India’s festival of colors, Holi, is among its most vibrant festivals. If you are a foreign national or NRI (non-resident Indian) who is willing to experience this festival at its best but confused about where to go in India to do so, here are the best places for Holi celebrations. So, here are the top places to celebrate Holi in India:
1. Mathura and Vrindavan – The Home of Holi
Mathura & Vrindavan is one of the best-represented places to observe Holi. Known as the towns associated with Lord Krishna, these towns have a week-long Holi celebration. The most famous of which are: Lathmar Holi (in Barsana men get playfully hit by women with sticks!) and Phoolon Ki Holi (Flower Holi) at the Banke Bihari Temple (in Vrindavan).
2. Barsana – Lathmar Holi Festivity
Lathmar Holi Dancing at Barsana Barsana close to Mathura is renowned for its novel Lathmar Holi, wherein ladies of Barsana mild beat guys of Nandgaon with sticks. It occurs a few days prior to the Holi festival and is popular with tourists internationally.
3. Jaipur – The Royal Way To Celebrate Holi
If you prefer a royal Holi experience, visit Jaipur. The City Palace usually organizes a Holi event, which involves cultural performances, herbal colors, and a nice royal welcome for tourists.
4. Life in the capital – Holi parties and a cultural crazy mix
Holi is celebrated in Delhi in traditional as well as modern styles. In addition to temple Holi celebrations, such as those that take place at ISKCON, colorful Holi parties with music and DJ are organized throughout the city.
5. Pushkar – Holi With A Backpacker’s Vibe
Pushkar is among the best Holi spots for international tourists. The whole town gets transformed into a lively party with music, colors, and dancing. The Holi celebration at the Pushkar main square is a unique experience.
6. Varanasi – Religious and Colourful Holi
Holi in Varanasi is celebrated in a traditional way and spiritually. The ghats of the Ganges turn into a melting pot of locals and tourists playing with colors, singing devotional songs, and relishing sweets like gujiya and thandai.
7. Holi Gem in South India — Hampi
While Holi is more widely celebrated in North India, the exception to this is Hampi in Karnataka. Drumming, dancing, and color play fill the ruins of this UNESCO World Heritage site during its amazing Holi celebration.
8. Shantiniketan — The Cultural Celebration of Holi
In West Bengal, Shantiniketan observes a traditional artistic Holi with Basanta Utsav, an event that was initiated by Rabindranath Tagore. Students wear traditional yellow dresses and perform cultural programs, and it is an elegant way to celebrate Holi.
How Foreigners and NRIs Celebrate Holi in India?
- Wear old clothes, as it can be quite a mission to wash off the colors.
- Protect your skin with organic colors.
- Travel with as few belongings as possible and don’t carry valuables.
- Stay hydrated and sample local Holi specialties like thandai and gujiya.
