As Holi draws closer, travel plans across India take on a vibrant hue. Instead of quick weekend getaways, many travellers this year are choosing destinations where the festival is woven deeply into the local culture. According to digital travel platform Agoda, Rajasthan has emerged as the clear frontrunner this festive season, with multiple cities reporting substantial year-on-year growth in travel interest.
From Mathura's spiritual celebrations to Jaipur's royal festivities, these destinations offer vibrant colours, music, and traditions that bring the festival of Holi alive in unforgettable ways.
BARSANA (BRAJ)
In Uttar Pradesh's Braj region, this year too, the world-famous Lathmar Holi was celebrated with great enthusiasm and traditional dignity. Amidst flying gulal and the resounding chants of "Radhe-Krishna," the Barsana temple town was immersed in devotional fervor.
In keeping with tradition, the women wielded sticks, while the men, holding shields, played out their loving banter. This festival is not merely about colors, but a symbol of centuries-old cultural heritage, faith, and the unique exuberance of Braj.
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MATHURA AND VRINDAVAN
If you want to see Holi at its most traditional, head to Mathura and Vrindavan in Uttar Pradesh. Known as the birthplace of Lord Krishna, these towns celebrate for days with temple rituals, flower Holi, and devotional songs.
The atmosphere is intense, colorful, and deeply rooted in mythology. For many travellers, this is the most authentic Holi experience in India.
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Devotees flooded the Kashi Vishwanath temple in Varanasi to celebrate Rangbhari Ekadashi, celebrated days before Holi. (Photo courtesy: X@ShriVishwanath)
Masan Holi is celebrated near the cremation grounds at Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi. (Photo courtesy: UP Tourism)
VARANASI
In Varanasi, Holi takes on a deeper meaning. At the sacred cremation grounds, Masan Holi unfolds in devotion to Lord Shiva, where ash replaces colors and celebration meets contemplation. It is a reminder that life is fleeting, yet divine. Here, Holi becomes more than a festival. It becomes surrender, acceptance, and a profound embrace of existence itself.
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Hotel Khasa Kothi in Jaipur organized Holi festival exclusively for tourists on March 3. (Photo courtesy: Rajasthan Tourism)
JAIPUR
For travellers who want festivity with a bit more structure, Jaipur strikes the right balance. One can expect cultural performances, folk music and color play in palace courtyards and heritage hotels. Holi is celebrated as Dhulandi in Rajasthan. The Pink City recorded a staggering 282 per cent increase in accommodation searches compared to the Holi period last year, according to digital travel platform Agoda.
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Set against the serene lake waters, Udaipur’s Holi combines royal traditions with curated events. (Photo: AI-generated)
UDAIPUR
Udaipur combines tradition with scenic beauty. This city in Rajasthan hosts ceremonial bonfires on Holika Dahan and colorful celebrations the next day.
With lakes and palaces as a backdrop, it is ideal for travellers who want great photographs along with the festivities.
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Shantiniketan in West Bengal celebrates Holi as an artistic awakening with graceful dance performances and songs. (Photo courtesy: West Bengal Tourism)
SHANTINIKETAN
Known for Basanta Utsav, a celebration inspired by the traditions of Rabindranath Tagore, Shantiniketan’s Holi in West Bengal is marked by music, dance and artistic performances rather than high-energy color play. The emphasis on culture and creativity gives it a distinctive character that continues to attract travellers.
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HAMPI
In Karnataka, Hampi's UNESCO-listed ruins and expansive temple squares transform into vibrant gathering spaces during Holi, appealing to culture enthusiasts and history lovers who want a unique setting for the festival.
