Mathura–Vrindavan Holi 2026 Dates: Full Braj Holi Rangotsav Calendar

Braj Holi 2026 is one of India’s most immersive and spiritually rich festival experiences. Unlike the one-day Holi celebrated across the country, Braj Holi unfolds over several weeks across the Braj region of Uttar Pradesh, closely linked to the life and legends of Lord Krishna. This extended celebration, known as Rangotsav, blends devotion, folklore, music and colour, attracting travellers from across India and abroad.

If you’re planning to witness Holi beyond colours and crowds, Braj Holi offers a deeper, slower and more meaningful way to experience the festival.

What Is Braj Holi and Rangotsav?

Braj Holi is the traditional Holi celebration of Braj Bhoomi — the land associated with Lord Krishna’s childhood. Instead of a single day, the festival follows a step-by-step Rangotsav calendar, where different towns celebrate Holi in their own distinctive style.

Each event is rooted in mythology and temple traditions, featuring bhajans, folk music, ritual processions and community participation. The celebrations move geographically and spiritually from town to town, creating a living cultural trail.

Braj Holi 2026: Confirmed Dates and Key Events

The Braj Holi 2026 schedule is now available, making it easier for visitors to plan travel in advance. While exact temple timings may vary, the core dates remain consistent.

🗓️ Important Braj Holi 2026 Dates

25 February 2026 (Wednesday)
Laddu Holi in Barsana — ceremonial start of Holi celebrations
25–26 February 2026 (Wednesday–Thursday)
Lathmar Holi in Barsana — the most iconic event, where women playfully hit men with sticks
26 February 2026 (Thursday)
Lathmar Holi in Nandgaon — continuation of the tradition
28 February 2026 (Saturday)
Phoolon Ki Holi in Vrindavan — flower petals replace colours inside temples
1–2 March 2026
Holi celebrations in Gokul and Raman Reti
3 March 2026 (Tuesday)
Holika Dahan — bonfire ritual symbolising the victory of good over evil
4 March 2026 (Wednesday)
Rangwali Holi / Dhulandi — main day of colour celebrations
Rang Panchami
Concludes the Braj Holi period (date as per local temple calendars)

Key Towns to Visit During Braj Holi

Braj Holi is celebrated across multiple towns, each adding a unique chapter to the festival:

Mathura
Marks the opening of Rangotsav with temple rituals and cultural programmes
Vrindavan
Known for Phoolon Ki Holi and temple-centric celebrations
Barsana
Famous worldwide for Lathmar Holi
Nandgaon
Hosts its own version of Lathmar Holi following Barsana

Together, these towns form the heart of the Braj Holi circuit.

How to Plan Your Braj Holi 2026 Trip

Book accommodation early, especially in Vrindavan and Mathura
Stay close to major temples to avoid travel delays
Wear simple, comfortable clothing and protect valuables
Expect heavy crowds during Lathmar Holi and Rangwali Holi
Plan travel around specific events rather than only the main Holi day

Local transport gets congested during peak dates, so planning rest days between events helps.

Why Braj Holi Is Different From Regular Holi

Braj Holi is not about quick celebrations or one-day colour play. It is about participation, devotion and continuity. Visitors don’t just observe — they sing, walk, listen, wait, and slowly become part of the rhythm of the festival.

This makes Braj Holi especially appealing for: