Holi, known as the festival of colors, marks the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. This vibrant Hindu festival is celebrated throughout India, with each region having its own unique way of participating in the festivities. In this blog, I will show you how Holi is celebrated in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh.
Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, holds profound significance during Holi, and the celebration here is marked by unparalleled enthusiasm.
Historical Significance:
Mathura’s Holi festivities are deeply rooted in the stories of Lord Krishna, who is believed to have spent his childhood in this region. According to tradition, young mischievous Krishna would throw colors on the village girls (Gopias), this practice has evolved into the Holi celebrations observed today. This cultural heritage makes Mathura and its neighboring towns the main attraction during the festival.
Schedule for Braj Holi 2025
February 3: Basant Panchami – Holi flag hoisting at Ladliji Temple,Barsana.
February 28: Maha Shivaratri – First Holi procession at Ladliji Temple, Barsana.
March 7: Phag Aamantran – Laddu Holi in the evening at Ladliji Mahal, Barsana.
March 8: Lathmar Holi in Barsana.
March 9: Lathmar Holi in Nandgaon.
March 10: Rangbhari Holi and Phoolon ki Holi in Vrindavan, at Banke Bihari Temple.
March 11: Holi celebrations at Dwarkadheesh Temple, Gokul.
March 12: Holi at Banke Bihari Temple and Dol Celebrations in Vrindavan.
March 13: Holika Dahan Phalen and across Braj.
March 14: Dhulhadi – Rangon ki Holi in Entire Braj region.
March 15: Huranga at Baldev’s Dauji Temple.
March 16: Huranga in Nandgaon.
March 17: Traditional Huranga in Jao village.
March 18: Charakula Dance in Mukharai
March 19: Huranga in Batain
March 20: Huranga in Gidoh
March 21: Ran Panchami – Huranga in Khaira.
March 22: Holi Celebrations at Ranganathji Temple, Vrindavan.
How to Reach Mathura from Major Cities:
Mathura is really well connected by road, rail and air.
From Delhi:
By Train: Multiple trains run between Delhi to Mathura daily, including many trains which are Gatimaan Express, Shatabdi Express and Taj Express. The journey take around 1.5-2 hours. One of the easiest way to travel to Mathura.
By Road: Mathura is around 160 kms from Delhi, a drive via Yamuna Expressway takes about 3 hours.
Many government as well as private buses are available. You can also hire private cabs from multiple areas of Delhi.
From Agra:
By Train: it’s a very short journey which takes around 40 minutes, various trains are available at different timings.
By Road: The distance is about 60 km, various government and private buses are available from bus station. You can also hire your private cab which will take around 1.5 hours to reach Mathura.
From Mumbai and Other Metro Cities:
By Train: Multiple long distance trains are available from Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Banagalore to Mathura.
This is one of the budget friendly option available but bookings should be done before few months.
By Air: The nearest airport is Agra which is about 60 km away. From there you can either take train, bus or cab.
Local Transport in Braj Region:
Auto- rickshaws and E-Rickshaws: These are the most common modes of transport for short distances.
Taxis and Rental Cabs: This is comfortable option to cover long distance but it’s little costly.
Buses: Uttar Pradesh State Transport buses connects all the nearby towns but it can get really crowded during the festival so be there as early as possible.
Tip 1: If you have a group of 5-6 people you can directly take a sharing rickshaws to nearby towns. You can bargain with the driver and can get an affordable rate.
If you are solo traveller then you can take sharing rickshaws which are not very costly. It’s most efficient and fast option to reach nearby towns.
Tip 2: Mostly book your accommodation in Mathura, the main city. It’s well connected and there are many options for stays. You can good 3-5 star hotels, budget-friendly hotels, and various Dharamshalas around the city. And you can also easily travel to neighboring cities and come back to Mathura after the celebration.
Tip 3: For all Photographers and Content creators you can give some ransom money and climb on terrace of nearby buildings to get a nice view.
Safety Tips for Mathura Holi:
The Celebration of Holi in Mathura and Vrindavan is definitely joyful festival but can sometimes become overwhelming. Here are some essential safety tips:
Protect Yourself from Colours:
- Wear old clothes because at the end of the day it’s getting all stained.
- Apply coconut oil or petroleum jelly on your Aik and hair to prevent damage from colours.
- wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from coloured powders.
Beware of crowds and pickpockets:
- Keep your belongings in secure crossbody bag.
- Definitely avoid carrying valuables or large amount of cash.
- Stay in groups especially if you are solo traveller or with family.
- Be cautious of MONKEYS, especially in Vrindavan, as they are very well known for snatching mobile phones, spectacles and other belongings. Keep your items secure and avoid flashing them openly. Also carry frooti or small juice bottles so you can throw at them and get back your belongings.
Respect Local Customs and Culture:
- Some Holi events, especially in Barsana, involve many traditional rituals like Lathmar Holi. Respect the local traditions and participate accordingly.
- Dress modestly so you can easily blend with the local crowd.
Be Aware of HARASSMENT and personal boundaries:
- Some individuals use the festival as an excuse for inappropriate behaviour, especially towards women. Be careful from people trying to put colours on you aggressively or attempting to touch inappropriately.
- If you feel uncomfortable just say no and stay away from the crowded areas.
- Women travellers should always consider travelling in groups or staying in safe zones.
Mathura is definitely a once in a lifetime experience but preparations is a key to enjoy it safely. Keep in mind all the safety tips and enjoy the fesitval trouble free.
