Thursday, March 13, 2025
Holi, the festival of colors, is one of the most exhilarating celebrations in the world. Originating in India, this joyous festival has crossed borders, captivating people globally with its message of love, unity, and the triumph of good over evil. From the ancient temples of Vrindavan to the bustling streets of London and the sandy beaches of Bali, Holi has transformed into a global phenomenon. If you’re planning to immerse yourself in this vibrant spectacle, here are the best places around the world to celebrate Holi in 2024.
Vrindavan & Mathura, India – The Ultimate Holi Experience
If there’s one place that epitomizes the essence of Holi, it’s the twin cities of Vrindavan and Mathura. Known as the birthplace of Lord Krishna, Mathura hosts some of the most iconic Holi festivities in India. The celebrations kick off days in advance, with the famous Lathmar Holi in Barsana, where women playfully hit men with sticks, symbolizing a legendary event from Krishna’s life.
Vrindavan’s Banke Bihari Temple is another hotspot, where thousands gather to drench each other in colors amidst devotional chants and traditional music. The energy is unparalleled, and the spiritual atmosphere makes it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Best Time to Visit: The week leading up to Holi
Must-Do: Experience the Phoolon Ki Holi (Holi with flowers) at Banke Bihari Temple
Jaipur, India – A Royal Holi Celebration
Rajasthan’s capital, Jaipur, offers a regal Holi experience, blending tradition with grandeur. The City Palace hosts an exclusive Holi event, featuring traditional Rajasthani folk music, dance performances, and an explosion of colors.
Visitors can also experience Holi with elephants at the Jaipur Elephant Festival, where beautifully decorated elephants parade through the city, engaging in friendly games and tug-of-war competitions.
Best Time to Visit: Holi week
Must-Do: Attend the royal celebrations at City Palace and capture the vibrant colors against the pink hues of Jaipur’s architecture
Delhi, India – Holi with a Modern Twist
India’s capital city takes Holi to the next level with its fusion of traditional and modern celebrations. From cultural gatherings in old Delhi’s temples to Holi parties featuring DJs, rain dances, and organic colors, Delhi has something for everyone.
The Holi Moo Festival, formerly known as the Holi Cow Festival, is a must-visit event. It’s a vibrant mix of music, art, and color-filled madness, featuring local and international artists across multiple stages.
Best Time to Visit: Holi Day
Must-Do: Dance to live music at the Holi Moo Festival and explore the lively streets of Chandni Chowk for a traditional Holi feel
Pushkar, India – A Backpacker’s Holi Paradise
Pushkar, a small yet culturally rich town in Rajasthan, is famous for its bohemian vibe and Holi celebrations that attract travelers from around the world. The streets come alive with live music, dance, and color fights, making it one of the most vibrant places to celebrate Holi in India.
Expect a mix of locals and backpackers smearing each other with colors and enjoying the lively energy. The Holi in Pushkar is also known for its Bhang-infused drinks, adding a traditional and slightly euphoric touch to the celebrations.
Best Time to Visit: Holi Day
Must-Do: Enjoy rooftop views of the colorful chaos and experience the traditional charm of Pushkar
Kathmandu, Nepal – Holi in the Land of the Himalayas
Holi isn’t just an Indian festival—it’s widely celebrated in Nepal, especially in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Known as Fagu Purnima, Nepal’s Holi celebration is a mix of religious rituals and enthusiastic street revelry.
In Kathmandu’s Durbar Square, locals and tourists gather to throw colors, dance to Nepali music, and indulge in traditional sweets. The festival extends to lakeside Pokhara, where the Holi spirit blends with stunning mountain views.
Best Time to Visit: Holi Day
Must-Do: Celebrate in Kathmandu’s Durbar Square and enjoy Holi by the Phewa Lake in Pokhara
London, United Kingdom – A Global Holi Extravaganza
London hosts some of the biggest Holi celebrations outside India, bringing together diverse communities to enjoy the festival. Events like The Holi Festival of Colours and Holi in the Park offer a modern take on the traditional festival, featuring DJs, dance performances, and organic powders.
Whether you’re at Wembley Park or Trafalgar Square, London’s Holi celebrations are a fantastic way to experience the festival in a multicultural setting.
Best Time to Visit: March
Must-Do: Join the Holi Festival of Colours and enjoy Bollywood beats in the heart of London
Bali, Indonesia – A Beachside Holi Celebration
Bali’s growing Indian community has brought Holi to the island’s sandy shores. The festival is celebrated at temples, resorts, and beach clubs, creating a unique fusion of culture and tropical vibes.
From Ubud’s sacred ceremonies to color-throwing parties at Seminyak Beach, Bali’s Holi is a mix of spirituality and fun. The celebrations are family-friendly and attract locals and tourists alike.
Best Time to Visit: March
Must-Do: Experience Holi at a beachfront party in Seminyak or visit the Jagannath Temple in Denpasar for a traditional celebration
New York, USA – A Holi Festival in the Big Apple
New York’s Holi Hai Festival is one of the most exciting ways to experience Holi in North America. Hosted in locations like Governors Island and Central Park, this celebration attracts thousands of people eager to drench themselves in colors while dancing to Bollywood, EDM, and traditional beats.
The event also features food stalls offering Indian delicacies, making it a complete cultural experience.
Best Time to Visit: April (varies)
Must-Do: Celebrate at the Holi Hai Festival and enjoy an explosion of colors in the heart of NYC
Melbourne, Australia – A Colorful Aussie Holi
Melbourne’s Indian community celebrates Holi with grand outdoor events, live music, and massive color-throwing parties. The Holi Festival of Colours Melbourne is one of the largest Holi events in the Southern Hemisphere, offering a mix of culture, music, and food.
Best Time to Visit: March
Must-Do: Dance at the Holi Festival of Colours and enjoy authentic Indian street food
Final Thoughts
Holi has evolved into a global festival, with its spirit of joy and togetherness transcending borders. Whether you’re celebrating in the temples of India, on a beach in Bali, or at a music festival in New York, Holi is an experience that brings people together in the most vibrant way possible. So, pack your bags, pick your destination, and get ready for a festival of colour, joy, and unforgettable memories in 2025!
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