Holi Celebrations In Mathura: Braj Ki Holi 2026

Holi holds a special place in the hearts of the residents of Mathura. Every year, the town bursts into life with colors, hues, and all the festive energy you can fathom. If you see gujiya, thandai, gulaal, and water balloons, you know that Mathura is gearing up for Holi. The celebrations in 2026 will be no different, as the town showcases its beloved festival. Residents enthusiastically participate in traditional performances and folk dances, celebrating with vibrant colors and heartfelt joy.

Read our article below to discover what Holi celebrations in Mathura are like and learn how you can make your own celebrations just as enjoyable and meaningful.

When is Holi 2026?

Holi will be celebrated on March 4th. The celebrations begin a day earlier on March 3rd with Holika Dahan, known as Chhoti Holi. On this evening, people gather around bonfires to perform rituals celebrating the victory of good over evil, when we remember the legends of Prahlad and Holika.  The next day is Dhulandi, the main Holi celebration. People come together to play with colors, enjoy festive music, and share sweets like gujiya and thandai.

What is special about Holi in Mathura?

Mathura Holi is undoubtedly a once-in-a-lifetime experience for devotees. Krishna and Radha’s love story began in Mathura and evolved from there. According to legend, Krishna envied her fairness and frequently complained to his mother about his dusky complexion. He used to toss colours at Radha and paint her face to balance the skin tones. Just like any other Radha-Krishna Leela, it became a tradition, and it has only grown to be a more vibrant and chaotic Holi. Additionally, Holi celebrations in Mathura begin a week in advance and continue till the last day of the festivities. Hence, it is also known as the best place to visit in India once in a lifetime during Holi.

Braj Holi 2026 Schedule

Braj, which includes towns like Vrindavan, Barsana, Nandgaon, and Mathura, celebrates Holi with a range of unique and colorful events that last for several weeks. Here is the detailed schedule for the 2026 festivities:

Holi Celebration in Mathura – Braj Ki Holi

Mathura attracts thousands of tourists worldwide to witness the grandeur of Holi celebrations. Braj ki Holi isn’t just the most fun festival, but also offers an experience of a lifetime. A festival that celebrates love, unity, and the triumph of good over evil and paints the world with happy colours, Holi is everyone’s favourite. But Braj ki Holi is a little different than your regular Holi.

Lathmar Holi in Barsana and Nandgaon

Legend has it that the eternal love story of Radha and Krishna started in Braj. Krishna and his friends travelled from Nandgaon to Barsana, Radha’s village, to paint her and her girl gang with colours because Radha was fair and Krishna was dusky. Radha, along with the girls, chased Krishna and his gang with sticks.

Since Krishna and Radha couldn’t marry, the guys and girls of Nandgaon and Barsana don’t marry each other. The relationship between the two villages is limited to a playful Holi celebration and healthy flirting only.

How to reach Barsana and Nandgaon?

To reach Barsana and Nandgaon, you have a few options:

• By Air: The nearest airport to Barsana is in Agra, about 100 km away. From there, you can book a taxi to Barsana. Alternatively, you can fly to Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, which is around 150 km from Barsana, and then take a taxi. Look for exclusive flight deals from GrabOn before you book your tickets so you can cut down your costs.

• By Train: The closest major railway station is in Mathura, about 45 km from Barsana. Mathura Railway Station is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Agra, Lucknow, and Mumbai. From Mathura, you can hire a taxi to reach Barsana and Nandgaon. Use train ticket coupons when booking to reduce your travel expenses and save more.

• By Road: Barsana and Nandgaon are well-connected by road. You can take a bus or drive from nearby cities like Delhi, Agra, and Mathura. The Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation runs several buses connecting these towns to major cities. If you plan to hire a car or a taxi, don’t forget to explore cab offers and discounts to get lower prices.

When is Lathmar Holi celebrated?

Lathmar Holi will be celebrated on February 25, 2026, in Barsana and on February 26, 2026, in Nandgaon. It is a unique tradition where women playfully hit men with sticks while men try to shield themselves. This event reenacts the playful interactions of Radha and Krishna and takes place a few days before the main Holi festival. If you plan to visit Lathmar for Holi this year, plan well and check out GrabOn for travel discount codes.

