Everyone is waiting for Holi 2024. This year, holy corresponds to March 25, 2024,In other words Monday. The day before the Holi festival, Holika Dahanalso known as Choti Holi. Sunday, March 25, 2024.
With Holi falling on a Monday this year, it's a perfect long weekend for travelers to immerse themselves in the heart of India's festivals, which blend ancient traditions with modern celebrations.
From traditional rituals at the Mathura and Vrindavan temples to royal processions in Rajasthan, Holi is celebrated in a variety of ways across India, capturing the essence of India's spiritual and cultural heritage. It is being
Here is a list of the best destinations to travel in India, celebrate the festival of colors and make the most of this long weekend.
1. Mathura and Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh
Holi 2024 long weekend trip: Mathura and Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh (Source: Freepik)
Mathura and Vrindavan, located in Uttar Pradesh, have great cultural and historical significance as the birthplace and childhood home of Lord Krishna.These cities are kIt is known for traditional Holi festivals such as Lathmar Holi and Pooron Wali Holi, where participants play with flowers and sticks.
Lathmar Holi includes a scene in which a woman playfully hits a man with a stick, symbolizing the playful teasing between Lord Krishna and the gopis and Puron Wali. Holi festival, on the other hand, is a festival where participants play with flowers and bright colors and scents fill the air. This is a gentle and peaceful way to commemorate the festival, reflecting the essence of purity and beauty associated with the divine drama of Lord Krishna.
2. Shantiniketan, West Bengal
Holi 2024 Long Weekend Trip Shantiniketan, West Bengal (Source Holidify)
In the small town of Shantiniketan in West Bengal, the Holi festival known as Basanta Utsav, inspired by Rabindranath Tagore, is celebrated with cultural performances, dance, songs and poetry, followed by the annual exchange of colors. It is done. The Basanta Utsav celebrations in Shantiniketan begin with a traditional early morning procession known as 'Prabhat Pheris' from the Visva Bharati University campus to the Kopai River.
Participants sing and dance to the melodious tunes of Ravindra Sangeet, followed by people dressed in colorful costumes, mostly yellow, taking part in cultural programs, dance and music both inside and outside the university campus. . The festival culminates in a joyful exchange of colored powders symbolizing the spirit of unity, joy and rebirth associated with Holi.
3. Udaipur and Jaipur, Rajasthan
Holi 2024 Long Weekend Trip Udaipur and Jaipur, Rajasthan (Source: Incredible Indian and Leisure India)
Holi in Udaipur is famous for its royal festivities held at the City Palace and other historic sites. The festival is accompanied by folk music and dance, making the experience at this majestic place truly royal. The day before Holi, which is celebrated as Holika Dahan, hundreds of pyres are lit across the city, especially the one in the largest Jagdish temple.
Similarly, the celebrations in Jaipur are equally grand, with beautifully painted and decorated elephants decked out in colors and taking part in processions celebrated as the Elephant Festival.
4. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Holi 2024 Long Weekend Trip Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (Source: khaberhindi.com)
In Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, the highly spiritual festival of Holi takes place along the Ganges ghats, lit up with rituals, bonfires and bright colors, along with the consumption of traditional music, dance and bhang.
The day before Holi, Choti Holi is celebrated It is marked by the lighting of a bonfire known as Holika Dahan, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. Participants gather around these bonfires to offer prayers and seek blessings of prosperity and happiness.
The unique thing about Holi in Varanasi is the drinking of bhang, a traditional drink made from cannabis leaves, which is believed to enhance the festive spirit and induce a feeling of euphoria.
5. Anandpur Sahib, Punjab
Holi 2024 Long Weekend Trip Anandpur Sahib, Punjab (Source Ministry of Tourism)
Anandpur Sahib in Punjab hosts Hola Mohalla, a festival that showcases Sikh culture through martial arts displays, mock battles by Nihans (Sikh warriors) on the banks of the Charan Ganga, and the usual bright colors. Observe Holi through. Additionally, devotees visit Takht Shri Keshgar Sahib during the three-day festival to seek the blessings of the Almighty.
6. Sangla, Himachal Pradesh
Holi long weekend 2024, Travsangra, Himachal Pradesh (Source: CurlyTales)
Sangla is the best place to celebrate Holi in the Himalayas. The festival here is celebrated with 'l'.Local residents and visitors participate together traditional dance and music and cultural activities.
The use of natural colors derived from flowers, herbs and plants adds an eco-friendly feel to the festival, in line with the Valley's commitment to sustainability and environmental protection.
Sangla's Holi festival stands out for its eco-friendly initiatives, making it a unique experience for those seeking a quieter, nature-centered festival experience.
7. Pushkar, Rajasthan
2024 Holi Weekend Trip to Pushkar, Rajasthan (Source Youtube)
Pushkar in Rajasthan is known for its sacred places and colorful markets. During Pushkar's Holi festival, the town transforms and takes on a laid-back, hippie vibe that sets it apart from other traditional celebrations. The festival features live music performances, cultural activities, and a vibrant atmosphere that resonates with the city's free spirit.
From camel races, a hallmark of Rajasthan's cultural heritage, to cultural performances showcasing traditional music and dance forms, Pushkar's Holi festival is a unique blend of cultural tradition, modern influences, and bohemian charm. It's a fusion.
8. Mumbai and Delhi
Holi 2024 Long Weekend Trip Delhi (Source India Tours)
In the metropolitan areas of Mumbai and Delhi, Holi is celebrated with huge parties featuring music, dance, and an explosion of color. Events like Delhi's HoliMoo Festival and Mumbai's vibrant celebrations create an urban feel, making these cities hotspots to experience the modern and vibrant side of festivals.
No matter where you celebrate, embracing local traditions, enjoying communal feasts, and participating in local rituals and dances will make Holi 2024 an unforgettable one.
