“Bura na maano, Holi hai..” a line that starts ringing in every head as soon as the festival of colours is around the corner. Holi in Rajasthan is a vibrant celebration of colours, culture and royalty, offering experiences that are hard to find anywhere else. With palaces, forts and streets bursting with clouds of gulal, echoes of laughter, and amazing views of cultural performances, the best Holi in Rajasthan is no less than a dream for travelers.
With our Rajasthan tour packages, enjoy the best Holi in Rajasthan to have an experience like none other. This blog will take you through all you need to know about Holi in Rajasthan 2026.
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Holi In Rajasthan: A Fusion of Colours and Cultures
Known as the “Festival of colours,” Holi is one of the most awaited and famous festivals in India, highlighting the country’s rich cultural heritage. Holi celebration in Rajasthan is done in such a way that you will never forget it, leaving you with stories to tell for the rest of your life. Cities like Udaipur, Jaipur, Pushkar and Jodhpur come alive with vibrant traditions and cultural experiences.
From Royal Holi in Jaipur to Phoolon ki Holi in Pushkar, the state transforms into a display of traditions, joy and heritage. Whether you are looking to celebrate Rajasthani Holi against the backdrop of majestic palaces or savour some lip-smacking delicacies, the places to celebrate Holi in Rajasthan will surely leave you with unmatched memories.
Holi celebration in Rajasthan is all about welcoming strangers with colours and celebrations of culture, making it a unique experience for every traveller.
Reasons To Celebrate Holi In Rajasthan
1. Royal And Grand Celebrations
Rajasthan is known for its royalty and grandeur, which makes it a perfect destination for a holi celebration. Holi in Rajasthan will let you have a taste of the state’s royal touch, where celebrations often take place in palace courtyards and iconic landmarks.
You can enjoy the Holi festival in Jaipur, Udaipur or Jaisalmer, where cultural performances, parades and traditional rituals create an atmosphere of vibrancy and excitement. According to any guide to holi festival, Rajasthan will add a touch of majestic charm to your festivities, which you will rarely experience anywhere else.
2. Rich Cultural Experiences
If you want to witness the best cultural celebrations, then head to Rajasthan, as it is no less than a full cultural showcase. You will be spellbound by the views of energetic Kalbeliya and Ghoomar dances, melodies of soulful folk music, and live drum performances.
The best Holi in Rajasthan goes beyond just sightseeing, colours and water; it is all about immersing yourself in the community life and traditions, which are rooted so deeply in the state.
3. Deep-Rooted Traditions
The holi festival in Rajasthan begins with Holika Dahan, representing the victory of good over evil. During the festivities, you will witness traditional celebrations taking center stage, where friends and families come together for community prayers and to play with gulaal.
These traditions are not about performance or spectacle; they are lived experiences that connect people to their roots, faith, and history. Holi in Rajasthan truly offers a chance to witness traditions and culture in its purest form.
4. Warm Local Hospitality
If you want to see strangers becoming friends in no time, then head to Rajasthan for the best holi celebrations 2026. The warm local hospitality of the state is one of the most heart-touching aspects of celebrating this festival.
Locals will welcome you with open hearts, genuine care and respect, often inviting you to join their family celebrations. This makes sure that you truly feel at home in Rajasthan rather than just attending the festival.
5. Authentic Festive Food
If you are in Rajasthan for Holi, there is no way you can leave the state without indulging in its rich and authentic festive cuisine. One of the best reasons why the famous Holi in Rajasthan attracts travellers from all over the world.
Not just the colours, the air is filled with the aroma of traditional delicacies being prepared at homes, shops and restaurants. From lip-smacking gujiyas to malpua soaked in sugar syrup, every dessert adds a touch of sweetness to your Holi celebration in Rajasthan. Not only will sweets make your mouth water, but the famous food of Rajasthan like kachori and dal baati churma will do the same.
