Braj Holi Festival Tour 2025

Experience the Vibrant Holi Festivities in Barsana and Vrindavan.

Start your day with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Delhi and embark on a delightful journey to Barsana, a quaint town roughly 50 kilometers (30 miles) from Mathura. As you arrive, immerse yourself in the joyous spirit of Laddoo Holi, a unique and vibrant celebration where devotees shower one another with laddoos, a type of sweet, round Indian delicacy.

Barsana holds immense significance in Hindu mythology, for it's considered the place where the beloved Goddess Radha spent her childhood and early adulthood. The sacred Radha Rani Temple, also known as Shriji Temple, stands majestically atop the Brahmagiri Hills, honoring the divine Radha. This Holi celebration unfolds within the temple premises, where priests shower devotees with laddoos as a divine blessing. Bright yellow laddoos are a preferred choice, symbolizing Lord Krishna's (Radha's love) favorite color.

Witnessing the joyful exchange of laddoos amidst vibrant music and dance creates an unforgettable experience. It's a spectacle of sheer color, revelry, and devotion, unique to this specific Holi celebration. After experiencing the electrifying Ladoo Holi festivities, proceed to Vrindavan in the afternoon for an overnight stay at your hotel.

Vrindavan, is a town revered for its deep association with Radha and Krishna, offers a plethora of spiritual and cultural experiences for you to discover on the following day.

Please Note: We suggest you to arrive 1 day before in New Delhi, so that you don't miss any Holi Celebrations activity in Braj Bhoomi.

Immerse in the Playful Power of Lathmar Holi: Where Women Reign with Sticks!

Get ready to witness a Holi unlike any other, where laughter mingles with playful combat, and women take center stage! Enter the electrifying world of Lathmar Holi, a unique celebration in Braj, Uttar Pradesh.

What is Lathmar Holi?

Imagine vibrant streets awash with colour, pulsating with music, and echoing with joyous chants. But here's the twist: women hold bamboo sticks (lathis), ready to playfully chase and tap the men with them. Yes, you read that right! In Lathmar Holi, women playfully "beat" the men, celebrating the playful banter and mischievous bond between Radha and Krishna.

Unleashing the Joyful Conflict:

Lathmar Holi is more than just a playful skirmish. It's a chance for women to playfully assert their power and revel in their vibrant spirits. Men, on the other hand, embrace the challenge, shielding themselves with shields (dhals) and trying to catch the colorful gulal thrown by the women.

Unique in the World:

This celebratory battle of colors and sticks is a sight to behold! Lathmar Holi is celebrated in the Braj region of Uttar Pradesh, making it a uniquely Indian experience. Nowhere else in the world will you find women playfully wielding lathi and men gleefully dodging them amidst such joyous revelry.

When and Where to Witness the Magic:

Lathmar Holi commences around 4:30-5 PM on the streets near the Radha Rani Temple in Barsana. If you're looking for an unforgettable Holi experience, mark your calendars! This vibrant celebration is a chance to witness the true spirit of Holi, where playful combat gives way to shared laughter and joyous camaraderie.

Join the Festivities:

So, ditch the usual Holi colours and pick up a lathi! Immerse yourself in the playful power of Lathmar Holi, experience the unique traditions of Braj, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Just remember, a touch of the lathi is considered a blessing here, so embrace the joyful conflict and let your playful spirit soar!

Overnight stay at the hotel in Vrindavan.

Day 3 is all about Nandgaon, the village where Lord Krishna spent his childhood. Here, the women take center stage, armed with gulal and shields, ready to playfully "revenge" for the men of their village who were chased and playfully tapped with sticks by the Barsana ladies on Day 2. Remember, it's all in good fun!

Overnight stay at the hotel in Vrindavan.

Brace yourself for a day bursting with dazzling colours and intoxicating fragrances! Day 4 of Holi offers a double dose of vibrant celebrations, each unique in its own way. Let's dive into the mesmerizing worlds of Phoolwali Holi in Vrindavan and the grand Holi festivities in Mathura:

Phoolwali Holi: Dancing in a Shower of Petals

Experience Holi like never before at the enchanting Phoolwali Holi in Vrindavan. Embrace a riot of colour, not of synthetic dyes, but of fragrant petals! This captivating celebration unfolds at the Banke Bihari Temple, a sacred sanctuary dedicated to Lord Krishna, considered the holiest of its kind in the world.

Imagine the temple grounds transformed into a fragrant paradise. As the doors open, priests shower devotees with an avalanche of vibrant flower petals – marigolds, roses, jasmine, and more – creating a breath-taking spectacle of colour and fragrance. Devotees dance and twirl amidst the floral rain, their bodies adorned with garlands and their faces splashed with fragrant hues.

Phoolwali Holi is a celebration of divine blessings and devotion. The fragrance of the petals symbolizes purity and spiritual rejuvenation, and being showered with them is considered a divine shower of grace. So, immerse yourself in the floral fragrance, surrender to the joyful dance, and let the divine beauty of Phoolwali Holi wash over you.

