Celebrate Holi in Mathura & Vrindavan 2025

Holi, the festival of colors, holds a special place in the hearts of devotees and tourists alike when celebrated in Vrindavan and Mathura. Known as the birthplace of Lord Krishna, Mathura, and the town of Vrindavan, where Krishna spent his childhood, come alive during this festival with vibrant colors, rituals, and joyous festivities. In 2025, Holi in Vrindavan and Mathura will be celebrated from March 7 to March 14, promising an unforgettable experience for visitors.

Dates and Timings for Holi in Vrindavan and Holi in Mathura 2025

Dates: March 7, 2025, to March 14, 2025
Main Holi Date: March 13, 2025 (Dhulandi)

Why celebrate Holi in Vrindavan and Mathura? Know About Origin of Holi

While Holi is celebrated in almost every part of India, Holi in Braj is especially famous. Braj is a historical region which covers the area of Mathura, Vrindavan and some nearby areas. Holi here attracts tourists and pilgrims from all over the world because of its unique customs and traditions. Mathura is the birth-place of Lord Krishna, and Vrindavan is the place where he grew up in his childhood.

When Krishna was young, he cribbed to his mother about Radha (his friend) being fair while Krishna himself was dark-complexioned. His mother (Yashoda) suggested him to colour Radha with colours in a playful manner. Over the years, Krishna from his village Nandgaon used to go to Barsana (Radha’s village) to colour Radha and other Gopis. They also used to playfully beat him with sticks. And hence the tradition evolved.

Unique Holi Celebrations in Vrindavan and Mathura

Phoolon Ki Holi in Vrindavan

Where: Banke Bihari Temple, Vrindavan
When: March 7, 2025

Phoolon Ki Holi, or Flower Holi, is celebrated at the Banke Bihari Temple, where flowers replace traditional colors. Devotees and priests shower each other with fragrant flowers, creating a surreal atmosphere filled with joy and devotion. This event marks the beginning of the Holi celebrations in Vrindavan.

Lathmar Holi in Barsana and Nandgaon

Where: Barsana and Nandgaon (near Mathura)
When: March 8-9, 2025

Lathmar Holi, celebrated in the villages of Barsana (Radha’s birthplace) and Nandgaon (Krishna’s village), is a playful and unique Holi tradition. Women from Barsana playfully beat men from Nandgaon with sticks, while the men attempt to shield themselves with shields. This event is filled with laughter, energy, and cultural significance.

Widow’s Holi in Vrindavan

Where: Gopinath Temple, Vrindavan
When: March 10, 2025

Breaking age-old traditions, widows in Vrindavan have started celebrating Holi in recent years. At the Gopinath Temple, widows play with colors as an expression of equality and joy, adding a socially meaningful dimension to the festivities.

Traditional Holi in Mathura

Where: Dwarkadhish Temple, Mathura
When: March 11, 2025

The Dwarkadhish Temple in Mathura hosts a grand Holi celebration with bhajans, dances, and rituals. The temple is adorned with flowers, and devotees immerse themselves in the divine festivities.

Holi Procession in Mathura

Where: Vishram Ghat to Holi Gate, Mathura
When: March 12, 2025

A colorful procession is carried out from Vishram Ghat to Holi Gate, where performers dressed as Radha and Krishna lead the celebrations. The streets of Mathura come alive with music, dancing, and vibrant colors.

Dhulandi in Vrindavan and Mathura

Where: Across Vrindavan and Mathura
When: March 13, 2025

Dhulandi, the main day of Holi, is celebrated with exuberance as people smear each other with gulal (colored powder) and drench in water. The celebration in Vrindavan and Mathura is marked by bhajans, dhol beats, and communal joy.

Cultural and Spiritual Significance of Holi in Mathura & Vrindavan

Holi in Vrindavan and Mathura is deeply intertwined with the stories of Lord Krishna. According to legend, Krishna, known for his mischievous nature, started the tradition of playing with colors to express his love for Radha. The festival also symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, commemorating the story of Holika Dahan, where the demoness Holika was vanquished by devotion and righteousness. These towns bring these legends to life through their vibrant celebrations, drawing devotees from across the world to experience the spiritual essence of Holi.

Stay in Vrindavan during Holi

Vrindavan has a lot of options to stay, but it’s best to book your room in advance. Most of the rooms here are simple and are available at very cheap prices (starting from INR 300 per night for a double bedroom). However, a few resorts and luxury hotels are also available in Vrindavan. 

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Reaching Vrindavan from Mathura

The nearest railway station is at Mathura (12km) and the nearest airport is Agra Airport, approximately 60 km away.  Taxis are available from Mathura railway station at regular intervals for Vrindavan. State buses connect Vrindavan to other neighbouring cities.  Regular buses and taxis operate between Delhi, Agra, and Mathura. The drive from Delhi takes about 3 hours.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss Holi in Mathura & Vrindavan 

Holi in Vrindavan and Mathura is not just a festival; it’s an immersive experience that blends devotion, culture, and sheer joy. From the spiritual Phoolon Wali Holi to the playful Lathmar Holi, every event offers a unique glimpse into the rich heritage of these sacred towns. Whether you are a devotee, a culture enthusiast, or simply someone looking to celebrate Holi in the most vibrant way possible, Vrindavan and Mathura in 2025 promise an unforgettable experience.