| 6 mins read
The festival of colours, Holi, is one of the most spirited and vibrant festivals in India. Be it the colours, bhaang, dancing or traditional sweets like gujiya or puran poli, Holi unites people together with a sky-high festive spirit!
Legend says that the festival's origin is associated with the Hindu God- Krishna and his beloved- Goddess Radha Rani. As a kid, Krishna was known to be very mischievous and playful. When he was young, Krishna was jealous of Radha's fair complexion and complained about it to his mother, Yashoda. Who then suggested he apply colour on Radha to make her look like him. Since then, Holi has become the festival of colours, fun and love!
It is essential to know that although the festival originates from the Hindu religion, it is celebrated across the country with the same zeal and brotherhood. Today, tourHQ brings you the top 5 destinations in India to experience an authentic Holi celebration.
Barsana
Located in Uttar Pradesh, Barsana is believed to be the birthplace of Goddess Radha Rani. Hence, the Holi festivities are rich in tradition here. Worshipped as the goddess of love and compassion, Barsana has a beautiful temple dedicated to Radha Rani, named Shri Radha Rani Temple, located atop the Brahmagiri hills.
When it comes to the Holi celebration, Barsana is known for its unique celebration called Lathmar Holi. It happens in Barsana, 4-5 days prior to the actual Holi date. It is said that Krishna, along with his friends, used to visit Barsana during Holi to meet Radha, who was then a gopika (a milkmaid). They used to tease Radha and her friends, and in return, the ladies used to beat the guys playfully with lathis (sticks) without hurting them. This is how this unique and playful tradition began. You will find men dressed in traditional attire along with a turban. They also carry a shield, prepared to be playfully beaten by the ladies with lathis. All this with loads of colour, songs, dance and bhang, making it a Holi blast the traditional way!
Do you know? There is also another traditional event in Barsana called Laddumar Holi. It is celebrated a day before Lathmar Holi, wherein people throw the famous Indian sweet laddu at each other!
Planning to celebrate Holi in Vrindavan? Connect to tourHQ’s professional guides.
Mathura
Situated in the Braj region of Uttar Pradesh, Mathura is considered to be the birthplace of Krishna. Main celebrations in Mathura happen for two days - Holika Dahan and Holi.
On Holika Dahan, there is a large procession held in the afternoon, and it starts around 3 pm and continues till sunset. During the parade, vehicles are decorated with flowers, and pretty kids travel in them, dressed up as little versions of Krishna and Radha. The procession commences at Vishrama Ghat and finishes at Holi Gate. Then the traditional bonfire for Holika Dahan is set up at Holi Gate. On the day of Holi, Mathura is buzzing with energy. While there are multiple places to celebrate, Dwarkadhish Temple is known for serving the best bhang and gujiyas in town!
Do you know? On the day after Holi, Huranga Holi happens in Dauji Temple, located about 30 km from Mathura, where men pour coloured water on the women. In return, the women tear off the men's shirts and playfully beat up the men with their own shirts!
Want to explore Mathura more? Connect to the local tourHQ guides in the city.
Vrindavan
Vrindavan is another town located in the Braj region of Uttar Pradesh, where Krishna grew up during his childhood. Given its historical significance, Holi celebrations go on for an entire week here.
The central attraction is the Banke-Bihari Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna. The idol of Bihariji (another name for Krishna) is dressed in white clothes and brought towards the devotees to colour it and start the Holi proceedings. The temple also hosts a unique Holi celebration called Phoolon ki Holi (Flower Holi). For about 20 minutes, devotees in the temple celebrate Holi with flower petals! What a mesmerising scene to see beautiful flowers in the air!
Do you know? Vrindavan is also famous for including a 'stereotype-breaking' Holi event. It hosts Holi for widows in the town at the Gopinath Temple. It is an initiative aimed at bringing inclusivity. Indeed, a heart-warming moment to see widows get together and celebrate Holi.
Experience a memorable Holi celebration in Vrindavan with tourHQ's local guides.
Udaipur
The enchanting Udaipur (City of Lakes) is a place to celebrate Holi in a glorious manner. The royal family of Mewar participates actively in the grand 2-day celebrations that are a spectacle to watch. The grand festivities for the eve kick start with a bonfire set by the royal family on the city palace's grounds. Locals perform an alluring traditional dance called 'Gair' around the bonfire, which is truly a sight to behold.
Holika Dahan is followed by a majestic procession, accompanied by the royal family members in adorned elephants, camels and horses. The eve ends with a lip-smacking sumptuous dinner and cocktails served at the royal palace, followed by awe-inspiring fireworks.
On day 2 (the day of Holi), the locals and tourists in the City gather to enjoy Holi all across. While the celebrations are authentic on the streets, some villas and resorts also host tailor-made Holi parties.
Do you know? In Udaipur, natural herbal gulaals (skin-friendly colours) are popularly used in the City. It is a truly thoughtful and eco-friendly way of celebrating the festival!
Explore the enchanting 'City of Lakes' with tourHQ's local guides.
Pushkar
Pushkar, one of the oldest cities in India, is located in the Ajmer district of Rajasthan. Here also, the celebrations go on for two days.
Day 1 starts with Holika Dahan (the sacred bonfire) set up at the City's central chowk (main town square). It is then followed by folk music and dance.
On the day of Holi, Pushkar transforms into a party capital. You must be ready with your dancing shoes for a Holi blast in Pushkar. For party music lovers, Pushkar has to be the best place for a Holi party. More than a thousand people, including locals and tourists from India and abroad, gather at this happening square. They dance their hearts away and enjoy the spirit of Holi with bhaang and colours. The party starts early at 9 am and goes on till 5 pm.
Do you know? One of the biggest attractions of the Holi party in Pushkar is the celebration at the famous central chowk with thumping psychedelic trance and techno music booming on multiple speakers. So be prepared for a mad and crazy vibe party if you're planning Pushkar as your Holi destination.
Plan a beautiful spiritual excursion in Pushkar with tourHQ's guides.