6. Breathtaking Vistas For Celebrations
Imagine bursts of gulal in the air against the stunning backdrop of royal palaces, grand forts and serene lakes. That is Holi in Rajasthan for you. Rajasthan’s breathtaking vistas make for the perfect backdrop for your celebrations, offering a wonderful blend of natural beauty and traditions.
Whether it is playing Holi in front of the sparkling waters of Lake Pichola or sharing a bite of your favourite dessert with friends, every background has a unique story to tell. A blend of these amazing experiences makes the best Holi in Rajasthan unforgettable.
Which Are The Best Places To Celebrate Holi In Rajasthan?
Koda Maar Holi is celebrated in Shri Ganganagar, Hanumangarh, Bhilwara, and Ajmer regions of Rajasthan. In Koda Maar Holi, the men play with colors and gulal, while the women add an extra twist by playfully hitting them with Kodas (handmade double wooden sticks with rubber) or wet cotton cloths.
It’s a unique way of Holi celebration in Rajasthan where the colors of both joy and a bit of playful ‘ouch’ blend together. Imagine the laughter and excitement as everyone joins in, making Koda Maar Holi a lively and unforgettable experience in these Rajasthan areas.
If you want to witness a beautiful blend of royal heritage and heartfelt traditions, then head to celebrate the Holi festival in Jaipur. With clouds of gulal bursting in the air, melodies of folk music reaching every ear and laughter that cannot be controlled, the Pink City comes alive during this festival.
Some of the best places to visit in Jaipur such as the City Palace, Govind Dev Ji Temple, Hawa Mahal and more offer a mix of experiences from Phoolon ki Holi to Dhulandi Holi. Other than these iconic landmarks, markets such as Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar also come alive with music, laughter and gulal.
In addition to these celebrations, one thing you cannot miss out on during Holi in Jaipur is trying on traditional delicacies. Sweets such as gujiya, malpua and refreshing thandai will make this festival even more special and memorable.
Places To Visit: City Palace, Govind Dev Ji Temple, Amer Fort, Jawahar Kala Kendra, Jaipur local bazaars
Main Holi Events In Jaipur: Holi Fest 3.0, Rang Raas: Rang De Jaipur
Holi in Bikaner is a memorable and traditional celebration that reflects Rajasthan’s deep-rooted culture in an unmatched way. If you want to experience a Holi celebration that feels intimate, community-driven and rich in heritage, then Bikaner is the place for you.
The day often begins with the celebration of Holika Dahan, followed by playing with vibrant colours, singing and enjoying folk music and experiencing warm hospitality. One of the most striking places to witness Holi is Junagarh Fort Bikaner, where the city’s royal legacy adds grandeur to the festive atmosphere through cultural rituals and performances.
If you want to experience the charming and elegant Phoolon ki Holi filled with colourful flowers and devotion, then head to Laxminath Temple. Holi food here also plays an important role, which you definitely cannot miss.
Places To Visit: Junagarh Fort, Laxmi Niwas Palace, Karni Mata Temple, Bikaner old city, Rampuria Havelis
Main Holi Events In Bikaner: Holika Dahan, Rangwali Holi, Folk Celebrations & Chang Dance
Holi celebration in Udaipur is a mesmerizing blend of royal traditions, spiritual rituals and colourful celebrations set against the city’s romantic lakes and palaces. Known as one of the most elegant Holi destinations in Rajasthan, Udaipur celebrates the festival with grandeur that reflects its rich Mewar heritage.
The festivities begin at the iconic City Palace in Udaipur, where the royal family performs traditional rituals, including the lighting of the Holika bonfire, accompanied by folk music and cultural performances. This ceremonial start adds a regal charm that makes Holi in Udaipur truly special.
On the day of Rangwali Holi, locals and visitors gather across the old city areas and near Lake Pichola, joyfully playing with colors amid dhol beats and laughter. Places like Jagmandir Palace and nearby ghats enhance the festive ambiance with their scenic beauty and historical significance.