Mathura: Where Holi Comes Alive with Tradition and Grandeur

While Vrindavan dances in a shower of petals, Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, explodes with vibrant colours and joyous revelry. Here, Holi transforms into a vibrant street festival, where residents and visitors alike lose themselves in the infectious energy of the celebrations.

Witness the streets painted in a kaleidoscope of colors as people drench each other in vibrant gulal. Energetic drum beats and pulsating music set the rhythm for the revelry, as dancers twirl and sing, lost in the joyous melody of Holi. The festivities culminate in a grand Holika Dahan ceremony, where a bonfire symbolizing evil is burnt, marking a fresh start and a hopeful new beginning.

Mathura's Holi is a celebration of life, of joy, and of the triumph of good over evil. It's a chance to break down social barriers, mingle with locals, and experience the true spirit of this ancient festival. So, join the vibrant revelry, embrace the spirit of Holi, and paint your own story of joy and color in Mathura.

With open hearts and vibrant spirits, delve into the captivating world of Day 4 Holi in Vrindavan and Mathura. Let the magic of flowers, colours, and joyous traditions paint your Holi experience with unforgettable memories.

Overnight stay at the hotel in Vrindavan.

As your Holi journey approaches its finale, prepare to witness a charming twist on the playful combat of the festival! Day 5 takes you to Gokul, a quaint town nestled roughly 15 km (10 miles) from Mathura, where Chhadi Mar Holi adds a touch of gentle whimsy to the celebrations.

Gokul: Krishna's Playground Reborn

Gokul holds a special place in Hindu mythology. It's believed to be the childhood abode of Lord Krishna, where he frolicked and played during his early years. This deep connection with Krishna permeates the atmosphere of Chhadi Mar Holi, transforming it into a vibrant celebration of his playful spirit.

Krishna Takes Center Stage:

In Gokul, Krishna isn't merely worshipped; he's treated like a beloved child. His idols adorn every corner, swaying gently in jhoolas (swings) as if enjoying the festive energy. Witnessing these jhoolas adorned with flowers and vibrant cloth creates a sense of childlike wonder, reminding us of Krishna's playful nature.

Chhadi Mar Holi: A Gentle Dance of Wands

Chhadi Mar Holi translates to "Wand Beating" Holi, aptly capturing the essence of the celebration. Here, the playful pursuit of Lathmar Holi takes a softer turn. Local women, armed with chadis (small sticks or wands), playfully tap the men, teasing and chasing them through the colourful streets.

Unlike the energetic chase and playful "beating" of Lathmar Holi, Chhadi Mar is an affair of gentle taps and mischievous laughter. It's a delightful spectacle where men playfully shield themselves with shawls, dodging the chadis with smiles and good-natured banter.

So, let Day 5 of your Holi journey be painted with the gentle taps of chadis and the infectious laughter of Gokul. Immerse yourself in the playful traditions, witness the childlike spirit of Krishna reignited, and create memories that will stay with you long after the colourful dust settles.

Overnight stay at the hotel in Vrindavan.

As your vibrant Holi journey nears its finale, prepare to witness a poignant celebration that redefines the spirit of the festival. Day 6 takes you to Vrindavan, not just for a vibrant celebration, but for a heart-warming event – Widow Holi at Gopinath Temple.

Vrindavan: A City Where Tradition Transforms

Vrindavan, often revered as the "city of widows," holds a unique place in Indian culture. Over 6,000 widows call this holy town home, having chosen or been forced into a life of seclusion and simplicity after losing their husbands. Traditionally, societal norms restricted widows from wearing vibrant colours or celebrating festivals.

A Beacon of Hope: Sulabh International and the Birth of Widow Holi

In 2013, a ray of hope shone through this tradition. The social service organization Sulabh International launched Holi celebrations specifically for the widows of Vrindavan. This marked a pivotal moment, breaking down societal barriers and allowing these women to experience the joy and vibrancy of Holi.

A Day of Colour and Connection:

Witnessing Gopinath Temple on Day 6 of Holi is a sight to behold. Widows, not confined to white saris, embrace a kaleidoscope of colours – reds, pinks, and greens. The air vibrates with joyous laughter and devotional songs as they throw vibrant powders and fragrant petals, dancing and celebrating with newfound freedom.

So, let Day 6 of your Holi journey be a testament to the transformative power of tradition and inclusivity. Witness the vibrant colours of Widow Holi in Vrindavan, celebrate the resilience of these extraordinary women, and carry the essence of this heart-warming experience long after the colours fade. Overnight stay at the hotel in Vrindavan.

Embrace the magic of Day 7 with a journey to Agra, a city forever intertwined with the legacy of love and architectural splendor. As the day breaks at 8:00 AM, embark on a captivating exploration of this imperial treasure trove, starting with the iconic Taj Mahal.

Taj Mahal: A Poem in Marble

Prepare to be awestruck by the Taj Mahal, a magnificent ode to love etched in white marble. Emperor Shah Jahan's dedication to his beloved Mumtaz Mahal finds eternal expression in this architectural marvel. Immerse yourself in the intricate details, the delicate inlay work, and the sheer grandeur of this timeless monument, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Stepping Back in Time: The Agra Fort

From the ethereal beauty of the Taj Mahal, step into the imposing world of the Agra Fort. This formidable historical fort served as the Mughal Dynasty's primary residence until 1638. Explore its labyrinthine corridors, discover its hidden gems, and imagine the whispers of history echoing within its majestic walls.

