Holi in Udaipur – What's Next?

Holi in India is not a single celebration. It is a collection of traditions shaped by geography, history, faith, and local culture. While Holi is often perceived as one day of colour and festivity, the reality is far more layered. Across the country, Holi unfolds in different ways, from temple rituals and royal ceremonies to musical gatherings and cultural festivals.

For travellers, this diversity makes Holi one of the most fascinating times to explore India, provided you choose the right destination. This guide is created for those researching where to travel during Holi in India, looking for the best places to celebrate Holi, or planning a Holi holiday based on experience, comfort, and travel style.

This is the first pillar of the Holi in India: Traditions, Places & Experiences series and serves as the foundation for destination-specific Holi guides.

Five women celebrating with colorful powder during a festival, smiling and wearing floral hair accessories.

What Is Holi and Why Is It Celebrated in India

Holi marks the arrival of spring and symbolises renewal, joy, and the triumph of good over evil. The festival is closely associated with Hindu mythology, including the story of Prahlad and Holika, as well as the playful legends of Lord Krishna in the Braj region.

While the meaning of Holi remains consistent, the way Holi is celebrated across India varies significantly, influenced by regional customs, dynasties, music traditions, and community practices. This variation is what makes Holi such a compelling festival for travellers.

When Is Holi Celebrated in India

Holi follows the Hindu lunar calendar and is usually celebrated in March.

Holika Dahan takes place the night before Holi, marked by ceremonial bonfires.
Rangwali Holi is the main day when people play with colours, music fills public spaces, and communities gather.

In destinations such as Mathura, Vrindavan, and parts of Uttarakhand, Holi celebrations begin days or even weeks before the main date, making advance planning essential for travellers.

A large bonfire surrounded by a crowd of people celebrating at night.

Best Places to Celebrate Holi in India at a Glance

This overview helps travellers quickly identify the right destination based on experience, crowd levels, and travel preferences.

Destination	Type of Holi	Crowd Level	Best For	Duration
Mathura & Vrindavan	Spiritual, temple-led	Very high	Cultural immersion, tradition seekers	7–10 days
Jaipur	Royal, cultural	Medium	Heritage-focused travellers	2–3 days
Udaipur	Ceremonial, royal	Medium	Elegant, structured celebrations	2 days
Pushkar	Bohemian, youth-driven	High	Social, high-energy travellers	1–2 days
Himachal Pradesh	Cultural festival-style	Low to medium	Scenic, balanced Holi	2–3 days
Uttarakhand (Kumaon)	Musical, community-led	Low	Peaceful, cultural travel	Multiple weeks

How to Choose the Right Holi Experience in India

Before deciding where to go, it helps to understand the different ways Holi is celebrated across the country.

Spiritual and temple-centred Holi focuses on devotion, rituals, and religious significance.
Royal and heritage Holi follows ceremonial traditions shaped by palace culture.
Cultural and music-led Holi highlights poetry, classical music, and community gatherings.
Bohemian Holi is lively, social, and crowd-driven.

Choosing the right style ensures your Holi experience matches your expectations.

Best Places to Celebrate Holi in India

Mathura and Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh

Best for: Spiritual travellers and immersive cultural experiences
Keywords: Holi in Mathura Vrindavan, Braj Holi, Phoolwali Holi, Lathmar Holi

Mathura and Vrindavan are considered the most iconic destinations for Holi in India. As the land of Lord Krishna, the region celebrates Braj Holi, a multi-day festival that includes temple rituals, devotional music, and unique traditions such as Phoolwali Holi at Banke Bihari Temple and Lathmar Holi in Barsana and Nandgaon.

Expect intense crowds and deeply religious energy. This destination is ideal for travellers seeking authenticity and cultural immersion.

A vibrant festival scene with people dressed in colorful traditional clothing, celebrating and participating in a lively gathering filled with music and dance.

Jaipur, Rajasthan

Best for: Heritage-led and culturally structured Holi
Keywords: Holi in Jaipur, Royal Holi in Rajasthan

Holi in Jaipur reflects Rajasthan’s royal heritage. Celebrations traditionally feature cultural performances, folk music, and palace-led events near the City Palace. Historically, royal families hosted ceremonial gatherings that shaped how Holi evolved in the city.

Jaipur is well suited for travellers who want a celebratory yet organised Holi experience rooted in culture.

A group of seven people celebrating Holi, covered in vibrant colored powders, posing happily in traditional clothing in front of intricately designed architecture.

Udaipur, Rajasthan

Best for: Elegant and ceremonial Holi celebrations
Keywords: Holi in Udaipur, Holika Dahan City Palace

Udaipur’s Holi centres around the Holika Dahan ceremony at the City Palace, marked by a royal procession, ceremonial bonfire, and traditional performances. Colour celebrations follow in select areas and private courtyards.