Places To Visit: City Palace, Jagmandir, Lake Pichola, Jagdish Temple, Gangaur Ghat
Main Holi Events In Udaipur: Royal Holika Dahan at the City Palace, Gangaur Ghat & Lake Pichola Colour Celebrations
The Holi festival in Pushkar is one of the most energetic, colorful, and globally loved places to celebrate Holi in Rajasthan, attracting travelers from across the world. Known for its spiritual aura and bohemian vibe, Pushkar transforms into a lively playground of colors, music, and joy during Holi.
The main celebrations unfold in the narrow streets near Brahma Temple Pushkar, where locals and visitors gather to play with vibrant gulal, dance to loud DJ beats, and celebrate without inhibitions.
The Holi festival in Pushkar is raw, youthful, and full of spontaneous energy, making it especially popular among backpackers and international tourists.
Places To Visit: Brahma Temple, Pushkar Lake, Varaha Temple, Pushkar Ghats, Pushkar Bazaar
Main Holi Events In Pushkar: Holika Dahan, Rangwali Holi, Main Square Holi Celebration, Brahma Temple Holi Rituals
Holi in Jaisalmer is a beautifully understated yet culturally rich celebration set amid golden sandstone architecture and vast desert landscapes. Unlike the high-energy Holi scenes of larger cities, Jaisalmer offers a more traditional and community-driven experience, making it ideal for travelers seeking authenticity.
The festivities often begin around the historic Jaisalmer Fort, where locals gather in temple courtyards and narrow lanes to play with colors, exchange greetings, and celebrate together.
Cultural warmth defines Holi in Jaisalmer, with folk music, dhol beats and local dances add rhythm to the celebrations, while homes prepare traditional sweets like gujiya, laddoos, and refreshing thandai.
Places To Visit: Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon Ki Haveli, Gadisar Lake, Sam Sand Dunes, Jaisalmer local markets
Main Holi Events In Jaisalmer: Traditional Colour Play, Holika Dahan Rituals, Desert Holi Sand Safari
Holi in Ajmer is a beautiful blend of devotion, cultural harmony, and vibrant local traditions. Known for its spiritual significance and inclusive spirit, Ajmer celebrates Holi with warmth and simplicity, making the festival feel deeply personal and meaningful.
The celebrations begin with Holika Dahan in neighborhoods across the city, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. On the day of Rangwali Holi, the best places to visit in Ajmer fill with colours, laughter, and dhol beats as locals joyfully greet each other with gulal.
The old city lanes and local bazaars come alive with friendly colour play and community gatherings.
Places To Visit: Ajmer Sharif Dargah, Ana Sagar Lake, Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra, Taragarh Fort, Ajmer local bazaars
Main Holi Events In Ajmer: Community Street Holi, Holika Dahan, Ajmer Sharif Dargah Area
Holi in Jodhpur is a striking celebration where vivid colors contrast beautifully against the city’s iconic blue houses and grand forts. Known for its royal legacy and warm local culture, Jodhpur celebrates Holi with a perfect balance of tradition, energy, and heritage.
The festivities begin with Holika Dahan in residential areas, followed by Rangwali Holi, when streets echo with dhol beats, folk songs, and cheerful laughter. The old city lanes below Mehrangarh Fort become lively hubs of color play, offering visitors an authentic local experience.
One of the highlights of Holi in Jodhpur is the royal celebration near Umaid Bhawan Palace, where traditional rituals reflect the city’s regal past. Local neighborhoods welcome travelers with open arms, inviting them to join the festivities and share homemade sweets like gujiya, ghewar, and thandai.
Places To Visit: Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada, Umaid Bhawan Palace, Clock Tower Market, Mandore Gardens
Main Holi Events In Jodhpur: Royal Holika Dahan, Old City & Blue City Street Holi, Clock Tower & Sardar Market
What Are The Types Of Holi In Rajasthan?
