Udaipur Holi Festival: Celebrate the Best Holi in Udaipur
Why is the Udaipur Holi Festival Special?
Holi, the festival of colors, is one of India’s most vibrant celebrations. It marks the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil. It is celebrated with enthusiasm across the country, but Holi in Udaipur stands out due to its royal and cultural significance. The Udaipur Holi Festival is not just about playing with colors; it is an experience of heritage, traditions, and regal festivities.
What makes Udaipur Holi unique is the grand celebration organized by the Mewar royal family at the City Palace. The festival begins with Holika Dahan, where a bonfire is lit to symbolize the triumph of good over evil. The next day, the Holi Celebration in Udaipur is filled with colors, music, dance, and traditional performances. Tourists and locals gather at Gangaur Ghat, Jagdish Temple, and Lal Ghat to immerse themselves in the festive spirit.
The Udaipur Holi Festival also offers a chance to experience Rajasthan’s rich cultural heritage, with folk dances, traditional music, and a taste of festive delicacies like gujiya and thandai. Whether you’re a traveler or a local, celebrating Holi in Udaipur is a magical experience that blends tradition, royalty, and fun.
When and Where is Holi Celebrated in Udaipur?
Holi in Udaipur is a grand two-day celebration filled with cultural traditions, royal rituals, and vibrant color play. The festival follows the Hindu lunar calendar and is observed on the full moon day of Phalguna month. In 2025, the Udaipur Holi Festival will be celebrated on March 13th (Holika Dahan) and March 14th (Dhulandi).
Key Locations for Holi Celebration in Udaipur
- City Palace: The most famous venue for the Udaipur Holi Festival, where the Mewar royal family organizes an elaborate Holika Dahan ceremony with a royal procession and traditional performances.
- Gangaur Ghat & Lal Ghat: These ghats near Lake Pichola come alive with locals and tourists playing Udaipur Holi with colors, music, and dance.
- Jagdish Temple: A spiritual hub where devotees celebrate Holi in Udaipur with prayers and devotional songs.
- Local Streets and Markets: The entire city, from Hathi Pol to Surajpole, gets immersed in colors, festive energy, and music.
Holika Dahan vs. Dhulandi
- Holika Dahan (March 13th, 2025): A sacred fire ritual held at City Palace, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. The bonfire is lit in a royal setting, followed by cultural performances.
- Dhulandi (March 14th, 2025): The main day of color play, where people throw gulal, dance to traditional folk and Bollywood music, and enjoy festive delicacies like gujiya and thandai.
Whether you prefer a royal Holi celebration or an energetic street festival, Holi in Udaipur in 2025 promises an unforgettable experience!
How is the Udaipur Holi Festival Celebrated?
The Udaipur Holi Festival is a grand two-day celebration that blends royal traditions with vibrant cultural festivities. The city comes alive with color, music, and enthusiasm as locals and tourists gather to participate in the joyous event.
Holika Dahan – The Fire Ritual at City Palace (March 13, 2025)
The celebration begins on the eve of Holi with Holika Dahan, a sacred fire ritual symbolizing the victory of good over evil. The most spectacular Holika Dahan takes place at City Palace, where the Mewar royal family hosts a grand event. The evening starts with a royal procession featuring decorated horses, traditional music, and elegantly dressed members of the royal family. The bonfire is then lit in the Manek Chowk courtyard, marking the start of Holi in Udaipur. Guests can witness folk performances, cultural dances, and religious rituals, making it a mesmerizing experience.
Dhulandi – Color Play at Gangaur Ghat & Jagdish Temple (March 14, 2025)
The second day of Holi Celebration in Udaipur is known as Dhulandi, the festival of colors. Locals and visitors gather at Gangaur Ghat, Lal Ghat, and Jagdish Temple to play Holi with gulal (organic colors), enjoy music, dance, and share festive sweets. The vibrant streets are filled with people throwing colors, dancing to folk and Bollywood songs, and spreading joy.
Traditional Music and Folk Performances
Throughout the Udaipur Holi Festival, cultural performances add to the festive spirit. Traditional Rajasthani Ghoomar and Kalbeliya dance, along with folk music performances, create an unforgettable experience. Live drum beats and the sound of dhol fill the air, making Holi in Udaipur a magical blend of heritage and celebration.
Whether you join the royal festivities at City Palace or the lively color play at Gangaur Ghat, Udaipur Holi is a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Best Places to Experience Holi Celebration in Udaipur
Holi in Udaipur is an unforgettable experience, blending royal traditions, spiritual rituals, and vibrant street celebrations. The city comes alive with colors, music, and dance, making it one of the best places in India to celebrate Holi. Here are the top spots to enjoy the Udaipur Holi Festival in 2025:
1. City Palace – The Royal Holi Experience
The grand Holika Dahan celebration at City Palace is a major highlight of Holi in Udaipur. Hosted by the Mewar royal family, this event features a traditional bonfire symbolizing the victory of good over evil. The evening starts with a royal procession, where elegantly dressed members of the royal family participate alongside decorated elephants, horses, and folk dancers.
