Braj Holi 2026 Overview

Braj Holi 2026: The essence of Holi is deeply intertwined with the regions of Mathura and Vrindavan. Unlike the typical two-day celebration, the Braj region revels in the festivities for an impressive 40 days. The celebrations kick off on Basant Panchami and continue with vibrant color play until the main day of Holi. Renowned events such as Laddumar Holi, Lathmar Holi, Phoolwali Holi, and Huranga attract visitors from around the globe. If you're planning to immerse yourself in the Braj Holi experience, discover the specific dates for each celebration in Mathura and Vrindavan for 2026, along with travel tips, accommodation options, and essential advice for the festival.

Braj Holi 2026 Celebration Schedule

Braj Holi 2026 Calendar
In Braj, the Holi festivities span a full 40 days, but the key celebrations are as follows:

Laddumar Holi - Scheduled for Wednesday, February 25, 2026, in Barsana, this event features devotees joyfully tossing laddus at one another within the Radha Rani Temple.

Lathmar Holi - Taking place on Thursday, February 26, 2026, in Barsana, this unique celebration involves married women playfully striking their husbands and other men with sticks. The following day, Friday, February 27, 2026, Lathmar Holi will be celebrated in Nandgaon.

Phool ki Holi - This enchanting celebration occurs in Vrindavan on Saturday, February 28, 2026, where flowers are showered in temples, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere.

Chhadi-mar Holi - On Sunday, March 1, 2026, Gokul will host this event, where women chase men with sticks, reminiscent of Lord Krishna's playful antics. The festivities continue on Monday, March 2, 2026, at Raman Reti in Gokul.

Holika Dahan - This significant ritual will take place on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, in both Mathura and Vrindavan.

Rangwali Holi, also known as Dhulandi, will be celebrated nationwide, including in Mathura, Vrindavan, and Braj, on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.

Travel Tips for Holi in Braj

When to Arrive in Vrindavan and Barsana
To fully enjoy the Holi festivities in Vrindavan, Barsana, Mathura, or Braj, it's advisable to arrive at least 4 to 5 days prior to the main celebrations. With Laddumar Holi on February 25, planning your trip accordingly is essential. Given the large crowds during Holi, arriving early will enhance your experience, allowing you to partake in all the vibrant activities across Nandgaon, Barsana, Mathura, and Vrindavan.

How to Get There
Travel arrangements should align with the specific festival you plan to attend. Mathura, Vrindavan, and Barsana are conveniently accessible by road. If you're traveling on Holi or the day before, it's wise to set off early in the morning to avoid heavy traffic. Barsana is located about 150 kilometers from Delhi, making it reachable by car or bus. Mathura and Vrindavan are also well-connected to Delhi by bus, and the Mathura Junction railway station offers good connectivity to various states, facilitating easy access to Vrindavan, Gokul, and other nearby locations.

Accommodation Options
Many pilgrims opt for hotels in Vrindavan or Mathura. Due to the high volume of visitors during Holi, it's recommended to secure your accommodation in advance. If you reside nearby, consider visiting in the morning and returning by evening.

Must-Try Delicacies:
Braj is famous for its delectable sweets, with Peda being the most renowned. Besides Mathura, Peda from Vrindavan is also highly sought after. Other popular treats include Khurchan, Rabri, and Imarti.

Travel Precautions:
Expect large crowds during Holi. If traveling by road, aim to arrive by 6 a.m. Dress in cotton, full-sleeved clothing for comfort. Given the throngs of people, safeguard your mobile devices and other essentials. Adhere to guidelines provided by temple authorities and ensure the safety of women, children, and the elderly during the celebrations.