Holi, the festival of colours, is a grand celebration across India that encapsulates vibrant traditions, cultural expressions, and pure joy. From unique customs and traditional folk dances to ecstatic colour splashes and musical extravaganzas, Holi brings people together irrespective of caste, creed, or age. While Barsana, Mathura, and Vrindavan are well-known for their iconic celebrations, there are several other places in India where Holi is celebrated with equal zeal and unique flavours. Let’s explore some of the best destinations to experience Holi in 2025 beyond the usual hotspots.
Holi 2025 Dates
Holi in India will be celebrated on March 14 and 15, 2025. Some regions, like West Bengal and Odisha, observe the festival a day earlier, while places like Mathura and Vrindavan begin their celebrations a week in advance.
Best Places to Celebrate Holi in India Beyond Vrindavan in 2025
Basanta Utsav, Shantiniketan, West Bengal
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Holi in Shantiniketan, popularly known as Basanta Utsav, is a cultural spectacle initiated by Rabindranath Tagore. Inspired by the festival’s vibrancy, Tagore turned it into a celebration of art, music, and dance. Here, students of Shantiniketan wear saffron-coloured clothes and sing Tagore’s songs while performing traditional dances before the colours come into play. Another highlight is the Dol Jatra, a procession featuring idols of Radha and Krishna, accompanied by folk songs. Unlike other Holi celebrations, this one has an artistic and poetic touch, making it a must-visit for culture enthusiasts.
Khadi Holi, Kumaon, Uttarakhand
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The Kumaoni Holi is a musical celebration that lasts for nearly two months. Locals wear traditional attire like Chudidaar, Nokdaar Topi, and Kurta Pyjama, singing Khari songs while dancing in groups to the beats of Dhol and Hurka. There are different forms of Kumaoni Holi, such as Khari Holi, Mahila Holi, and Baithki Holi, where the songs follow a specific sequence depending on the time of day. The colours used here are made from natural sources like flower extracts, ash, and water, keeping the festival eco-friendly and unique.
Hola Mohalla, Anandpur Sahib, Punjab
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In Punjab, Hola Mohalla is about throwing colours and displaying strength and valour. This warrior Holi festival is organized by the Nihang Sikhs, where participants exhibit martial arts skills, including sword fighting, horse riding, and acrobatics. Women, on the other hand, celebrate Holi by painting their homes with intricate designs called Chowkpoorana. Though colours are not the main attraction, the sheer energy and enthusiasm make it an unforgettable experience.
Raasaganga Holi Utsav, Yaoshang, Manipur
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In Manipur, Holi merges with the traditional Yaoshang festival, resulting in a six-day-long celebration of dance, music, and devotion. The festival begins with the burning of hay and twigs, followed by a lively folk dance called Thabal Chongba, where men and women dance to the beats of drums under the full moon. The Raasaganga Holi Utsav is a major highlight, with people dressed in yellow and white turbans, playing with Gulal amidst bonfires. The grand finale involves a procession to Krishna temples, making it a spiritual yet vibrant experience.
Udaipur & Jaipur, Rajasthan
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In Rajasthan, Holi takes on a regal charm, especially in Udaipur and Jaipur. The Mewar royal family of Udaipur hosts a grand Holika Dahan celebration, followed by a procession featuring elephants, camels, and horses, accompanied by a royal band. Jaipur’s famous Elephant Festival coincides with Holi, where visitors can enjoy elephant polo, traditional folk dances, and even a tug-of-war between men and an elephant. The festival here offers an elegant and extravagant experience, blending Rajasthan’s rich heritage with Holi’s colourful madness.
Sangla, Himachal Pradesh
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Imagine celebrating Holi with snow-capped peaks as your backdrop! In Sangla, Himachal Pradesh, Holi is not just about colours but about tribal dances, folk songs, and temple rituals. The festivities begin at the Kamru Fort temple, where people seek blessings before indulging in traditional Kinnauri dances and masked performances. The eco-friendly colours, crisp mountain air, and serene environment make it a refreshing alternative to the usual chaotic Holi celebrations in the cities.
Also Read: Holi 2025 Date: Will It Be Celebrated on March 14 or 15?
About the Author:
Akanksha Sinha
I'm Akanksha Sinha, an expert in writing sports blogs, news, and various articles for entertainment and more. I bring a unique flair to my work, providing insightful perspectives on the world of sports.
My articles aim to inform and entertain, making me a go-to source for sports enthusiasts seeking a blend of information and enjoyment. With a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, I consistently deliver compelling narratives that resonate with a diverse audience.
