Holi, the festival of colours, is one of the most vibrant celebrations in India. That is why, you should explore these Offbeat destinations to celebrate Holi.
While the streets of Mathura and Vrindavan are undoubtedly iconic for their grand Holi celebrations, there are plenty of offbeat destinations where you can enjoy this lively festival without the crowds.
If you’re looking for a unique and more peaceful Holi experience, pack your bags and head to these hidden gems for a colourful celebration.
Celebrate the Colours of Holi in Offbeat Destinations
1. Shahpura, Rajasthan
Tucked away in Rajasthan, Shahpura is a small town known for its royal heritage. Every year, the locals celebrate Holi with a mix of traditional Rajasthani flair and exuberant colours. Unlike the major cities, here you can experience a more intimate and authentic celebration, where the entire community gets involved.
Expect less chaos, more interaction with the locals and the chance to play Holi in the shadow of beautiful forts and palaces. The warm Rajasthani hospitality adds an extra touch to the vibrant festivities.
2. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Rishikesh, known for its serene atmosphere and spiritual vibe, offers a unique experience of Holi. Set along the holy Ganges River, the celebrations here are deeply spiritual yet colourful.
Instead of the typical street parties, you’ll find quieter, more reflective moments, from playing with colours in temples to watching the Ganga Aarti amidst the festive spirit. Whether you’re a yogi or just seeking peace, Rishikesh combines spirituality with the fun of Holi in the most harmonious way.
3. Hampi, Karnataka
Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Karnataka, is known for its ancient temples and fascinating ruins. Celebrate Holi in a place where history meets colour. The vibrant festival here takes on a different flavour, with the ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire as your backdrop.
Enjoy the festivities with locals and travellers alike, with live music, dancing and of course, the famous coloured powders. The laid-back atmosphere here allows you to absorb the cultural richness of the region while enjoying the joyful spirit of Holi.
4. Barsana, Uttar Pradesh
While Barsana is more famous for its Lathmar Holi, where women playfully hit men with sticks, it remains an offbeat choice compared to mainstream destinations like Mathura. The village is the heart of the Radha-Krishna folklore and Holi here is celebrated in a truly distinctive manner.
If you’re up for a fun twist on the traditional, join in the playful chaos of Lathmar Holi, where the energy is contagious, and the celebration is filled with laughter, music and of course, vibrant colors. It’s one of those places where the festival is as much about tradition as it is about the joy of letting loose.
5. Kangra, Himachal Pradesh
Kangra, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, offers a quieter and more peaceful setting for Holi. The backdrop of misty mountains and green valleys adds to the charm of the festival. Here, you can enjoy the local rituals and celebrations, with the community coming together to mark the occasion.
The vibe is tranquil, with small groups of people playing Holi in the countryside, often accompanied by traditional Himachali music. If you’re a nature lover who wants to experience Holi in a less commercialized setting, Kangra is the perfect escape.
6. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Tawang, located in the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh, is one of the most remote yet stunning places to celebrate Holi. The Monpa community here celebrates Holi with unique customs that blend Buddhist traditions and the festival of colours. The high-altitude town offers a peaceful and picturesque setting, with snow-capped mountains as your backdrop.
The celebration here is more subdued and intimate, with locals using natural colours and celebrating traditionally. If you want to explore Holi in an entirely new cultural context, Tawang is the place to be.
7. Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
Though Holi is predominantly a North Indian festival, Mahabalipuram offers a unique twist in the South. Known for its ancient rock-cut temples and stunning coastline, Mahabalipuram celebrates Holi in its own way.
The festivities here tend to be more low-key compared to the northern parts of India, but there’s still plenty of colour and joy in the air. With the Bay of Bengal as your backdrop, you can play with colours on the beach and even take a dip in the sea, making it an unforgettable Holi celebration by the coast.
8. Gokarna, Karnataka
If you’re looking for a beach destination to celebrate Holi, Gokarna is a perfect blend of beauty, tranquillity and festivity. While the major beaches in Goa may attract large crowds, Gokarna offers a more peaceful alternative, with its serene beaches and laid-back vibe.
Celebrate Holi by the sea, with the sound of the waves in the background and the cool breeze making everything feel just right. Locals and travellers gather to enjoy music, dance and the festival of colours in an environment that’s far from the chaos of mainstream beach parties.
9. Coorg, Karnataka
Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a lush, green hill station in Karnataka that offers a refreshing twist to Holi celebrations. Known for its coffee plantations, misty hills, and beautiful landscapes, Coorg provides a peaceful and scenic setting for the festival of colours.
While Holi isn’t as widely celebrated here as in the northern states, the local Kodava community embraces the spirit with a unique blend of traditional rituals and fun. You can enjoy playing with natural colours amidst the coffee estates, go for treks and end your day with a cosy bonfire.
10. Mawlynnong, Meghalaya
Mawlynnong, a beautiful village in Meghalaya, is known for its cleanliness and pristine surroundings and it offers a truly offbeat Holi experience. The village celebrates the festival with a unique blend of nature and culture.
You can play with colours while being surrounded by the lush landscapes of the Khasi Hills and the famous Living Root Bridges. The local community hosts small, community-driven celebrations where Holi is enjoyed with organic colours and traditional dances.
Why celebrate Holi in these Offbeat destinations?
The charm of celebrating Holi in offbeat destinations lies in the chance to experience the festival in a more authentic, relaxed and personal way.
Whether you’re in the Himalayas, by the sea or surrounded by ancient ruins, these destinations offer a refreshing departure from the usual madness. You get to interact with locals, enjoy the colours in a more intimate setting, and embrace the true spirit of the festival without overwhelming crowds.
Conclusion
These lesser-known places allow you to connect more deeply with local traditions, enjoy unique celebrations and create unforgettable memories.
Whether you’re dancing amidst ancient ruins in Hampi, soaking in the spiritual vibe of Rishikesh, or enjoying the serene beaches of Gokarna, these hidden gems provide a chance to embrace the true essence of Holi without the chaos of overcrowded tourist hotspots.
So, if you’re looking for something different this Holi, consider one of these offbeat destinations for a celebration that’s as colourful as it is unique.
FAQs =》
Q1. Are the Holi celebrations in offbeat destinations quieter compared to major cities?
Ans. Yes, Holi celebrations in offbeat destinations are typically more subdued and peaceful. While there’s still plenty of colour, music and dancing, the festivities are often less chaotic, offering a more reflective and enjoyable experience.
Q2. Are offbeat destinations safe for solo travellers during Holi?
Ans. Generally, offbeat destinations can be safe for solo travellers, especially if you follow local customs and respect the culture. Always check local travel advisories and ensure your accommodations are well-reviewed.
Q3. What unique experiences can I expect in offbeat destinations for Holi?
Ans. You can expect personalized experiences such as small local processions, traditional rituals, less commercialized celebrations and deeper cultural immersion.
Q4. Are there any Holi-related cultural experiences apart from playing with colours in offbeat destinations?
Ans. Yes, many offbeat destinations have unique cultural aspects to their Holi celebrations. You may find special folk performances, temple visits, regional dances and local culinary delicacies tied to the festival. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local lifestyle and traditions.
Q5. How do I get to offbeat Holi destinations?
Ans. Offbeat destinations may require more transportation planning. You may need to take trains, and buses or hire private transportation to reach remote areas. Many of these places are connected by good roads or trains from major cities.
