14 Best Places in India to celebrate the Holi in 2024

Hey there, travel buddies! Holi is just around the corner, and you know what that means – it's time to unleash your inner child and get ready for a vibrant explosion of colors, music, and laughter! But with so many amazing places to celebrate Holi in India, where do you even begin? Fear not, we've got you covered!

Read more: Festivals that you can attend in India on January to April 2024

1. Braj ki Holi, Mathura and Vrindavan (UP):

This is THE place to be for an authentic and traditional Holi experience. Immerse yourself in the playful spirit of Braj, the land of Lord Krishna, where Holi celebrations stretch for weeks! Witness vibrant processions, witness the iconic Phool Holi (flower Holi) in Vrindavan, and experience the energy of Laddoo Holi in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, where devotees offer sweet treats to each other.

2. Lathmar Holi, Barsana (UP):

Get ready for a unique twist on Holi! In Barsana, near Mathura, women playfully chase men with sticks, a tradition called Lathmar Holi. This playful battle commemorates the love story of Radha and Krishna. Don't worry, men are expected to shield themselves with playful smiles and jokes!

3. Holi in Agra (UP):

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Witness the magic of Holi unfold against the majestic backdrop of the Taj Mahal. Agra's celebrations are a delightful mix of tradition and vibrancy, with colorful processions, lively music, and of course, the joy of throwing colors.

Read more: 2 days itinerary to Agra to make the most of it

4. Holi in Udaipur (Rajasthan):

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Experience a royal Holi in the City of Lakes! Udaipur's celebrations are known for their grandeur. Witness the royal procession, where the Mewar dynasty's flag is hoisted, followed by vibrant street performances and color throwing in the evening.

5. Holi in Jaipur (Rajasthan):

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Get ready for an electrifying Holi in the Pink City! Jaipur's Holi, also known as Eleholi, is all about exuberance. Witness the vibrant Elephant procession, join the energetic street celebrations, and don't forget to indulge in some delicious traditional sweets!

Read more: The Best 2 days itinerary for Jaipur - Explore the Pink City

6. Holi in Hampi:

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Experience a unique and unforgettable Holi celebration in the ancient ruins of Hampi. The festival is celebrated with great pomp and show, with people throwing colors at each other and dancing to the beats of traditional music. The highlight of Holi in Hampi is the chariot procession that takes place on the main day of the festival.

7. Holi at Basanta Utsav, Shantiniketan, West Bengal:

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The Basanta Utsav is a cultural festival organized by Visva-Bharati University in Shantiniketan, West Bengal. The festival is celebrated with great pomp and show, with people throwing colors at each other and dancing to the beats of traditional music. The highlight of Basanta Utsav is the dance performances by students of Visva-Bharati University.

Read more: West Bengal: Tagore's Residence Santiniketan Achieves UNESCO World Heritage Status

8. Holi at Hola Mohalla, Anandpur Sahib, Punjab:

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The Hola Mohalla is a Sikh festival that is celebrated in Anandpur Sahib, Punjab. The festival is known for its martial arts demonstrations and the use of traditional weapons.

9. Holi in Delhi:

Delhi is the capital of India and is one of the best places to celebrate Holi. The festival is celebrated with great pomp and show, with people throwing colors at each other and dancing to the beats of traditional music. The highlight of Holi in Delhi is the Holi Milan Mela, which is held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

Read more: 15 culinary delights from Delhi that you must try

10. Holi in Mumbai:

Mumbai is the financial capital of India and is one of the best places to celebrate Holi. The festival is celebrated with great pomp and show, with people throwing colors at each other and dancing to the beats of traditional music. The highlight of Holi in Mumbai is the Holi Milan Mela, which is held at the Shivaji Park.

Read more: Insider's guide to Mumbai: Where to eat, party and roam like a local!

11. Holi in Goa:

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Goa is a popular tourist destination that is known for its beaches and nightlife. Holi is also a popular festival in Goa, and the celebrations here are known to be quite wild. People from all over the world come to Goa to participate in the festivities.

Read more: Goa's Travel Etiquette: Dos and Don'ts for 5 Days

12. Raasaganga Holi Utsav, Yaoshang, Manipur:

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The Raasaganga Holi Utsav is a unique Holi festival that is celebrated in Manipur. The festival is known for its traditional dance performances and the use of natural colors.

13. Khadi Holi, Kumaon, Uttrakhand:

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The Khadi Holi is a unique Holi festival that is celebrated in Kumaon, Uttrakhand. The festival is known for the use of natural colors made from herbs and flowers.

14. Holi Moo Festival, Delhi and Mumbai:

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The Holi Moo Festival is a modern take on the traditional Holi festival. It is a multi-genre music festival that features live music, dance performances, and of course, lots of colors. The festival is held in Delhi and Mumbai and attracts people from all over the world.

These are just a few of the many amazing places to celebrate Holi in India. Remember, Holi is a festival for everyone, so get ready to embrace the spirit of joy, togetherness, and of course, lots of colors!

Read more: Experiencing Mysore Dasara: Your Ultimate Festival Guide

Pro Tip: Be sure to dress comfortably in clothes you don't mind getting stained, and carry a water bottle and sunglasses to keep yourself safe and comfortable during the celebrations.

So, which place are you most excited to experience Holi in?