One of the most unique and lesser-known Holi celebrations in Rajasthan, Dolchi Holi offers a glimpse into the state’s rich diversity and culture. Dolchi Holi is a full-blown celebration of colours, energy and community-driven spirit. Unlike the traditional way of celebrating, this type of Holi involves a ritual where groups of men playfully splash colored water on each other using a dolchi, a large bucket.
Women often participate by overlooking and cheering from the balconies and singing traditional Rajasthani songs. Accompanied by folk songs, drums, and loud laughter, this best Holi in Rajasthan transforms village streets into lively arenas of joy.
Location: Bikaner
Dolchi Holi Dates: 3rd and 4th March, 2026
Famous Holi in Rajasthan is not only known for colours, but also for its extraordinary folk dance performances. Gair Holi stands out as one of the most iconic examples that beautifully reflect the state’s deep-rooted cultural heritage. During Gair Holi celebrations you will witness powerful folk dances performed by men dressed in traditional white attire and vibrant turbans.
The visuals of dancers moving in large circles, known as gair, will fill you with energy and enthusiasm. You will also witness these men energetically clashing wooden sticks to the rhythmic beats of drums and traditional instruments, making Gair Holi one of the most enchanting cultural spectacles.
Location: Mewar, Jodhpur, Ajmer
Gair Holi Dates: 4th March 2026
If you want to celebrate the festival in the most elegant, graceful, and spiritual way possible, Phoolon ki Holi is the solution. Instead of playing Holi with gulal and coloured powders, this celebration involves flower petals creating an atmosphere of purity, devotion and joy.
If playing Phoolon ki Holi is on your bucket list this year, visit cities like Jaipur and Pushkar, where temples transform into stunning displays of tradition and celebration. The celebration is closely associated to Lord Krishna and Radha, which symbolizes pure love and the spring arrival.
Location: Jaipur, Pushkar, Udaipur, Bikaner
Phoolon Ki Holi Dates: 3rd and 4th March, 2026
If you want to celebrate Holi in Rajasthan in Braj style, then Brij Holi is the answer for you. Brij Holi is unique for its multi-day celebrations, which combine beautiful folk dances and reenactments of Krishna and Gopi’s play.
During Brij Holi, you will see people dress beautifully in traditional Rajasthani attire and enjoy lively singing, dancing and playful colour-throwing. In addition, you can enjoy spiritual songs, drums and traditional instruments that create a lively and enthusiastic atmosphere.
Location: Bharatpur
Brij Holi Dates: 26-28 February, 2025
Also Read: Holi In Barsana 2025 Guide
Holi is all about playing with colours, turning every street and corner into vibrant, lively spaces exploding with bursts of different shades. This is what Dhulandi Holi is all about. The celebration begins with the auspicious Holika Dahan, which represents the victory of good over evil.
During the celebrations, people of all age groups come together to play with colouful gulal and coloured water. Traditional folk dances and songs turn the entire festivities into celebrations of energy and enthusiasm.
- Location: Jaipur and Pushkar
- Dhulandi Holi Dates: 3rd and 4th March, 2026
Holi in Rajasthan is synonymous with royalty and grandeur, and Royal Holi is one of the best ways to celebrate it. Jaipur and Udaipur are ideal for these celebrations, as they have some of the best forts and palaces. Royal Holi combines more elegant celebrations with music, drums, dance and colours.
From traditional Rajasthani delicacies to royal processions, these celebrations often leave travellers with unmatched memories. In addition, you can also enjoy puppet shows and cultural performances if you are planning to celebrate Holi in Rajasthan 2026.
- Location: Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur
- Royal Holi Dates: 4th March 2026
One of the most unique Holi celebrations in Rajasthan, Mali Holi is celebrated by the Mali Community, reflecting strong community bonds, traditional values and deep connection. In this form of Holi, men play Holi by throwing colours at women, while they respond by playfully hitting them with bamboo sticks or lathis.
You will see men with shields to protect themselves, which turn the entire celebration into episodes of laughter, teasing and community bonding. This type of Holi in Rajasthan is also a symbol of role reversal, social freedom and breaking of boundaries.