This destination suits travellers looking for a refined Holi experience with manageable crowds.

A beautifully illuminated historical palace in Udaipur at dusk, featuring a decorated area with a floral arrangement and a ceremonial setup, surrounded by people in traditional attire.

Pushkar, Rajasthan

Best for: Social, high-energy celebrations
Keywords: Holi in Pushkar, Pushkar Holi celebration

Pushkar hosts one of the most energetic Holi celebrations in India. The town square becomes the focal point for colour play, music, and large crowds, attracting young travellers and international visitors.

Pushkar is best suited for those comfortable with dense crowds and spontaneous celebrations.

An aerial view of a vibrant street festival with a large fire blazing in the center, surrounded by a crowd of people celebrating, adorned with colorful decorations and banners.

Himachal Pradesh (Palampur and Sujanpur Tira)

Best for: Cultural festivals in scenic settings
Keywords: Holi in Himachal Pradesh, Palampur Holi, Sujanpur Holi Fair

Holi in Himachal Pradesh is celebrated through organised cultural events rather than only street colour play. Palampur hosts a Holi Mahotsav, while Sujanpur Tira is known for its historic Holi fair at the Chaugan ground, rooted in the region’s royal past.

These celebrations combine folk performances, community gatherings, and scenic surroundings, making them ideal for travellers seeking balance and cultural depth.

A vibrant outdoor fair scene featuring a large ferris wheel surrounded by colorful stalls, a crowd of people enjoying festivities, and mountainous greenery in the background.

Uttarakhand (Kumaon Region)

Best for: Peaceful, music-led Holi
Keywords: Kumaoni Holi, Holi in Uttarakhand, Baithki Holi

Kumaoni Holi is distinct for its emphasis on classical music, poetry, and group singing rather than colour play. Celebrated in towns such as Almora, Nainital, and Ranikhet, it includes traditions like Baithki Holi and Khadi Holi, beginning weeks before the main festival.

This is one of the best destinations for travellers seeking a calm, culturally rich Holi experience.

A group of people in colorful traditional attire participating in a dance, forming a circle outdoors. Surrounding green hills and buildings are visible in the background.

Which Holi Destination Is Ideal for You

Choosing the right place to celebrate Holi in India depends on what kind of traveller you are and what you expect from the experience.

For first-time visitors to India
Jaipur and Udaipur are ideal due to their structured, culturally rich celebrations that are easier to navigate.

For spiritual and culture-focused travellers
Mathura and Vrindavan offer the most immersive and traditional Holi experience.

For travellers seeking calm and cultural depth
Uttarakhand’s Kumaon region and parts of Himachal Pradesh provide peaceful, music-led, and community-focused celebrations.

For social and high-energy travellers
Pushkar delivers a lively, crowd-driven Holi atmosphere popular with younger travellers.

For families and multi-generational travel
Udaipur, Jaipur, and select hill destinations offer space, safety, and flexibility.

Is Holi Safe for Tourists in India

Holi is generally safe for travellers when celebrated thoughtfully. Participating in organised or community-led events, respecting personal boundaries, and avoiding overcrowded lanes when uncomfortable can significantly improve the experience.

Three young men celebrating Holi, covered in colorful powders, smiling and showing their hands painted in pink, with vibrant trees in the background.

What to Wear and Carry During Holi

Old, comfortable clothing
Sunglasses for eye protection
Moisturiser or oil for skin and hair
Waterproof covers for phones and cameras

Holi Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Arrive at least one day before the main celebration
Avoid tight travel schedules on Holi day
Stay informed about local customs
Choose destinations aligned with your comfort level

Frequently Asked Questions About Holi in India

Which is the best place to celebrate Holi in India?
Mathura and Vrindavan are the most traditional, while Jaipur and Udaipur offer heritage-led celebrations.

Is it safe to travel during Holi in India?
Yes, especially when travellers plan accommodation carefully and participate in organised celebrations.

Where can tourists experience a peaceful Holi in India?
Uttarakhand and parts of Himachal Pradesh are known for calm, culturally focused Holi celebrations.

What is the best Holi destination for first-time visitors?
Jaipur and Udaipur are ideal due to their structured and accessible celebrations.

Planning Your Holi Travel in India

Holi offers a rare opportunity to experience India through its regional traditions. Whether you choose spiritual temples, royal ceremonies, cultural gatherings, or lively town celebrations, thoughtful planning ensures the experience feels rewarding rather than overwhelming.

This guide forms the foundation of the Holi in India: Traditions, Places & Experiences series, with detailed destination guides helping you plan every step of your Holi journey.

Holi, the festival of colour, is one of the major events in the Hindu calendar and is celebrated with much prompt all over India. It is no surprise that most of us begin a countdown to the festival days in advance. SaffronStays takes great pleasure in introducing you to some regions that celebrate Holi differently, where you can travel to make your Holi a little more festive this year.

