The Ultimate Guide to Experiencing Holi in India
Holi stands as one of India’s most colorful celebrations, bringing excitement and happiness to people. This festival of colors arrives in spring to celebrate the triumph of good over evil and unites people through vibrant colors, dance, and music. Below, you’ll find everything you need to know—from the best time to book flights to the top places to celebrate and essential travel preparations.
Best Time to Experience Holi in India
Holi occurs on the full moon day of Phalguna, which falls in March every year. The festival lasts for two days:
Holika Dahan (Chhoti Holi)
On the night before Holi, people create bonfires, known as Holika Dahan, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.
Rangwali Holi
The celebration peaks with Rangwali Holi, where people play with colors, dance, and take part in festivities.
To fully experience Holi, plan to arrive in India a few days before the festival. This allows you to witness pre-Holi preparations and immerse yourself in local traditions before the main celebrations begin.
Best Places to Celebrate Holi in India
Holi is celebrated across India, but certain destinations offer truly unique experiences:
Mathura & Vrindavan – The Land of Krishna
Lord Krishna’s cities, Mathura and Vrindavan, host some of India’s most spectacular Holi events. Barsana’s Lathmar Holi sees women playfully striking men with sticks, while Vrindavan’s Banke Bihari Temple celebrates for an entire week.
Jaipur – The Royal Holi
Jaipur blends royal traditions with festive grandeur. The City Palace hosts traditional music, elephant parades, and folk performances, turning the Pink City into a magical, colorful wonderland.
Delhi – A Modern Holi Experience
Delhi offers a mix of cultural and modern Holi celebrations. Popular Holi music festivals feature DJs, organic colors, and themed events, making it a great spot for contemporary Holi parties.
Shantiniketan – The Cultural Holi
West Bengal’s Basanta Utsav (Spring Festival), introduced by Rabindranath Tagore, features students in yellow outfits performing cultural programs, offering a refined and artistic Holi experience.
Hampi – South India’s Holi Celebration
While Holi is less commonly celebrated in South India, Hampi in Karnataka stands out for its vibrant celebrations. The historic setting adds a unique charm to the festivities.
Best Time to Book Flights to India for Holi
The best time to book flights for Holi is two to three months in advance. Since many international travelers visit India for Holi, flight prices surge closer to the festival.
For the cheapest flights from Canada to India:
✔ Book early – Lock in fares before demand peaks.
✔ Fly mid-week – Tuesdays and Wednesdays often have lower prices.
✔ Choose connecting flights – They are generally cheaper than direct routes.
✔ Set fare alerts – Stay updated on price drops.
Essential Tips for Celebrating Holi in India
✅ Wear Comfortable Clothes
Expect to be covered in colors! White outfits highlight the vibrancy, but lightweight, comfortable clothing is ideal.
✅ Use Organic Colors
Opt for natural, herbal-based colors over chemical dyes to protect your skin and the environment.
✅ Protect Your Skin & Hair
Apply coconut oil or moisturizer to prevent colors from sticking. Sunglasses can help protect your eyes.
✅ Stay Hydrated & Enjoy Traditional Treats
Keep drinking water to stay energized. Try Holi specialties like gujiya, malpua, and the festive drink thandai.
✅ Be Mindful & Respectful
Always celebrate in safe, organized spaces. If traveling alone, consider guesthouse Holi events or cultural gatherings.
✅ Capture the Memories
Use a waterproof case for your phone or camera to protect against water splashes and color powders.
✅ Arrange Transportation in Advance
Public transport may be limited on Holi, so book reliable transport in advance.
Post-Holi Travel Ideas
After Holi, explore more of India:
🏰 Rajasthan – Visit Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jaisalmer for royal heritage.
🌊 Kerala – Relax in backwaters and enjoy Ayurvedic spa treatments.
🏝 Goa – Unwind on the beaches after the lively Holi celebrations.
🕉 Varanasi – Witness spiritual rituals along the Ganges River.
Flights are often cheaper after Holi, so look for return ticket deals during this period.
How Surffares Can Help You Plan Your Trip to India for Holi
Surffares makes booking flights to India for Holi easy and affordable. Whether you’re looking for cheap flights from Canada to India or the best flight deals, we ensure competitive prices and hassle-free booking.
With Surffares, you can:
✅ Find discounted direct flights from Canada to India.
✅ Secure early bookings for the best Holi travel deals.
✅ Access flights to Mathura, Jaipur, Delhi, and other Holi hotspots.
Don’t miss the vibrant experience of Holi in India—book your flights with Surffares today!
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