Beyond Vrindavan: 5 Epic Places to Celebrate Holi Like Never Before!

In India, the most colourful festival on the calendar is Holi, which is celebrated with huge enthusiasm and zest, a time when the Indian people celebrate the arrival of Spring and the victory of good over evil. While Vrindavan and Mathura are popular for their extravagant celebrations, many other places can be considered as other alternative destinations that are well worthy of a special and unforgettable Holi celebration. Here are five places outside of Vrindavan where you can witness Holi in full fervor:



In the royal capitals of Jaipur and Udaipur, Holi is observed with a mix of royal extravagance and traditional fervor. The HariDhaanka is followed by a ritual fire – Holika Dahan – signifying the victory of good over evil. Jaipur- The festival has been showcased with traditional folk dances and music performances by the Royal family on the roads. The whole processions depict Rajasthan's rich culture. The festivals of Udaipur are one of the most adorned assets of the city as the natives and travelers lounge around the magnificent lakes surrounded by colors play and cultural shows. The City Palace also celebrates with the guests receiving a view of the royal members taking part in the ceremony — blown away by this otherworldly cultural experience.



Pushkar, a town in Rajasthan, has long been popular with backpackers and overseas tourists for its vibrant and interactive Holi festival.
Residents from all walks of life gather on the narrow streets of Pushkar to a music, dance and color-filled celebration. The lazy town atmosphere blended with the catch-me-if-you-can spirit of Holi offers a leisurely yet inclusive experience. Most of the guesthouses and cafes also organize special hints, making it possible for the tourist to have a safe and comfortable Holi.



In Delhi, the capital of the nation, Holi is celebrated by combining modern functions as well as traditional functions.
Holi celebrations are conducted by different organizations and event planners with the best music artists, DJs, and dance shows to attract a younger audience looking for a contemporary version of the traditional occasion.
The festivals usually include rain dances, food stalls and colour-play zones, and are safe and great fun for all involved. For others, there are Holi parties held at the community level where families and friends celebrate together.



Varanasi is among the oldest walking cities in the world. The festival begins in the ghats, where believers perform religious ceremonies and take holy dips in the Ganges River.
During the day, people play with colors and smear each other with gulal (colored powder) and sing traditional folk songs.
A unique experience that you will never forget is the combination of the spiritual atmosphere of Varanasi and the fervor of Holi.



Founded by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, the university town of Shantiniketan celebrates Holi as 'Basanta Utsav' or Spring Festival. Cultural activities, including traditional dances, songs and recitation of poems by students of Visva-Bharati University, are also held as part of the festival. They wear shades of golden yellow, in homage to the blinding light of spring, and handle color with poised, studied abandon.
Basanta Utsav as a festival, becomes special and enriching because of the importance given to cultural performances combined with peace and harmony.
Traveling to these diverse locations, you can live the multi-dimensional and colorful Holi of India, which are unique both in terms of its allure and traditions. Whether it is the royal festivity of Rajasthan or the cultural refinement of Shantiniketan or the devotion of Varanasi that draws you, there is a Holi for you other than the globally famous lanes of Vrindavan.