The onset of spring brings with it the festival of colours. Holi in India is fun, boisterous, and quirky all at the same time. It is the coming together of friends and family of all generations to play with gulaal and pichkari in hidden gullies, share a tandai or two and just have a gala time. Holi being such a personal celebration, draws people back home from far and wide. Irrespective of one’s schedule, travel during Holi is a must.
That’s not all, just like every other festival, Holi in India varies from state-to-state and the celebrations are magnanimous. While they are all filled with love, healthy competition, and unrestrained joy, these 5 places across the country will give you the ultimate splash of colour!
Mathura, Uttar Pradesh
Lord Krishna’s birth place between Delhi and Agra – the Braj region of India is synonymous to fervor and energy. Enveloped in miracles, Mathura shrines host the most extravagant and sensational celebrations in the country. Of them all, Dwarkadheesh Temple’s morning gathering of worshipers to sing, dance and chant under a cloud of gulal and the late noon procession from Vishram Ghat to Holi Gate is a must experience. Also, the Krishna Leela or Raas Leela – the dramatization of Krishna courting the beautiful Radha, and people throwing buckets of flowers and colours amidst loud chants of Radhe Radhe is a mood of its own.
Udaipur, Rajasthan
Set against the backdrop of royalty, Udaipur is the epitome of imperial celebrations. Starting from Holika Dahan – lighting of the ceremonial bonfire in the palace’s courtyard by the Maharaja. To the locals performing ‘Gair’- a traditional folk dance around the bonfire. And the procession from Shambhu Niwas Palace to Manek Chowk with royals seated on bedecked elephants, horses, and camels; accompanied by the royal music band – Holi in Udaipur is a dream. That’s not all, the night ends with fireworks, cocktails and dinner. The next day is dedicated to colours, sweets, music, dance and devotion.
Hampi, Karnataka
A parade of colours with a dash of history is Holi in Hampi. Breaking stereotypes, Hampi ruins reverberate cheer, vibrancy, and positive vibes. While the place is a riot of music, dance and dynamism amidst age old tales, a dip in River Tungabhadra is believed to cleanse colours from the body and washes away those sins. If you’re looking for a historic experience, head over to the grand Vijayanagar Empire.
Shantiniketan, West Bengal
Basanta Utsav a.k.a the Spring Festival, as introduced by the famous Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore. Holi at Shantiniketan is unique and magical. Smeared in various colours, the entire university joins in this merrymaking in shades of yellow. Taking you back to your college days, cultural performances are organized by the students and faculty. Unmatched zest and vigor is the motto for Holi.
Anandpur Sahib, Punjab
Celebrating the foundation of Khalsa (brotherhood), Hola Mohalla is a 3-day festival of martial arts, love and valor at Anandpur Sahib. Held on the edge of the Shivalik Hills, Sikh pilgrims flock from around the country to demonstrate and witness processions with traditional costumes, wrestling, and sword fighting. Weapon exhibition, poetry reading, kirtan, singing, dancing and Langar (voluntary community kitchen) are among other festivities in Punjab.
Paytm Travel understands Holi in India is a close knit affair. You are most comfortable splashing water and throwing colours at your loved ones and getting together to celebrate good over evil is priceless. That is why, Travel Rangotsav is the most epic festive sale on flights, bus and train tickets. We have unique offers and cashback for each mode of transportation and it is applicable for all but for a limited period of time only. It’s also a long weekend, so hurry up, check out our deals, and book your preferred journey. It’s time to paint your skin with colours and tint your soul with happiness.
Travel responsibly, follow safety protocols and have a colourful Holi 2022.
