Embark on a Colorful Journey: 12 Holi Destinations in India with Exclusive Holiday Packages

Holi, the festival of colors, is one of the most exciting and blissful celebrations in India. It marks the arrival of spring and symbolizes the success of good over evil. During this festival, people come together to smear each other with colors, dance to traditional music, and indulge in festive treats. If you’re planning to experience the magic of Holi, here are the 12 best places in India to celebrate this colourful extravaganza, along with recommended holiday packages for an memorable experience.

Mathura and Vrindavan: Mathura and Vrindavan, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, are fabulous for their Holi celebrations. The festivities here start weeks before the real day of Holi. The ‘Lathmar Holi’ in Barsana, where women playfully hit men with sticks, is a must-see. Choose for holiday packages that comprise stays in heritage hotels, guided tours of temples, and participation in traditional Holi rituals.

2. Varanasi: Varanasi, the spiritual capital of India, celebrates Holi with countless fervour. The ghats along the River Ganges come alive with colors as locals and visitors gather to splash each other with water and powdered pigments. Holiday packages to Varanasi often include boat rides on the Ganges, visits to ancient temples, and immersive social experiences.

3. Jaipur: Jaipur, the Pink City of India, offers a royal Holi experience. The city’s magnificent palaces and forts provide the perfect backdrop for colorful celebrations. The ‘Elephant Festival’ held a day before Holi is a unique spectacle where elephants are adorned with vibrant colors and paraded through the streets. Look for holiday packages that combine Holi festivities with sightseeing tours of Jaipur’s architectural wonders.

4. Delhi: In Delhi, Holi is celebrated with gusto in various parts of the city. From traditional gatherings in residential colonies to grand parties at hotels and clubs, Delhi offers a various range of Holi experiences. Holiday packages for Delhi might include accommodation in upscale hotels, guided city tours, and access to exclusive Holi events.

5. Udaipur: Udaipur, with its picturesque lakes and palaces, becomes even more charming during Holi. The royal family of Mewar hosts a grand celebration at the City Palace, where guests are treated to traditional music, dance performances, and a lavish spread of Rajasthani delicacies. Choose holiday packages that offer stays in luxury resorts overlooking Lake Pichola and special access to the City Palace festivities.

6. Hampi: Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Karnataka, celebrates Holi in a unique way. The antique ruins amidst boulders provide a surreal setting for this colorful festival. Travelers can participate in community celebrations, explore the historic monuments, and trek through the scenic landscapes. Look for holiday packages that include guided tours of Hampi’s archaeological wonders and comfortable places in guesthouses or eco-resorts.

7. Shantiniketan: Shantiniketan, the abode of Rabindranath Tagore in West Bengal, is famous for its cultural significance during Holi. The Visva Bharati University organizes the ‘Basanta Utsav,’ a spring festival inspired by Tagore’s vision of celebrating nature and art. Travelers can immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of folk music, dance performances, and colourful processions. Holiday packages to Shantiniketan often include accommodation in guesthouses or heritage properties and participation in cultural events.

8. Pushkar: Pushkar, a sacred town in Rajasthan, hosts a unique Holi celebration centered around the Pushkar Camel Fairgrounds. Travelers can witness cultural performances, camel races, and traditional Holi rituals amidst the desert landscape. Holiday packages for Pushkar may include tented accommodation at the camel fair, camel safaris, and visits to nearby temples and villages.

9. Anandpur Sahib: Anandpur Sahib in Punjab is famous for its ‘Hola Mohalla’ festival, which coincides with Holi. This Sikh martial arts festival showcases bravery and valor through various demonstrations, including mock battles and acrobatic feats. Travelers can experience the rich Sikh heritage, savor Punjabi cuisine, and witness the colorful festivities. Look for holiday packages that offer stays in comfortable lodges or homestays in Anandpur Sahib and guided tours of the historical Gurudwaras.

10. Goa: In recent years, Goa has emerged as a popular destination for Holi parties and beach celebrations. Travelers can soak in the festive vibes at beachside shacks, where DJs spin lively tunes and revelers douse each other with colors. Holiday packages for Goa often include beachfront accommodation, water sports activities, and access to vibrant Holi parties.

11. Mumbai: Mumbai, the bustling metropolis of India, celebrates Holi with enthusiasm and energy. From street-side revelries in neighborhoods like Juhu and Bandra to exclusive parties at upscale hotels, there’s something for everyone in the city of dreams. Holiday packages for Mumbai may include stays in luxury hotels, guided tours of iconic landmarks, and VIP access to Holi events.

12. Rishikesh: Rishikesh, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, offers a serene yet spirited Holi experience. Travelers can participate in yoga sessions, meditation retreats, and eco-friendly Holi celebrations along the banks of the River Ganges. Holiday packages for Rishikesh often include stays in ashrams or wellness resorts, yoga and wellness activities, and guided excursions to nearby attractions.

Conclusion: Celebrating Holi in India is an experience like no other, with each region offering its own unique charm and traditions. Whether you prefer the grandeur of royal palaces, the tranquility of spiritual towns, or the vibrancy of beach parties, there’s a Holi destination in India to suit every traveler’s preferences. By choosing the right holiday package, you can ensure a memorable and immersive experience that celebrates the spirit of this colourful festival to the fullest.