Last verified November 2026. Holi follows the lunar calendar and dates can differ by region, so check locally before you book. Read how we check facts in our editorial policy.
When is Holi 2027?
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Holika Dahan (bonfires, evening) | Sunday 21 March 2027 |
| Holi (colours, mainly morning) | Monday 22 March 2027 |
In Mathura, Vrindavan and Barsana, events start about a week earlier. For other festivals, see our India festival calendar.
Best places to celebrate Holi
- Mathura and Vrindavan: the most famous and most intense celebrations, linked to Krishna. Expect huge crowds.
- Barsana and Nandgaon: known for Lathmar Holi in the days before the main festival.
- Jaipur and Udaipur: easier for first-timers, with organised events and a royal Holika Dahan ceremony in Udaipur.
- Pushkar: popular with younger travellers, with a big street party.
- Delhi: ticketed Holi parties with music are a controlled way to take part.
- Shantiniketan, West Bengal: a gentler, cultural version called Basanta Utsav.
- South India: Holi is much quieter there.
Tips for tourists
- Play in the morning. Celebrations wind down by early afternoon, and streets can get rowdy later.
- Join an organised event or your hotel’s celebration if it is your first Holi, and go with a group.
- Wear old clothes you can throw away. Oil your skin and hair first so the colour washes out.
- Protect your eyes with sunglasses and your phone and camera with a waterproof pouch.
- Be careful with bhang, a cannabis drink sold during Holi, and with alcohol.
- Women may face groping in crowds. Organised events are safer. See solo female travel in India.
- Expect shops, monuments and transport to run limited hours on the main day.
Planning your trip around Holi
Late March is warm and dry in north India, and hotels in Mathura, Vrindavan, Jaipur, Udaipur and Pushkar fill early, so book ahead. Trains sell out too. See the train booking date calculator, the best time to visit India and our 10-day itinerary, which fits well around Holi in Jaipur or Udaipur.
Frequently asked questions
What date is Holi in 2027?
In most of north India, Holika Dahan is on Sunday 21 March 2027 and the main day of colours is on Monday 22 March 2027. Dates can vary by a day between regions and calendars.
Where is the best place to celebrate Holi in India?
Mathura and Vrindavan are the most famous. Jaipur, Udaipur and Pushkar are easier for first-time visitors.
Is Holi safe for tourists?
Yes, with care. Celebrate in the morning, go with a group or to an organised event, protect your eyes and avoid bhang and heavy drinking.