of Lord Vishnu. Prahlada was saved by Lord Vishnu, and Holika was burnt to ashes. This event is said to have taken place in ancient times, and over time, the celebration of this event evolved into the festival of Holi that is celebrated today.
Holi has also been associated with the love story of Lord Krishna and Radha, and their playful use of colors and water during the spring festival. This aspect of the festival has become an integral part of Holi celebrations, particularly in North India.
Why colours are used in Holi?
Colors are an integral part of the Holi festival, and people celebrate by smearing each other with colored powder and water. There are several reasons why colors are used in Holi:
- Mythological significance: According to Hindu mythology, the festival of Holi commemorates the victory of good over evil, and the burning of the demoness Holika. The colors used during the festival are said to represent the colorful nature of life, and the victory of good over evil.
- Celebrating the arrival of spring: Holi is celebrated during the spring season, which is a time of renewal and rejuvenation. The colors used during the festival are a way to celebrate the arrival of spring and the new beginnings it brings.
- Breaking down barriers: Holi is also a festival of love and friendship, and the use of colors is a way to break down social barriers and bring people together. During Holi, people of all ages and backgrounds come together to celebrate and have fun, regardless of their social status or background.
- Joy and merriment: Finally, the use of colors during Holi is simply a way to have fun and enjoy the festival. People throw colors on each other, dance, sing, and enjoy traditional foods and drinks, creating a joyful and festive atmosphere.