Phoolon ki Holi in Vrindavan

A beautiful event that takes place inside the temple premises, Vrindavan’s Phoolon ki Holi is extremely famous in India and abroad. Played on the Ekadashi before Holi, people ditch colours and water to play Holi with flowers. The priests at Banke Bihari temple in Vrindavan throw flowers at people as soon as the temple gates are opened. Be there to witness this beautiful event that takes place only for 15-20 minutes each year.

How to reach Vrindavan?

To reach Vrindavan, you have several options:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Kheria Airport in Agra, about 55 km away. From there, you can take a taxi to Vrindavan. Alternatively, you can fly to Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, which is around 130 km from Vrindavan, and then take a taxi or bus.

• By Train: The closest major railway station is in Mathura, about 10 km from Vrindavan. Mathura Railway Station is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Agra, Lucknow, and Mumbai. From Mathura, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Vrindavan.

• By Road: Vrindavan is well-connected by road. You can take a bus or drive from nearby cities like Delhi, Agra, and Mathura. The Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation runs several buses connecting these towns to Vrindavan.

If you plan to travel by air, there are great domestic flight offers that you could use when booking your flight. If you’re nearby and commuting by road is more feasible, then have a look at bus coupon codes and then book your bus tickets.

Chhadi Mar Holi 

Mar Holi typically occurs in the month of Phalgun, as per the Hindu calendar, which usually falls in February or March. In Chhadi Mar Holi, women playfully chase men to smear them with colourful powders, creating a lively and joyous atmosphere filled with music, dance, and laughter.

Unlike the more intense Lathmar Holi, where women playfully hit men with sticks, Chhadi Mar Holi emphasizes the gentle application of colours, fostering a sense of inclusivity among participants. Witnessing and participating in Chhadi Mar Holi offers a unique cultural experience, allowing one to immerse oneself in the joyous atmosphere and vibrant colours of this traditional festival.

Where is Chhadi Mar Holi Celebrated?

Chhadi Mar Holi is celebrated primarily in the town of Gokul, Uttar Pradesh, India.

Widow’s Holi in Vrindavan

Sure, you haven’t heard about this one, ever. We are all aware of the cruel traditions that widows in India have to adopt. The widowed women aren’t allowed to play with colours or even wear anything colourful. A lot of times, they were also sent to widow houses in Vrindavan and Varanasi, shed worldly dreams, and embrace spirituality. But recently, the widows of Pagal Baba Vidhwa Ashram in Vrindavan broke all norms and splashed colours on each other on Holi. Since then, the Vidhwa Ashram widows have been playing Holi every year to add some happiness to their otherwise regular lives.

Do not forget to stop by and celebrate the festival with these beautiful souls. Spreading love and happiness only increases it multiple times.

When is Widow’s Holi celebrated in 2026?

Widow’s Holi in 2026 will be celebrated on March 2nd. This special celebration takes place in Vrindavan, where widows come together to play with colors and celebrate Holi, breaking traditional taboos and spreading joy.

Where do widows celebrate Holi in Vrindavan?

Widows celebrate Holi at the Pagal Baba Widow Ashram in Vrindavan.

Holi at Banke Bihari

Head to Banke Bihari Temple just a day before Holi. A largely male gathering is present, and the priest spills colours and holy water on the crowd. During this celebration, people enjoy the festival of colours by chanting the praises of Krishna in unison. This is one of the most surreal experiences to witness when people sing, dance, and gather with the Lord at the festival of love.

The celebration here mostly ends by 1 PM. After that, head straight to Mathura to be a part of the Holi procession. Trust me, you’ll enjoy every bit of it. Vehicles decorated with flowers, people splashing colours on each other, and people dancing on the roads. It’s a moment to live. The procession then gathers to burn an effigy and celebrate Holika Dahan.

How to reach Mathura?

To reach Mathura, you have several options:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Kheria Airport in Agra, about 60 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to Mathura. Alternatively, you can fly to Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, which is around 150 km from Mathura, and then take a taxi or a bus.

• By Train: Mathura Junction is a major railway station and is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Agra, Lucknow, and Mumbai. You can take a train directly to Mathura from any of these cities.

• By Road: Mathura is well-connected by road. You can take a bus or drive from nearby cities like Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. The Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation runs several buses connecting Mathura to major cities.

