Rangwali Holi

The story

This is Holi as the world imagines it, only wilder. The entire town of Vrindavan is drenched in clouds of gulal, and celebrations peak at noon inside Banke Bihari and the ISKCON Krishna Balaram Temple, where ecstatic drums, conches and non-stop kirtan turn the courtyards into a riot of colour. Locals, sadhus and travellers from every continent dance together until everyone is a single shade of pink.

Quick facts

• 1Celebrations peak at noon inside Banke Bihari and ISKCON.
• 2Drums, conches and non-stop kirtan drive the colour-soaked crowds.
• 3Braj Holi is the most famous Holi celebration in the world.

Where to see it

Temples to visit

Frequently asked questions

When is Rangwali Holi celebrated in Vrindavan?

Rangwali Holi is celebrated in Phalguna Purnima / next day (March). Festivals follow the Hindu lunar calendar, so exact dates shift each year. Dates shown are indicative — confirm locally before travelling.

Where is Rangwali Holi celebrated?

Rangwali Holi is centred at Banke Bihari Temple, ISKCON Vrindavan, Streets across Vrindavan.

What is the significance of Rangwali Holi?

The primary, high-energy festival of colours. This is Holi as the world imagines it, only wilder. The entire town of Vrindavan is drenched in clouds of gulal, and celebrations peak at noon inside Banke Bihari and the ISKCON Krishna Balaram Temple, where ecstatic drums, conches and non-stop kirtan turn the courtyards into a riot of colour. Locals, sadhus and travellers from every continent dance together until everyone is a single shade of pink.