The bonfire is lit in Manek Chowk, followed by cultural performances, including Ghoomar dance, Kalbeliya performances, and folk music. Fireworks light up the night, marking the beginning of Holi festivities.
Entry & Tickets: This is a ticketed event with limited availability. Travelers should book in advance to experience the royal Holi celebration.
What to Expect:
- A royal ambiance with live folk performances
- Traditional rituals and Holika Dahan ceremony
- Fireworks and a grand cultural evening
2. Jagdish Temple – Spiritual and Cultural Festivities
For those seeking a spiritual experience, Jagdish Temple is a perfect place to celebrate Holi in Udaipur. On Holika Dahan night, a large community bonfire is lit in front of the temple, where devotees gather to perform rituals and prayers.
On Dhulandi (March 14, 2025), the temple area transforms into a vibrant Holi hub. After morning prayers, people gather at Jagdish Chowk to play with gulal (colored powders), dance to traditional folk and Bollywood music, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Cultural Etiquette:
- Respect temple traditions by dressing modestly inside the temple.
- Feel free to participate in the gulal celebrations outside the temple premises.
- Locals are welcoming, and many tourists join in the festivities.
3. Lal Ghat & Gangaur Ghat – Street Celebrations by the Lake
For an authentic street-style Holi Celebration in Udaipur, Lal Ghat and Gangaur Ghat are the best places to be. These iconic waterfront locations along Lake Pichola become colorful playgrounds where locals and tourists gather to throw gulal, dance, and enjoy Holi music.
Gangaur Ghat hosts one of the biggest public Holi celebrations, often featuring live DJs, dhol drummers, and impromptu dance circles. The atmosphere is electric, and people of all backgrounds join in the fun.
Best Time to Visit:
- 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM on Dhulandi (March 14, 2025) is the peak time for celebrations.
- Arrive early to enjoy the festive spirit before the crowds get too large.
- By the afternoon, celebrations wind down as people return to clean up.
Safety Tips:
- Use only natural or organic colors to avoid skin irritation.
- Keep valuables secure in a waterproof bag.
- Respect others—always ask before applying colors to someone.
Where to Stay for the Best Holi Celebration in Udaipur
If you want to stay close to the action, choose accommodations near City Palace, Jagdish Temple, or Gangaur Ghat. Here are some recommendations:
Luxury Hotels:
- Taj Lake Palace – A royal retreat in the middle of Lake Pichola.
- The Leela Palace Udaipur – Offers stunning lake views and premium services.
- Shiv Niwas Palace – Located inside the City Palace complex, perfect for experiencing royal Holi.
Mid-Range & Boutique Hotels:
- Jagat Niwas Palace – A beautiful heritage haveli by the lake.
- Lake Pichola Hotel – Offers stunning lake views and easy access to Holi hotspots.
- Madri Haveli – A restored haveli with a traditional ambiance.
Budget-Friendly Options & Hostels:
- Moustache Udaipur – A lively backpacker hostel near Jagdish Temple.
- Banjara Hostel – Ideal for travelers looking to celebrate Holi with a fun group.
- Jaiwana Haveli – A comfortable guesthouse with great rooftop views.
Why You Must Experience Udaipur Holi Festival in 2025
The Udaipur Holi Festival offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience, blending royal traditions, spiritual rituals, and energetic street celebrations. Whether you choose to witness the grandeur of Holika Dahan at City Palace, play with colors at Jagdish Temple, or dance at Gangaur Ghat, you’re sure to have an unforgettable Holi in the City of Lakes.
Plan ahead, book your stay early, and get ready to immerse yourself in the most vibrant Holi celebration in Udaipur!
Things to Do During Udaipur Holi Festival
The Udaipur Holi Festival is a grand celebration that blends royal traditions, cultural performances, and festive delicacies. Whether you prefer an elegant Holi celebration in Udaipur or a lively street festival, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this colorful event.
1. Join the Royal Holi Celebration in Udaipur
For a truly unique experience, attend the Holi in Udaipur celebration at City Palace, where the Mewar royal family hosts a traditional Holika Dahan ceremony. This royal event features a grand procession with elephants, horses, and dancers, followed by the lighting of the bonfire at Manek Chowk. The evening includes folk music, Ghoomar dance, and Kalbeliya performances, making it a one-of-a-kind experience. Since this is a ticketed event, book in advance for a chance to witness the royal Udaipur Holi Festival.
2. Experience Traditional Holi Music and Dance
During the Holi celebration in Udaipur, the entire city comes alive with Rajasthani folk music and dance. At Gangaur Ghat, Jagdish Temple, and City Palace, you can enjoy live performances of dhol drummers, folk singers, and traditional dancers. The energy of Udaipur Holi is contagious, as people dance together in the streets, throwing gulal and singing festive songs.
