Vrindavan, Mathura, Varanasi, Goa, Kolkata And Mumbai India Welcome Travelers For An Exhilarating Holi 2025 With Iconic Festivities And Unmatched Energy

Published on March 13, 2025

Vrindavan,Mathura, Varanasi, Goa, Kolkata and Mumbai India come alive for Holi 2025 with vibrant traditions spiritual celebrations and electrifying festivities.

Skyscanner’s Travel Trends 2025 report highlights that 91% of Indian travelers view vacations as essential for relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether embracing the vibrant traditions of Holi or opting for a serene getaway, the following destinations promise unforgettable experiences.

Vrindavan & Mathura, Uttar Pradesh
For an immersive and culturally rich Holi celebration, Vrindavan and Mathura are unparalleled. These historic twin cities host multi-day festivities, including Barsana’s famous ‘Lathmar Holi,’ where women playfully chase men with sticks, and the ‘Phoolon wali Holi’ at Banke Bihari Temple, where flower petals replace colored powders.

The growing interest in these celebrations is evident in travel trends, with Skyscanner reporting a 353% spike in searches for flights to Agra, the nearest airport, on March 12 compared to February 12. Additionally, flight searches for March 11 have surged by 417%, showcasing rising enthusiasm for Holi in this region.

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi, India’s spiritual capital, offers a deeply meaningful Holi experience. Ranking as the second-most searched destination for travel between March 12-18, the city’s appeal continues to grow. Travelers are encouraged to arrive the night before or early on the morning of Holi to witness the sunrise over the Ganges and take part in the festivities at Dashashwamedh Ghat and Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

A highlight of Holi in Varanasi is the evening Ganga Aarti, where the riverbanks glow with the light of ceremonial lamps, creating a spiritual conclusion to the celebrations.

Goa, India
Goa remains a top choice for a festive long weekend, ranking as the fourth-most searched destination during Holi. Here, visitors can enjoy beachside Holi parties or explore quieter cultural celebrations at temples in Ponda and Vasco. Extending the trip may also allow travelers to experience the Shigmo parade, a spectacular showcase of Goan traditions, folk performances, and processions.

Kolkata, West Bengal
In Kolkata, Holi takes on an artistic and cultural form with Dol Jatra, a celebration of music, dance, and vibrant colors. Shantiniketan’s Basanta Utsav, influenced by Rabindranath Tagore’s vision, adds a distinctive touch to the festival, where participants don yellow attire to welcome spring. Within Kolkata itself, College Street and Park Street host colorful events, complemented by traditional treats such as malpua and thandai.

Mumbai, Maharashtra
Mumbai’s Holi festivities are grand and energetic, featuring Bollywood-themed parties, lively beach gatherings at Juhu and Chowpatty, and high-energy music festivals. This year, international DJ Martin Garrix is set to perform at DY Patil Stadium, adding to the city’s electric atmosphere. With its mix of traditional and modern celebrations, Mumbai offers a diverse Holi experience.

Smart Travel Planning for Holi
For those making last-minute travel plans, Skyscanner’s Price Alerts and DROPS feature help secure the best flight deals. This app-exclusive tool tracks airfare fluctuations and identifies destinations with significant discounts, making travel more affordable.

Whether immersing in centuries-old traditions or exploring new destinations, Holi presents the perfect opportunity for travel and cultural enrichment. This festival of colors invites both celebration and reflection, and these destinations provide experiences that capture its true essence.