Before you buy your tickets to Mathura, make sure to check out Holi deals and offers from GrabOn. This way, you can save more on your travel expenses.

Holi at Dwarkadhish

The biggest Holi festivities are witnessed at Dwarkadhish Temple in Mathura. Early in the morning, the priests make Bhang, and by 10 AM, the celebration starts. You will find the road outside the temple jammed with people, laughing, celebrating, and splashing colours on each other. Inside the temple premises, women play Holi in full swing.

Do not refrain from moving your body with people dancing to the tunes of the dhol played by the priests. But do not encourage rowdy behaviour just because of “Bura na mano, Holi hai”. Be safe and be aware of people who tend to get a little rowdy.

When is Holi celebrated in Dwarkadhish?

Holi in Dwarkadhish will be celebrated on March 4th, 2026. The festivities will begin with Holika Dahan on the evening of March 3rd, 2026.

Huranga Holi

Dauji Temple, located about 30 km from Mathura, is the last stop for the celebrations. This unusual Holi celebration will leave you surprised. The day after Holi, men and women gather to end the festivities with dance and music. First, they sing traditional songs, seeking permission from the Lord to end the celebration. Later, the women of the village tear the men’s clothes and beat them with their clothes. With this, the people of Balgaon declare the festival over.

Where is the Dauji Temple?

The Dauji Temple, also known as Shri Dauji Maharaj Mandir, is located in Baldeo, a town about 21 kilometers southeast of Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. This temple is dedicated to Lord Balarama, the elder brother of Lord Krishna, and is a significant pilgrimage site in the Braj region.

How to reach Baldeo?

To reach Baldeo, you have a few options:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Kheria Airport in Agra, about 60 km away. From there, you can take a taxi to Baldeo. Alternatively, you can fly to Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, which is around 150 km from Baldeo, and then take a taxi or bus.

• By Train: The closest major railway station is in Mathura, about 21 km from Baldeo. Mathura Railway Station is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Agra, Lucknow, and Mumbai. From Mathura, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Baldeo.

• By Road: Baldeo is well-connected by road. You can take a bus or drive from nearby cities like Delhi, Agra, and Mathura. The Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation runs several buses connecting these towns to Baldeo.

Holika Dahan

The Holika Dahan festival is celebrated by burning Holika (demoness). Hindus also believe that Holi is celebrated with the victory of good over evil. During the festival, people gather wood for the bonfire. In the evening, stay at Holi Gate to witness Holi Ka Dahan and enjoy the cultural activities.

Having mentioned the major details, you are all set to visit Mathura this Holi. Pack your bags with bright clothes and charge your camera’s battery because it’s going to be a great experience. But while you are in Mathura, stay safe during this highly energetic festival. Here’s a guide on how to play Holi in a safe way.

Wrapping Up

As Holi comes to an end, Mathura leaves behind more than just memories; it leaves a feeling of joy and tradition. If you’re planning to join, here are a few tips: Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty, use oil or moisturizer to protect your skin, and keep your valuables safe. Most importantly, enjoy the festival, dance, play, and celebrate with an open heart. Whether you’re watching the processions in Mathura, getting covered in colors in Vrindavan, or seeing the unique traditions of Barsana and Nandgaon, Holi here is an experience you’ll never forget.

FAQs

Is it good to visit Mathura during Holi?

Yes, visiting Mathura during Holi is a great experience as it is celebrated with grand processions, temple rituals, and vibrant color play. However, it can be very crowded, so be prepared for the rush.

How many days is Holi celebrated in Mathura?

Holi celebrations in Mathura last for about 10 to 15 days, starting with Lathmar Holi in Barsana and Nandgaon and ending with Rang Panchami. The main celebrations take place a few days before the actual Holi date.

Is there any Mathura Holi package?

Yes, many travel platforms offer Holi tour packages for Mathura and Vrindavan, including guided tours, accommodation, and festival experiences. To save more, check Make My Trip deals from GrabOn on exclusive Mathura packages.

Is Holi celebrated for 40 days in Vrindavan?

Yes, 40 days in Vrindavan are dedicated to Holi celebrations, starting well before the main festival. The Banke Bihari Temple hosts unique events like Phoolon ki Holi, and the city remains immersed in colors, music, and devotional festivities throughout this period.