A Jewel in Miniature: Itmad-ud-Daula

Next, let your imagination be captured by the exquisite Itmad-ud-Daula. This Mughal mausoleum is often called a "draft of the Taj Mahal" for its architectural similarities. Marvel at its intricate carvings, delicate marblework, and mesmerizing semi-precious stonework, and let its beauty transport you to a bygone era of artistic flourish.

As the sun dips below the horizon, bidding farewell to Agra, take with you the enchanting memories of this day. Return to Vrindavan with a heart brimming with wonder and a treasure trove of stories to share for years to come. Overnight stay at the hotel in Vrindavan.

As Day 8 dawns, prepare to witness the culmination of vibrant celebrations and the symbolic triumph of good over evil. Holi's grand finale unfolds in two spectacular ways: the iconic Holika Dahan ceremony and the joyous celebrations in Brijbhoomi.

Holika Dahan: Fire and Renewal in Mathura

As the sun dips below the horizon, head to Holi Gate in Mathura to experience the captivating ritual of Holika Dahan. A towering bonfire, crackling with energy, awaits. This fire symbolizes the burning of Holika, the demoness representing evil. Witnessing its flames devour the effigy is a powerful reminder of the ultimate victory of light and virtue.

The atmosphere at Holi Gate is electric. Chants fill the air, drums beat a rhythmic pulse, and the glow of the fire paints the faces of revellers in a warm, vibrant light. Join the locals in chanting hymns, offering prayers, and celebrating this ancient ceremony that cleanses and purifies.

Brij's Holi Finale: A Symphony of Colour and Devotion

But the day's magic isn't confined to the flames. In Brij, two joyous celebrations beckon. At Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan, step into a vibrant spectacle from 9 AM to 1:30 PM. Priests shower devotees with a fragrant rain of colorful powders and holy water. Lose yourself in the music, dance with abandon, and engage in playful colour fights amidst the joyful throngs.

For a different kind of experience, join the grand procession starting at Vishram Ghat in Mathura around 3 PM. Watch young people, dressed as Krishna and Radha, twirling in colorful attire and showering each other with vibrant hues. The procession weaves through the streets, pulsating with music and laughter, as it makes its way to Holi Gate by sunset. Immerse yourself in the infectious enthusiasm of the locals and join the parade to experience the true spirit of Holi.

Overnight stay at the hotel in Vrindavan.

Dhulandi: Unveiling the Vibrant Pulse of Holi in Mathura

Dhulandi, the main day of Holi, bursts onto the scene, painting Mathura in a kaleidoscope of colours and infectious joy. To truly soak in the vibrant essence of this day, head to the heart of the festivities: Holi Gate and its surrounding streets. This lively hub pulsates with energy as revellers, adorned in vibrant attire, engage in playful colour fights, sing along to pulsating rhythms, and lose themselves in the sheer exuberance of the day.

Dwarkadhish Temple: A Divine Touch of Color

Just a kilometre away from Holi Gate, Dwarkadhish Temple offers a unique perspective on Holi celebrations. Step through the temple gates around 10 AM and immerse yourself in the joyous chaos. Be prepared for early crowds, as devotees eagerly await the festivities. If you arrive early, you might be witness to a special sight: priests preparing bhang, a traditional cannabis drink often consumed during Holi, and witnessing colourful processions at Yamuna Ghat.

As the clock strikes 10 AM, the temple grounds erupt in a vibrant symphony of colour. Join the revellers as they throw gulal, dance to captivating dhol beats, and sing melodious Holi hymns. Compared to the exuberant chaos of Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan, the atmosphere here is a touch more controlled, yet the spirit of Holi burns just as brightly.

Dhulandi in Mathura promises an unforgettable Holi experience. Immerse yourself in the vibrant colours, the infectious joy, and the pure unadulterated fun of this ancient festival. Let the spirit of Holi paint your memories with vivid hues and leave you dancing to the rhythm of celebration long after the colours have settled.

Overnight stay at the hotel in Vrindavan.

After breakfast at the hotel, our representative will transfer you to the New Delhi airport to board the flight to your home or onward destination.

YES. We can customize your India Holiday Package, as per your interest, and preferences.

On arrival at New Delhi Airport, India, our local representative will be there at the airport holding a placard of your name for identification. We shall also provide you list of emergency 24 hours contact numbers for any emergency.

Although tipping in India is not compulsory, doing so is a nice gesture. In some circumstances, a small tip is expected. The rules of etiquette for gratuity in India are a little muddled as a colonial past, tourism, and cultural influences clash. We do recommend tipping at various instances, but tip higher only when you are very happy with the service. Tip can given after completion of the services from 5$, 10$ or more as per your choice and depending on how much satisfied & happy you are with the service provider.

With Alkof Holidays, you get 24X7 personal assistance from your dedicated tour manager over phone, WhatsApp, Skype, or Email.