Holi across India is not just about colour, it’s a celebration of culture, tradition and the joy of spring. From playful children to jubilant elders, from sacred rituals to lively dances, the festival hums with life, inviting everyone to lose themselves in its vibrant embrace. From royal rituals in Udaipur to Shantiniketan's Basant Utsav and Manipur's Yaosang, each region brings its own lively traditions and festive joy.

Here are some of the best Holi destinations across the country where people celebrate the festival with pomp and grandeur:

Mathura, Uttar Pradesh

Holi in Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, is legendary. The city comes dazzles with vibrant hues and melodies. The highlight is at Dwarkadhish Temple in the morning, followed by a colourful procession from Vishram Ghat to Holi Gate, featuring youngsters dressed up as Krishna and Radha.

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Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh

Centred around Banke Bihari Temple, Vrindavan's celebrations include the famous Phoolonwali Holi, where priests shower devotees with flowers. Around noon, the Widows’ Holi at Gopinath Temple gives widows their own joyous celebration.

Barsana, Uttar Pradesh

Barsana is a place widely known for its famous Lathmar Holi, where women playfully tend to beat men with sticks in a robust of Radha and Krishna's legendary Holi encounters.

Agra, Uttar Pradesh

The city of the Taj Mahal celebrates Holi with enthusiasm. Streets are filled with people throwing colours, dancing to folk songs, and enjoying bhang.

Udaipur, Rajasthan

Holi in Udaipur has a unique royal essence. The former maharaja lights the ceremonial Mewar Holika Dahan bonfire at the City Palace, accompanied by folk dances and a splendid parade of elephants, horses, and camels.

Shantiniketan, West Bengal

In Shantiniketan, Holi is celebrated as Basant Utsav, a festival introduced by Rabindranath Tagore. Yellow dominates the celebrations, with students playfully throwing colours.

Hampi, Karnataka

Holi in Hampi starts with the Holika Dahan bonfire and continues with drumming, colours, and celebrations around the ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire. Bathing in the Tungabhadra River is believed to wash away not just colours but sins too.

Manipur

Holi coincides with Yaosang, Manipur's indigenous festival. For over five days, locals enjoy folk dances, music, bonfires, sporting events, and of course, vibrant colour play.

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Anandpur Sahib, Punjab

In Anandpur Sahib, spring is marked by Hola Mohalla, a tradition established by Guru Gobind Singh. Nihang Sikhs display martial skills, including wrestling, sword fighting, and horse-riding feats, showcasing courage alongside the festivities.