Holi in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand (March 4, 2026), offers a unique blend of vibrant celebrations, including beachside camps with bonfires, music, and traditional gulal. Major activities here include playing colors near the Ganges, attending Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan, and enjoying poolside parties, typically starting in the morning around 9 AM.
Some of the best Holi party packages in Rishikesh range from ₹1,000 to ₹3,000 per person for basic camping and bonfires. Comprehensive 2-night packages, including rafting, music, and meals, cost between ₹8,000 and ₹12,000+. Prices vary based on accommodation type and included activities.
Key Highlights of Holi in Rishikesh
Here is all you need to know about the festival of Holi in Rishikesh:
- Date for Holi 2026: March 04, 2026
- Riverside & Camp Parties: Many camps near the forest host special holi parties that include DJs, food, and bonfires
- Traditional Celebrations: The main event involves tourists using water guns and powders to celebrate and playing with gulal (colors) in the street
- Spiritual Atmosphere: Tourists often visit the Parmarth Niketan Ashram for a scenic celebration and attend the evening Ganga Aarti & Janki Setu light show
- Adventure & Festivities: Combining the festival with activities like surfing, whitewater rafting, cliff jumping
- Popular Locations To Celebrate Holi in Rishikesh: Lakshman Jhula, Ram Jhula, Triveni Ghat, Rishikesh Resorts & Camps (Camp Riverside & Himalayan Hideaway), Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia)
- Tips for Tourists: Highly advised to wear white clothes to make the colors appear bright, book accommodations nearby, stay away from crowded places, and take care of your valuables.
Best Place to Celebrate Holi in Rishikesh
1. Ganga Ghat Holi Rituals & Riverside Colors
It feels incomplete joining the sacred Holi in Rishikesh without the Ganga Ghat celebration, where travelers and locals come together for devotional songs, organic colors, and peaceful rituals. Ganga ghat holi in Rishikesh blends vibrant cultural moments and spirituality, making it perfect for visitors who want fewer crowds and traditional vibes. Expect sunrise aartis followed by mindful celebrations that reflect authentic local culture.
- Where: Triveni Ghat & Parmarth Niketan Ghat
- When: Main Holi Day – March 04, 2026
- Timings: 7:00 AM–12:00 PM
- Crowd Level: High but respectful
- Best Vantage Points: Steps near the aarti platform
- Who It’s For: Spiritual travelers, photographers, families
2. Adventure Camp DJ Bash—Shivpuri Riverside Holi
Adventure lovers seeking an energetic celebration should explore riverside camps hosting Holi parties in Rishikesh 2026 experiences with bonfires, music, and rafting combos.
A popular highlight is the Holi party in Shivpuri Rishikesh, known for lively DJ sessions and scenic mountain views. The version of Holi attracts backpackers who need a mix of outdoor adventure and celebration. These camps are amongst the best for young travelers seeking high-energy gatherings at the Holi festival in Rishikesh 2026.
- Where: Shivpuri Adventure Camps
- When: Main Holi Day – March 04, 2026
- Timings: 11:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Crowd Level: Medium to High
- Best Vantage Points: Riverside lawns & bonfire areas
- Who It’s For: Youth, groups, adventure seekers
3. Rishikesh Holi Fest—Music, Yoga, & Cultural Nights
This famous Rishikesh Holi Fest combines yoga workshops, live bands, and dance events that transform into a balanced celebration. Travelers choose this event for its safe social atmosphere and organized environment. Visitors unsure where to celebrate Holi usually begin here because it offers structured activities rather than random street crowds.
- Where: Yoga Retreats & Cultural Venues near Tapovan
- When: Main Holi Day – March 04, 2026
- Timings: Afternoon Workshops & Evening Concerts
- Crowd Level: Moderate
- Best Vantage Points: Open lawns & stage areas
- Who It’s For: Solo travelers, wellness enthusiasts, culture lovers
4. Hostel & Cafe Color Carnival—Backpacker Holi Parties
Hostels around Laxman Jhula will organize social Holi parties in Rishikesh in 2026 featuring organic colors, rooftop dance floors, and DJs. These social meetups define the modern celebration, attracting both domestic and international travelers looking for community vibes. Many tourists attending the Holi party in Rishikesh prefer these venues for their safety and curated music vibes.
