Holi in Mathura and Vrindavan

Holi is celebrated across India with coloured powder and water, but the towns around Mathura and Vrindavan, in the Braj region of Uttar Pradesh, are where it becomes a season. Uttar Pradesh Tourism lists the celebrations for 2027 from 16 to 30 March, and the main days fall within the Holi of the full moon of Phalguna.

The two main days in 2027 are Holika Dahan on the evening of Sunday, 21 March, when bonfires are lit, and Rangwali Holi, the day of colours, on Monday, 22 March. In the days before, the region puts on its own events. In Barsana and Nandgaon there is Lathmar Holi, a playful contest between neighbouring towns. In Vrindavan there is Phoolon Ki Holi, in which people shower each other with fragrant flower petals, and the Widow Holi, which the tourism board presents as a symbol of inclusion and joy. Local operators expect Lathmar Holi in Barsana on 17 March and in Nandgaon on 18 March, with the petal Holi in Vrindavan on 18 March and Dauji Huranga in Baldeo on 23 March. These dates come from the temple and local calendars, so they can change, and none is confirmed yet.

How to go. Mathura and Vrindavan are close together, and a base in either one works. Book your stay long in advance, since rooms fill for the main days, and decide whether you want the crowded colour day or the earlier temple events in the days before. Wear old clothes you do not mind ruining, keep your phone and camera in a sealed waterproof bag, and protect your eyes and hair. Expect dense crowds and loud music on Rangwali Holi, and keep to the main streets. Confirm each event with your hotel in the week before the festival, as the Braj programme moves with the temples.