Holi, India's festival is basically the world’s biggest color party. It marks the end of winter and the start of spring, but for travelers, it is an intense, high energy experience you will never forget. In 2026, the main event happens on March 4, though some cities start celebrating up to a week early. This guide breaks down exactly where to go, what to eat, and how to survive the chaos without ruining all your gear.
Mathura: The Birthplace of the Party
If you want the most traditional experience, Mathura is where it is at. It is the birthplace of Lord Krishna and the energy here is unmatched.
Morning at Dwarkadhish Temple
The Dwarkadhish Temple is the center of the action in Mathura. Go early in the morning to see the priests and locals starting the rituals with music and massive amounts of color. It gets incredibly crowded, so be ready for a tight squeeze.
The Holi Procession
A huge parade moves through the streets from Vishram Ghat to the Holi Gate. It features floats, musicians, and performers, making it one of the best spots for photography if you can keep your camera protected in a plastic bag.
Check out our blog on visiting Chand Baori, only a 3 hour drive from Mathura!
Vrindavan
Just a short drive from Mathura, Vrindavan is where things get a bit more spiritual but no less wild.
Phoolon Wali Holi
One of the coolest things to see is Phoolon Wali Holi at the Banke Bihari Temple. Instead of colored powder, the priests throw fresh flower petals over the crowd. It only lasts about 30 minutes, so timing is everything.
Banke Bihari Temple Chaos
On the main day of Holi, Banke Bihari is the place to be. The air is thick with colored clouds and the sound of "Radhe Radhe" chants. It is a sensory overload in the best way possible, but expect to be completely covered in dye within minutes.
Pushkar: The Backpacker Choice
For a more social, party heavy vibe, head to Pushkar. It is a holy town that turns into a massive open air club during the festival.
Main Square Street Parties
The main square in Pushkar becomes a giant dance floor with DJs playing a mix of folk and EDM. It is very popular with international travelers and has a very inclusive, friendly atmosphere.
Evening Bonfires by the Lake
The night before the color play, everyone gathers at the lake for Holika Dahan. They light massive bonfires to symbolize the victory of good over evil, and it is a great time to soak in the local culture before the madness of the next day.
Holi Festive Food: What to Eat
You can't do Holi without hitting the snack table. Holi festive food is a huge part of the experience.
Gujiya: The Essential Sweet
Gujiya is the MVP of Holi snacks. It is a deep fried pastry stuffed with sweetened milk solids (khoya) and nuts. You will find them everywhere in North India.
Thandai and Bhang
Thandai is a chilled, spiced milk drink made with almonds and saffron. It is incredibly refreshing in the heat. Sometimes it is served with bhang, which is a traditional cannabis paste. If you decide to try it, go slow; the effects can be very strong and take a while to kick in.
Holi Beyond the Border
While India is the heart of the celebration, you do not have to be in the country to experience the magic. Large diaspora communities and global fans have turned Holi into a worldwide event.
Kathmandu, Nepal
In Nepal, Holi is known as Fagu Purnima and is celebrated with just as much intensity as in India. Kathmandu Valley is the place to be. The celebration is split over two days, with the hills celebrating first, followed by the Terai region the next day.
Spanish Fork, Utah, USA
Believe it or not, one of the biggest Holi festivals in the world happens in rural Utah at the Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple. It is a massive two day event in late March that features hourly color countdowns, live mantra bands, and yoga sessions. It is extremely family friendly and draws thousands of people from across North America.
London and Mauritius
London hosts several massive outdoor parties, specifically in East and West London, featuring live DJs and dhol players. If you want a tropical vibe, Mauritius celebrates with beachside bonfires and color throwing that brings together almost everyone on the island, regardless of their background.
Making the Most of the Experience
Whether you are in a crowded temple in Mathura or at a beach party in Mauritius, the physical demands of Holi are the same. Transitioning from choosing a location to actually surviving the day requires a bit of tactical planning regarding your gear and your appetite.
What to Wear to Holi Festival
When thinking about what to wear to Holi fstival, the golden rule is to wear things you are 100 percent okay with throwing away afterward. Most people wear white cotton because it makes the colors pop, but keep in mind that white becomes see through when you get hit with water Sunglasses are also essential to keep the colored powder. out of your eyes.
Fact: The colored powder is called gulal
Skin and Hair Prep
Before you head out, coat yourself in coconut oil or a thick moisturizer. This creates a barrier so the dye does not sink into your pores, making it much easier to scrub off later. Do the same for your hair; oil it up and tie it back or wear a scarf to keep the pigments from staining your scalp. Don't forget a heavy layer of sunscreen since you will be outside in the March sun all day.
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