- Where: Laxman Jhula & Tapovan Hostels
- When: March 03-04, 2026
- Timings: 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
- Crowd Level: High
- Best Vantage Points: Rooftop cafés & open terraces
- Who It’s For: Backpackers, solo travelers, social explorers
5. Street Holi & Local Market Celebrations
The raw energy of Holi in Rishikesh comes alive in local markets where dance, music, and spontaneous color play create a vibrant street festival. From Tapovan cafes to Ram Jhula lanes, this side of Holi reflects everyday local culture. Travelers often track social updates like Holi in Rishikesh today to learn about pop-up gatherings and live performances during the Holi Festival Rishikesh 2026.
The streets near Triveni Ghat also conduct a lively Holi in Rishikesh Ganga Ghat, mixing tradition and community fun. Be careful of the weather during Holi in Rishikesh, as warm afternoons can make crowded streets intense. This authentic street vibe is usually highlighted among top Holi events in Rishikesh 2026.
- Where: Ram Jhula, Tapovan Markets, Local Streets
- When: Main Holi Day – March 04, 2026
- Timings: 9:00 AM–3:00 PM
- Crowd Level: Very High
- Best Vantage Points: Café balconies & open market squares
- Who It’s For: Festival lovers, photographers, cultural explorers
Best Holi Events in Rishikesh 2026
1. Rangrez 2026 Rishikesh Holi Music Festival
Rangrez 2026 is an intense celebration combining folk music, live DJs, and vibrant color throws. This modern Holi celebration caters to music enthusiasts looking for curated festival vibes alongside traditional rituals.
Attendees of Holi in Rishikesh 2026 describe Rangrez as one of the most exciting events, offering a safe yet electrifying way to experience the festival. It's a must-visit for travelers who want Holi in Rishikesh party spots with structured entertainment, eco-friendly colors, and immersive soundscapes.
- Where: Riverside Festival Grounds, Tapovan
- When: Main Holi Day – March 04, 2026
- Timings: 11:00 AM–6:00 PM
- Crowd Level: High
- Best Vantage Points: Main stage area & riverside lawns
- Who It’s For: Music lovers, backpackers, festival enthusiasts
2. Holi Celebration Rangrave by Antrix 4.0
The Holi celebration Rangrave by Antrix 4.0 is a modern spin on Holi in Rishikesh, a combination of dance performances, EDM beats, and choreographed color throws. Adventure travelers and young people seeking a lively and visually stunning Holi experience at party spots in Rishikesh are the target audience for this event.
Unlike traditional rituals, Rangrave emphasizes high-energy entertainment while still honoring cultural elements of Holi. Many visitors are considering it amongst the standout Holi events in Rishikesh 2026 for group participation and photography.
- Where: Riverside Open Grounds, Shivpuri
- When:Main Holi Day – March 04, 2026
- Timings: 12:00 PM–7:00 PM
- Crowd Level: Very High
- Best Vantage Points: Central stage & terrace view areas
- Who It’s For: Youth, music festival fans, adventure travelers
Suggested Read: Kumaoni Holi Festival 2026
Essential Tips for Holi in Rishikesh
Among the best places to celebrate Holi in India, Rishikesh’s celebrations are the most unforgettable ones; however, for a fun experience, it is essential to follow the travel tips given below:
- Accommodation & Transport: Book hotels and camps in advance for a long weekend, as demand is high. Choose locations in Shivpuri for a more fun party atmosphere
- Stay Safe & Respectful: While the main celebrations are joyful, avoid roaming in crowded public areas and dress appropriately at time of rituals
- Best Way to Celebrate: Participate in organised Holi parties at resorts & camps, which include organic colors, DJ music, rain dances, and bonfire nights
- Protection Tips: Use herbal/eco-friendly colors, apply moisturizer or coconut oil to prevent your hair and skin from color stains, and wear sunglasses
- Key Activities: Combine festivities with rafting, visit the Beatles Ashram, and trek to waterfalls
- Clothing: Wear old white clothes that you don't mind ruining and that show the colors brightly.
- Take Care of your Belongings: Use waterproof covers for phones and cameras, do not carry expensive watches and jewellery, and avoid carrying cash; use UPI
Final Thoughts—Why Celebrate Holi in Rishikesh?
Holi in Rishikesh is beyond a festival; its a complete blend of music, adventure, spirituality, and riverside events into one unforgettable celebration. Travelers across India and abroad come here to witness energetic streets, temples covered in color, and peaceful Ganga aartis that give Holi in Rishikesh its unique character.
Whether you are seeking lively gatherings or calm spiritual moments, Rishikesh offers a perfect balance that other destinations cannot match. Be it backpackers, couples, or solo explorers, you will find something special here, making it among the top destinations for a seasonal getaway. With curated travel experiences by WanderOn, visitors can explore yoga retreats, hidden cafes, and adventure camps while staying safe and organised during the festivities.
