Braj Holi 2026 is a multi-day celebration. Over the course of almost 40 days, a lengthy and colourful adventure takes place throughout Uttar Pradesh's Braj area. These festivities, which are closely related to Lord Krishna's life, combine devotion, folk customs, and happy mayhem. Every several days, Braj Holi offers something new, from colourful battles to temple rites. Towns like Vrindavan, Barsana, Mathura, and Nandgaon receive thousands of tourists due to the Rangotsav schedule. This short guide will help you to arrange your trip if you plan to visit during the festivities.
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Dates & Timings Of All Events For Braj Holi 2026
Mathura Temple Holi - 27 February, Friday, Krishna Janmabhoomi
Gokulchhdadimar Holi - 1 March, Sunday, Raman Reti
Widow Holi - 2 March, Monday, Gopinath Temple
Holika Dahan - 3 March, Tuesday, Vishwram Ghat and Dwarikadish
Rangwali Holi/ Dhulandi - 4 March, Wednesday, across the Braj regions
Dauji Ka Huranga - 5 March, Thursday, Dauji Temple, Baldev
Other Important Braj Holi 2026 Celebrations
Laddu Mar Holi
Laddu Mar Holi at the Radha Rani Temple in Barsana marks the start of the Holi season in Braj. As a sign of happiness and welcome, priests throw laddus from the temple balcony. The event, which typically lasts from 3 PM to 5 PM, serves as an invitation to Nandgaon for the celebrations the next day.
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Lathmar Holi
The most well-known Braj Holi 2026 event is Lathmar Holi. Women of Barsana playfully strike men from Nandgaon with wooden sticks while the men protect themselves with shields. The event takes place near Radha Rani Temple between 2 PM and 5 PM. The next day, the celebration shifts to Nandgaon at Nand Bhawan Temple, where the roles are reversed. Both days are filled with folk songs, drum beats and vibrant colours.
Phoolon Wali Holi
Banke Bihari Temple and other temples in Vrindavan celebrate Phoolon Wali Holi. In the evening, devotees are doused with flower petals rather than coloured powder. An atmosphere of dedication is created by this modest event.
Rangbhari Ekadashi
In temples, Rangbhari Ekadashi is the official start of Holi. Gulal is offered to Lord Krishna on this day, signifying the beginning of Braj's festive hues.
Widow Holi
Widow Holi at Gopinath Temple and nearby ashrams in Vrindavan has become a symbol of social inclusion. Widows, who were traditionally excluded from festivals, now participate in colour celebrations. The occasion is a symbol of social transformation, compassion, and dignity.
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March 4, 2026, is the date of the main Holi festival. From sunrise to afternoon, the streets of Mathura and Vrindavan are alive with vibrant hues, religious music, and joyous celebrations. Particularly lively are the areas surrounding Dwarkadhish Temple and Banke Bihari Temple. The joyful mood is enhanced by traditional treats like thandai and gujiya.