Lathmar Holi is an exciting and unique type of Holi in Rajasthan, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and traditional customs of the state. This fascinating festival is famous in regions influenced by Braj region, where age-old rituals bring people together in a colourful display of joy and devotion.
Unlike the usual Rajasthan Holi 2026 marked only by colours and sweets, Lathmar Holi stands out for its unique and interesting tradition in which women playfully hit men with wooden sticks, known as lath, while men defend themselves with shields.
- Location: Bharatpur
- Lathmar Holi Dates: 4th March 2026
Foods To Try In Rajasthan On Holi
- Gujiya: Gujiya is one of the most famous Holi foods you cannot miss out on trying if you are celebrating Holi in Rajasthan 2026. Crispy on the outside and generously filled with khoya-filled sweetness inside, this traditional Rajasthani sweet is infused with dry fruits and aromatic spices.
- Ghewar: If you are planning on trying just one Holi delicacy in Rajasthan, then let it be ghewar. Its delicate honeycomb texture and decadent flavour make every bite a festival of taste. Ghewar is more than a sweet; it’s a symbol of Rajasthan’s vibrant Holi traditions.
- Thandai: Rajasthan Holi 2026 is incomplete without trying the famous thandai, which is fresh, aromatic and flavourful. The drink is infused with nuts, spices and a hint of cooling milk, which perfectly complements the celebrations.
- Kachori: Another famous dish of Rajasthan, Kachori is a delicious snack you cannot miss on Holi in Rajasthan. Flaky, crispy and bursting with flavours, this savoury delicacy balances the sweetness from all the desserts you will have in Rajasthan.
- Malpua: If you want to try something sweet, soft and syrupy, then Malpua is the answer to your request. It is a classic treat which should not be missed on your Rajasthani Holi trip. Perfectly fried and equally delicious, every bite of Malpua will transport you into the authentic flavours of Rajasthan.
Travel Tips For Holi In Rajasthan
- Book everything early: From trains or flights to hotels, book everything in advance. Places like Pushkar, Jaipur, and Udaipur sell out fast during Holi week.
- Stay inside old towns or near celebration zones to avoid transport shutdowns on Holi day.
- Arrive Early: Arrive 1–2 days before Holi to experience pre-Holi rituals like Holika Dahan and folk performances.
- Plan your outfit: Wear old cotton clothes (white if you want great photos). Avoid synthetic fabrics, as they trap colour and cause skin irritation. Carry a scarf/bandana and sunglasses to protect hair and eyes.
- Wear comfortable footwear: Wear closed sandals or old sneakers with good grip to avoid slipping on wet surfaces.
- Take care of your skin: Apply coconut oil or moisturizer on skin and hair before stepping out, as it allows the colours to wash off easily later.
- Personal belongings: Seal your phone in a zip-lock pouch or waterproof cover.
- Protect the environment: Prefer organic or herbal colours which are safer for skin and the environment.
- Play safe: Stick to public squares, palace events, or hotel-hosted Holi parties for a controlled experience. Avoid narrow lanes late in the day, especially in crowded towns.
- Safety for solo and women travellers: Solo travellers should join group events rather than roaming alone. Women travellers can join organised events in Jaipur and Udaipur, which are safer and more comfortable.
- Try festive food: Try gujiya, malpua, kachori, and thandai but eat from reputable places only.
- Be cautious of what you consume: Be cautious with bhang-mixed thandai; consume only if you’re familiar with it.
- Stay hydrated: Drink bottled water and stay hydrated. Rajasthan heat and Holi can become intense.
- Capture beautiful landscapes: Forts, ghats, and palace backdrops create stunning contrast with colours.
- Respect local traditions and customs: Holi in Rajasthan is joyful but rooted in tradition — respect local customs.In spiritual towns like Pushkar, alcohol may be restricted. Participate with enthusiasm, but avoid aggressive color throwing.
