With streets crowded with people engulfed in colour and celebration, Holi in Mathura and Vrindavan provides an experience that cannot be matched. These cities, which are renowned for being the greatest locations to celebrate Holi, come to life with customary rites, music, and dances that exemplify the spirit of harmony and rebirth. People go from all around to take part in the age-old customs of Holi in Mathura and Vrindavan, which highlight the festival's diverse cultural heritage. It is like entering a painting of colours and ancient customs as you immerse yourself in Mathura-Vrindavan's Holi celebration. Beyond the conventional temple circuits, there are particular locations where the spirit of Holi can be felt in its simple culinary and cuisine form, even while the entire region comes alive with celebrations. Here are some of the best street foods to try out if you’re planning to celebrate Holi 2026 in Mathura-Vrindavan this year.
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Makhan Mishri
Makkhan Mishri is a creamy, almost paste-like mix of white butter (makkhan) and mishri (sugar crystals). Lord Krishna’s affinity towards white butter has made this prasad a widely popular one; you can find it being served in local mithai shops too. Devotees lovingly prepare and present it to the Lord, symbolising their adoration and commitment during this auspicious celebration.
Doodh Jalebi
The combination of hot milk and crispy jalebis can ward off any kind if morning blues. Jalebi is a crispy, coiled-like dessert made with gram flour, flavoured with kesar. Milk helps complement the dense nature of this dessert.
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Kachori Sabzji
This tasty, spicy, and flavourful kachori, filled with urad dal and spices, is the most consumed dish in Vrindavan. Another name for this deep-fried pastry is Bedai, and it is served on the streets with a variety of chutneys, but more popularly, it is served with aloo sabzji. Curd is also served on the side often, making this a must-have breakfast dish while in Vrindavan.
Lassi
The city of Makhan-chor loves lassi. The lanes of Vrindavan come alive each morning, with food vendors hawking ‘Lassi, lassi!’ Served in kullhad (earthen pots/glasses), with a thick layer of cream and dry fruits, chilled lassi is the perfect start to a new day in this holy city. During summers, varieties of lassi, like those flavoured with mangoes, are also served.
Bhalla-Papdi Gol Gappe
The ‘chaat fever’ of Mathura should not be underestimated at any time. Much like the rest of UP, chaat items like Bhalla papdi, dahi bhalle and gol gappe are very popular on the streets of Mathura. These chaat staples are whipped in top-quality yoghurt, chutneys and masalas. Hence, a must-try.
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Mathura Pede
You just cannot step outside Mathura without trying Mathura ke Pede or packing some for your family. This is the rule, and we didn’t make it. This particular peda, which is synonymous with Mathura, is brown in colour, square-shaped milk fudge, made with milk, ghee, sugar and flavoured with cardamom.
Rabri
The attractive aroma of warm rabri floats through the air in the busy streets of Vrindavan. Rabri represents the culture of this holy city. The sweet, saffron-flavoured milk pudding is given to customers in tiny earthen bowls called kulhars, to enjoy. Some vendors like to sprinkle crunchy nuts on top for added texture.
Aloo Tikki
As soon as you step into the busy streets of Vrindavan, you will find that one snack that rises above all - the humble yet mighty aloo tikki. The best aloo tikkis are made fresh daily by street vendors who have perfected the art over decades. It is usually served with green mint chutney and tamarind chutney, along with chole. This vegetarian street food sums up the magic of Vrindavan.