3. Enjoy Local Holi Sweets and Festive Drinks
No Holi in Udaipur is complete without indulging in traditional Rajasthani sweets and drinks. Popular treats include gujiya, malpua, and dal baati churma. Don’t miss out on thandai, a spiced milk drink often infused with bhang, a special Holi tradition.
With its royal traditions, cultural performances, and vibrant street celebrations, the Udaipur Holi Festival offers an unforgettable experience for travelers and locals alike!
Safety Tips for Enjoying Udaipur Holi Festival
The Udaipur Holi Festival is a joyous celebration, but it’s essential to take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. From protecting your skin and hair to choosing the right colors, here are some key safety tips for Holi in Udaipur.
1. Protecting Skin and Hair from Harsh Colors
During the Holi celebration in Udaipur, colors can be harsh on the skin and hair. To prevent damage:
- Apply coconut oil or moisturizer to your skin before heading out. This creates a protective layer, making it easier to wash off colors.
- Use a leave-in conditioner or oil on your hair to prevent colors from sticking.
- Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from color powder.
2. Travel Safety Tips for Tourists
While Udaipur Holi is generally safe, here’s how tourists can stay secure:
- Stick to popular Holi celebration spots like City Palace, Jagdish Temple, and Gangaur Ghat, where celebrations are well-organized.
- Keep valuables like wallets and phones in waterproof bags.
- Avoid unknown or overly crowded areas and always travel in groups.
3. Choosing Eco-Friendly Holi Colors
To make Holi in Udaipur more enjoyable and safe:
- Opt for organic or herbal gulal instead of chemical-based colors.
- Avoid water balloons, as they can cause injuries.
- Wash off colors immediately after the celebration to prevent skin irritation.
By following these safety tips, you can enjoy the Udaipur Holi Festival without any worries and make beautiful memories in the City of Lakes!
What to Wear for Holi in Udaipur?
Dressing appropriately for the Udaipur Holi Festival ensures both comfort and protection while enjoying the celebrations. Here’s what you should wear for a safe and enjoyable Holi in Udaipur.
1. Traditional Attire vs. Modern Clothing
- For a cultural experience, wear white kurta-pajama (men) or white salwar kameez (women), as white enhances the colors of Holi.
- If you prefer modern clothing, go for loose cotton t-shirts and comfortable pants that you don’t mind getting stained.
2. Best Fabric Choices for Udaipur Holi
- Cotton and linen are the best fabrics as they are breathable and easy to clean.
- Avoid silk or synthetic fabrics, as they may get damaged by colors.
3. Must-Have Accessories for a Safe Holi
- Sunglasses to protect your eyes from colors.
- Waterproof phone pouch to keep devices safe.
- Comfortable footwear (sandals or old sneakers) to handle wet and slippery areas.
Dressing wisely will make your Holi celebration in Udaipur fun and hassle-free!
Where to Stay for the Best Holi Celebration in Udaipur?
Choosing the right accommodation enhances your Udaipur Holi Festival experience. Whether you prefer a luxury Holi celebration, a budget-friendly stay, or a boutique hotel with cultural charm, Udaipur has excellent options.
1. Luxury Hotels with Exclusive Holi Packages
For a grand Holi in Udaipur, luxury hotels offer premium Holi experiences with organic colors, live folk music, and gourmet Rajasthani feasts. Some top choices include:
- Taj Lake Palace – An iconic floating palace offering private Holi celebrations.
- The Leela Palace Udaipur – A stunning lakeside hotel with a royal Holi experience.
- Shiv Niwas Palace – Part of the City Palace complex, perfect for witnessing Holika Dahan.
2. Budget-Friendly Stays Near City Palace
If you’re looking for affordable accommodation close to Holi hotspots, consider:
- Banjara Hostel – A great option for backpackers and group travelers.
- Jaiwana Haveli – A cozy lakeside guesthouse near Gangaur Ghat.
- Moustache Udaipur – A lively hostel offering Holi celebrations.
3. Boutique Hotels Offering Cultural Experiences
For a blend of tradition and comfort, try:
- Jagat Niwas Palace – A heritage haveli with Holi festivities.
- Lake Pichola Hotel – Stunning lake views and easy access to Holi events.
- Madri Haveli – A restored mansion with cultural charm.
Booking early ensures a hassle-free Holi celebration in Udaipur!
Why You Must Experience Udaipur Holi Festival in 2025
The Udaipur Holi Festival is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that blends royal traditions, vibrant colors, and festive energy. Celebrated in the City Palace with Holika Dahan, followed by the grand color play on the streets, Holi in Udaipur is a unique cultural event. The city’s heritage backdrop, folk performances, and local delicacies like gujiya and thandai make it even more special.
For the best experience, book your accommodations early, as Holi Celebration in Udaipur attracts tourists worldwide. The ideal time to visit is March 2025, with festivities peaking on the day of Holi. Opt for hotels near City Palace or Gangaur Ghat to stay close to the action.
Whether you’re a traveler or a culture enthusiast, Udaipur Holi should be on your bucket list for an unforgettable festival filled with joy, music, and colors! 🎨✨