Mathura and Vrindavan Holi is the most famous and spiritually vibrant Holi celebration in the world. Known as Braj Holi, this festival transforms the birthplace and playground of Lord Krishna into a magical land filled with colors, flowers, devotion, and music. Thousands of devotees and tourists gather here every year to witness unique celebrations like Lathmar Holi, Phoolon Ki Holi, and Rangwali Holi.
In 2026, Holi celebrations in Mathura and Vrindavan will begin in late February and conclude with the main color festival on March 4, 2026, with Holika Dahan on March 3, 2026.
This complete travel guide covers official dates, timings, must-see events, best places, and travel tips to help you plan the perfect Holi experience in Mathura Vrindavan.
Mathura Vrindavan Holi 2026 Dates (Official Schedule)
Holi in the Braj region is not a one-day eventit is a multi-day festival celebrated across Mathura, Vrindavan, Barsana, and Nandgaon, each with its own traditions and rituals.
Main Holi Dates 2026
- Holika Dahan: March 3, 2026
- Rangwali Holi (Main Holi): March 4, 2026
Complete Braj Holi Calendar 2026
February 25, 2026 – Barsana Laddu Holi
Celebrated at Radha Rani Temple, where devotees throw laddus and colors as part of joyful rituals.
February 26, 2026 – Barsana Lathmar Holi
One of the most famous Holi celebrations where women playfully hit men with sticks, recreating Krishna and Radha’s playful pastimes.
February 27, 2026 – Nandgaon Holi
Men from Barsana visit Nandgaon to continue the Lathmar Holi tradition with colors and songs.
February 28, 2026 – Phoolon Ki Holi (Vrindavan)
Celebrated at Banke Bihari Temple, where Holi is played using flower petals instead of colors.
February 28, 2026 – Mathura Temple Holi
Special Holi celebrations and rituals take place at Krishna Janmabhoomi and other temples.
March 1, 2026 – Gokul Holi
Celebrated at Raman Reti and Gokul, representing Krishna’s childhood Holi.
March 3, 2026 – Holika Dahan
Bonfires are lit symbolizing victory of good over evil.
March 4, 2026 – Rangwali Holi
The grand finale where everyone plays with colors, gulal, and water.
Holi Timings in Mathura Vrindavan 2026
While exact timings vary by temple and location, most celebrations follow this general schedule:
Temple Holi Timings
Morning: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Afternoon: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Morning is the best time to experience temple Holi with fewer crowds.
Holika Dahan Timing
Evening: Around 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Major Holika Dahan celebrations take place at:
- Dwarkadhish Temple
- Vishram Ghat
- Banke Bihari Temple
Why Holi in Mathura Vrindavan is So Special
Mathura and Vrindavan are deeply connected to Lord Krishna’s life, and Holi celebrations here are based on his playful love story with Radha.
According to mythology:
- Krishna applied color on Radha’s face
- This became the origin of Holi traditions
- People celebrate this divine love every year through colors
Holi here is not just a festival it’s a spiritual experience.
Must-See Holi Events in Mathura Vrindavan 2026
Here are the top Holi celebrations you must not miss:
1. Barsana Lathmar Holi
Location: Barsana
Highlights:
- Women hit men with sticks
- Unique and famous worldwide
- Traditional songs and celebrations
This is the most iconic Holi event in India.
2. Phoolon Ki Holi – Flower Holi
Location: Banke Bihari Temple, Vrindavan
Highlights:
- Holi played with flowers
- No colors, only petals
- Beautiful and spiritual experience
3. Banke Bihari Temple Holi
Location: Vrindavan
Highlights:
- Most famous temple Holi
- Thousands of devotees attend
- Intense color celebrations
4. Holi at Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple
Location: Mathura
Highlights:
- Cultural performances
- Devotional songs
- Traditional Holi rituals
5. Rangwali Holi – Main Holi
Location: Entire Mathura and Vrindavan
Highlights:
- Massive color celebrations
- Public participation
- Most energetic day
Read Also: Best Places to Visit in Holi Festival 2026
Best Places to Celebrate Holi in Mathura Vrindavan
These locations offer the best Holi experience:
Top Holi Locations
- Banke Bihari Temple, Vrindavan
- Dwarkadhish Temple, Mathura
- Barsana
- Nandgaon
- Gokul
- Vishram Ghat
Best Time to Visit Mathura Vrindavan for Holi 2026
The best time to visit is:
February 25 – March 5, 2026
This allows you to experience:
- Lathmar Holi
- Flower Holi
- Temple Holi
- Main Holi
Arriving early helps avoid last-minute rush and accommodation issues.
How to Reach Mathura Vrindavan
By Air
Nearest Airport:
Delhi Airport (180 km)
By Train
Nearest Station:
Mathura Junction
Well connected to:
- Delhi
- Mumbai
- Jaipur
- Agra
By Road
Mathura is connected via Yamuna Expressway and NH-19.
Distance from Delhi: 3 hours
Where to Stay in Mathura Vrindavan During Holi
Best Areas:
Vrindavan (near Banke Bihari Temple)
Mathura (near Krishna Janmabhoomi)
Hotels get fully booked quickly, so reserve at least 2–3 months in advance.
3-Day Mathura Vrindavan Holi Itinerary 2026
Day 1
Visit:
Barsana – Lathmar Holi
Day 2
Visit:
Vrindavan – Flower Holi
Banke Bihari Temple
Day 3
Visit:
Mathura – Main Holi
Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple
Travel Tips for Mathura Vrindavan Holi 2026
Follow these tips for a safe and enjoyable experience:
Wear white clothes
Carry sunglasses
Protect phone and camera
Use natural colors
Stay hydrated
Avoid overcrowded areas
Weather during Holi:
18°C to 30°C
Comfortable for travel.
Safety Tips for Tourists
Travel in groups
Book hotels early
Avoid carrying valuables
Follow local guidance
