Holi 2026 Date in India: Long Weekend Plans, Cultural Celebrations & Best Getaways
Early March in India carries a noticeable shift. The sharpness of winter fades, afternoons grow warmer, and markets begin filling with powdered colours in pinks, saffrons, and electric blues. Holi arrives at this precise seasonal turning point — just before summer settles in.
In 2026, Holi does not fall on a conventional long weekend. It lands on a Tuesday. But that detail changes planning rather than limiting it. With Holika Dahan on Monday, 2 March 2026, many travellers are already shaping a four-day break by combining the weekend with one working day off.
In this Blog
When Is Holi 2026 in India?
Holi follows the Hindu lunar calendar and is observed on the full moon (Purnima) of the month of Phalguna.
Confirmed dates for Holi 2026:
| Occasion | Date | Day | Significance |
| Holika Dahan | 2 March 2026 | Monday (evening) | Bonfire ritual symbolising victory of good over evil |
| Rangwali Holi (Festival of Colours) | 3 March 2026 | Tuesday | Nationwide colour celebrations |
Holika Dahan takes place after sunset, with exact muhurat timings varying slightly by city.
Does Holi 2026 Create a Long Weekend?
Not automatically — but it can.
Because Holi 2026 falls on Tuesday, 3 March:
- Saturday – 28 February
- Sunday – 1 March
- Monday – 2 March (Holika Dahan)
- Tuesday – 3 March (Holi)
By taking leave on Monday, travellers can create a four-day break. Many schools and regional offices may already observe partial closures on Holika Dahan.
This structure makes Holi 2026 one of the first flexible travel windows of the year.
Best Places to Visit on Holi 2026 in India
Holi celebrations vary dramatically by region. Some are devotional and temple-centred. Others are music-driven and contemporary. Some remain local and community-focused.
Choosing the right destination determines the tone of your experience.
Holi in Rishikesh: Colour by the Ganga
Rishikesh offers a balanced Holi celebration — festive but not overwhelming.
What defines Holi in Rishikesh:
- Community gatherings near the river
- Ashram-organised celebrations
- Live percussion and chanting
- Adventure options like rafting
The setting – riverbanks framed by hills – adds a visual dimension that feels distinct from urban celebrations.
Unlike metropolitan Holi events, celebrations here typically begin mid-morning on 3 March and taper off by afternoon. Alcohol-driven gatherings are less common in spiritual zones near Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula.
Ideal for: Solo travellers, yoga enthusiasts, backpackers, mixed-age friend groups
Connectivity: 5–6 hours by road from Delhi; nearest airport – Dehradun
Crowd level: Moderate but manageable
Hampi Holi: Open-Air Celebration Among Ruins
Hampi has developed a reputation for expansive, music-led Holi gatherings.
What to expect:
- Large open public spaces
- High-energy dancing
- Youthful, backpacker-heavy crowds
- Strong domestic tourism participation
Hampi Holi is visual, loud, and dynamic – suited to travellers seeking atmosphere over ritual depth. Celebrations usually peak between 10 AM and 3 PM on 3 March. By evening, the town quiets down.
March weather in Hampi is already warming, with temperatures touching 32–34°C, so hydration and sun protection are essential.
Ideal for: Young travellers, backpackers, photography enthusiasts
Connectivity: Nearest railhead – Hospet (Hosapete); road access from Bengaluru and Goa
Crowd level: High, especially in central zones
Mathura & Vrindavan: The Ritual Epicentre of Holi
Mathura and Vrindavan represent the theological heart of Holi.
Celebrations here include:
- Lathmar Holi in nearby Barsana and Nandgaon (days before 3 March)
- Temple-based flower Holi (Phoolon Ki Holi)
- Processions and devotional singing
- Extended festivities spanning over a week
Unlike most cities where Holi is a single-day celebration, the Braj region observes multiple themed Holi events leading up to Rangwali Holi.
Important Planning Notes:
- Accommodation sells out weeks in advance
- Crowd density is extremely high
- Narrow lanes make vehicle movement difficult
- Guided entry to temples can reduce waiting time
Ideal for: Cultural travellers, photographers, devotional visitors
Crowd level: Very high
Sangla Valley Holi: A Scenic, Low-Density Alternative
Sangla Valley offers a contrasting rhythm.
In early March:
- Snow may still cap surrounding peaks
- Celebrations are small-scale and local
- Landscape dominates over spectacle
Sangla Valley Holi suits couples, photographers, and travellers who prefer quiet participation.
Jaipur & Udaipur: Curated Heritage Celebrations
Jaipur and Udaipur combine tradition with structured hospitality events.
These cities offer:
- Palace or heritage hotel Holi gatherings
- Folk performances
- Controlled guest environments
- Strong flight connectivity
They are ideal for families and international travellers seeking a refined experience.
What Is the Weather Like During Holi 2026?
Early March weather across India is transitional.
Typical conditions:
- North India: 18°C–30°C
- Rajasthan: Dry and sunny
- Himachal Pradesh: Cool mornings, mild afternoons
- Karnataka region (including Hampi): 22°C–34°C
This timing avoids peak summer heat, making outdoor celebrations comfortable in most regions.
Should You Book Holi Tour Packages for 2026?
It depends on the destination.
Choose holi tour packages if:
- Visiting Mathura or Vrindavan
- Preferring organised event access
- Travelling with family
- Wanting structured transfers and accommodation
Plan independently if:
- Visiting Hampi or Rishikesh
- Comfortable navigating local logistics
- Seeking boutique stays or quieter settings
Many holi packages begin appearing in listings by December 2025.
Travel Planning Tips for Holi 2026
- Arrive at least one day before 2 March
- Confirm whether your hotel permits on-property colour play
- Protect electronics and valuables
- Use skin-safe, organic colours
- Monitor railway updates for potential seasonal increases in capacity (including additional festival services)
While no dedicated holi special train has been officially announced yet, Indian Railways typically adds extra capacity on high-demand routes closer to festival dates.
FAQs: Holi 2026 Date & Celebration Planning
When is Holi 2026 in India?
Holi 2026 in India will be celebrated on 2 and 3 March 2026. Holika Dahan will take place on Monday evening, 2 March 2026 and Rangwali Holi (the festival of colours) will be observed on Tuesday, 3 March 2026.
Why is Holi 2026 not a standard long weekend?
Because it falls on a Tuesday, not a Monday or Friday. Travellers can extend it into a four-day break by taking leave on Monday.
What are the best places to visit on Holi 2026?
Rishikesh, Hampi, Mathura, Jaipur, Udaipur, and Sangla Valley are among the most popular options, each offering different styles of celebration.
What is special about Holi in Rishikesh?
It blends riverside celebrations with spiritual settings, creating a festive but relatively balanced atmosphere.
Is Hampi Holi safe for tourists?
Yes, when participating in organised gatherings and staying in reputable accommodations. Large public celebrations can be high-energy.
What is the weather like during Holi this year?
Early March generally offers mild mornings and warm afternoons across most of India, with cooler temperatures in Himalayan regions.