Yes, Holi falls on a long weekend in 2016 and we think you should make the most of it!

1. A Royal Affair – Udaipur, Rajasthan

Holi is of particular importance to the people of Udaipur because of the special interest the members of the royal family take in bringing the festival of colour to their people. The first day of Holika Dahan is observed at the City Palace every year in the presence of Mewar’s Royal family. The customs of lighting the Holi pyre is traditionally performed by the current custodian of the Mewar dynasty. An elaborate function then takes place at the City Palace.

Click here to plan or book your stay in Udaipur

2. Elephant Festival – Jaipur, Rajasthan

What sets Holi in Jaipur apart from celebrations in any other part of the country is the Elephant Festival. Watch as elephant after elephant parades past you, bedecked in jewellery, anklets, bells and even elaborate head-plates specially designed for the procession. Elephants march into the Jaipur Polo Ground to the accompaniment of nagadas (Indian kettle drums) and bankiyas. Soon follow events which include elephant parades, elephant beauty contests, folk dances, and elephant tug-of-war. All of this makes for a beautiful Holi in Jaipur.

Note: The celebrations in Polo Ground have not included Elephants in the last 2 years. It would be advisable to check with the authorities in advance.

Click here to plan or book your stay in Jaipur

3. Carnival of Colors – Goa

Holi in Goa is celebrated as Shigmotsav, and is seen as a kind of fusion between the festival of colour and a full-fledged carnival. People from all religions and walks of life come together to drench each other in water and colour. Shigmotsav is celebrated over an entire fortnight, and the grand finale of the festival involves colourful parades and folk dances that are organised by the Goan locals. Of special mention are the artistically designed and beautifully lit floats that are taken out in Panaji and other places like Ponda, Vasco, Madgaon and Mapusa. The shimmering floats move along with the parade gripping the attention of a huge crowd that aligns the streets of Goa. It is a great time to experience a unique side of Goa.

Click here to plan or book your stay in Goa

4. 40 Days of Celebration – Kullu, Himachal Pradesh

The hill town of Kullu began Holi celebrations on the day of Basant Panchami in January. The festivities date back to 1660 AD when, Jagat Singh, the then King of Kullu, brought the idol of Lord Raghunath (Lord Rama) from Ayodhya and installed it at a temple in Sultanpur in Kullu. Since then, locals gather at the temple every year and apply gulaal or colors to the idol. Following a special ritual, the chariot of Lord Rama is wheeled to a festival ground, amidst the sound of drums and trumpets, where temporary camp is set up by devotees. Prayers and colors are offered for 40 days until the day of Holi. The festivities will definitely add to the charm of the snow-clad hill town, we think.

Click here to plan or book your stay in Kullu-Manali

5. Spring Festival – Shantiniketan, West Bengal

The renowned Poet Noble Laureate, Rabindranath Tagore, began the tradition of celebrating Holi as Basant Utsav or Spring Festival in Shantiniketan. Every year, the students and faculty of Vishva Bharati Institute dress up in colors of spring and put together a cultural programme for visitors – with colors, folk dances and performances to Tagore’s songs and poems. An important part of Bengal’s history and culture, the celebration of Basant Utsav in Shantiniketan is definitely worth travelling for.

Santiniketan is about 160 km from Kolkata and you can make the city your base and take a day trip from there. Click here to plan or book your stay in Kolkata

6. Traditional Celebration – Vrindavan & Mathura, Uttar Pradesh

This list will perhaps be incomplete without the mention of Holi celebrations in Uttar Pradesh. The towns of Mathura, the birthplace of Krishna, and Vrindavan, where he spent his childhood, come alive with colour and zeal for a whole week during Holi. What is interesting is that the different temples of Lord Krishna celebrate Holi on different days while the celebrations at Shri Banke Bihari Mandir in Vrindavan go on for an entire week. If you’ve ever wanted to experience the local culture of Uttar Pradesh, this is the best time to do so.

Mathura is about 160 km from Delhi.

Click here to plan or book your stay in Delhi

Where will you be celebrating Holi this year? Share with us in your comments.

About the Authors:

Born and raised in Assam, Sarita Santoshini has been travelling around India and penning down her experiences over the past year. She currently works as the Content Editor for SaffronStays. You can read more of her travelogues on her blog-http://crumbsfromyourtale.wordpress.com.

Alaric Moras spends most of his time reading, writing and interning with industries that read and write. He aims to become a clinical psychologist, providing therapy and catching Freudian slips during the day, writing and reading through the night. He likes all manner of animals, the smell of books, and the oxford comma.

Tag: Holi in Udaipur

Holi in India: Best Places to Celebrate, Traditions, Dates and Travel Guide