Barsana Lathmar Holi 2026 Dates, Timings, Complete Tour Packages & Insider Guide

Barsana Lathmar Holi 2026 is a once-in-a-lifetime cultural celebration that blends devotion, tradition, and playful energy in the sacred land of Braj. This professionally researched guide is created to help you experience this iconic festival with clarity, comfort, and cultural respect. Inside, you’ll find detailed insights into the main Lathmar Holi rituals, event flow, and the best locations to witness or participate responsibly. The guide also covers carefully designed Barsana Lathmar Holi tour packages for families, solo travelers, and photographers, along with practical information on travel routes, accommodation options, safety measures, photography rules, and local etiquette.
The official Barsana Lathmar Holi 2026 celebrations are scheduled for 25–26 February, making early planning essential for a smooth and memorable experience.

Why Barsana’s Lathmar Holi Is Truly Unique

Barsana’s Lathmar Holi stands apart from every other Holi celebration in India because it is deeply rooted in Braj’s living history and devotion to Radha–Krishna. Unlike modern colour parties, this festival follows an age-old tradition where women of Barsana symbolically “chase away” men from Krishna’s village, Nandgaon, using lathis, while the men protect themselves with shields. This ritual reenacts the playful legends of Radha Rani teasing Lord Krishna, turning mythology into a vibrant, real-life experience. Accompanied by Braj folk songs, temple rituals, and clouds of natural colours, Lathmar Holi feels raw, authentic, and emotionally powerful—making Barsana the most iconic destination for travelers seeking the original and traditional Holi in India.

Barsana Lathmar Holi 2026 Dates & Calendar

As per multiple Braj Holi calendars and local temple traditions, the Barsana Lathmar Holi dates are 25–26 February 2026, with important related events taking place just before and after these days. While Rangwali Holi across India may be celebrated in early March, the real cultural action in Braj begins earlier and continues for several days, centered around Barsana and Nandgaon.

Barsana Lathmar Holi 2026 2026 & Braj Holi Dates 2026 (Table)

Date	Event	Location	Expected Timings*
24 February 2026	Laddoo Holi & Temple Rituals	Barsana (Radha Rani Temple)	Morning to Afternoon
25 February 2026	Barsana Lathmar Holi (Main Day – Phase 1)	Barsana village lanes & temple area	Late Morning to Evening
26 February 2026	Barsana Lathmar Holi (Main Day – Phase 2)	Barsana & outskirts	Morning to Afternoon
26–27 February 2026	Nandgaon Lathmar Holi	Nandgaon (Krishna’s village)	Morning onwards

*View Complete Mathura Vrindavan Holi Dates (Braj Holi Calendar 2026)
👉Mathura Vrindavan Holi 2026-Dates, Timings, Braj Holi Events, Tour Packages & Travel Guide
👉 Mathura Vrindavan Holi Dates 2026-Complete Braj Holi Calendar, Events & Tour Guide

Barsana Holi 2026 & Braj Holi Dates 2026

• 24 February 2026: Laddoo Holi and temple rituals at Radha Rani Temple, Barsana
• 25 February 2026: Barsana Lathmar Holi – Main celebration day (Phase 1)
• 26 February 2026: Barsana Lathmar Holi – Main celebration day (Phase 2)
• 26–27 February 2026: Nandgaon Lathmar Holi and extended Braj Holi events

👉 Holi in Mathura Vrindavan 2026-Dates, Complete Schedule & Tour Packages

5 Days Mathura Vrindavan Holi Tour Package – Complete Braj Holi itinerary (most recommended)

This is a 5-day Barsana Lathmar Holi itinerary designed by an expert, which is perfect in the way that it lets the traveler have a comfortable, well-paced, and culturally respectful experience of the festival. It will be an ideal default tour package of Trip My Vrindavan which will involve all the major Braj Holi attractions in addition to proper rest, guided assistance and local experiences.
👉5 Days Mathura Vrindavan Holi Tour Package 2026

Day 1- Barsana: Laddoo Holi and Radha Rani Temple.

Breakfast and then go to Barsana, the village of Radha Rani. Pay a visit to the very famous Radha Rani Temple, where the festivities start with Laddoo Holi, which includes prayer songs and rituals in the temple, as well as the distribution of laddus.
Visit the narrow heritage lanes of the town in the afternoon, mingle with the people, buy flowers and traditional goods and soak up the spirit of the festival at Barsana. Go back to Vrindavan in the evening to rest and have rest.

Day 2 – Barsana Lathmar Holi (Principal Celebration Day)

One should start early and arrive before the rituals at the Lathmar Holi areas of Barsana (Rangili Gali and areas around). Experience the classic Lathmar Holi, where women play with lathis representatively, and men protect themselves, which is a reenactment of the legend of Radha-Krishna.
Tourists are taken to secure and clean observation spots, where they have time to take photographs and observe their culture. In the late afternoon, you can also have local bhajans or folk shows and then can go to your hotel to rest.

Day 3 – Nandgaon and Govardhan (Braj Exploration)

Depending on the respective locality, go to see Nandgaon to witness its Lathmar Holi, and complete the Barsana-Nandgaon Holi tradition. Alternatively, you can go to Govardhan Hill to parikrama and have a peaceful sunset view. It is a less stressful day, which presents the culture of rural Braj and spiritual landscapes.

Day 4 – Vrindavan: phoolon wali holi and Temple Circuit.

Discover the holy in Vrindavan Holi. Explore Banke Bihari Temple, Prem Mandir and some of the temples with Phoolon Wali Holi where colour is substituted with flowers to make it a decent and family friendly event. Evening is free except when having a heritage walk or leisure.

Day 5 – Departure

Post breakfast, spend the day and buy last minute sari, handicraft or temple souvenirs. Take the train to Mathra railway station or Delhi airport with memorable Barsana Lathmar Holi and unending traditions of Braj model.
Complete 5 Days Holi Tour Package Itinerary 👉5 Days Mathura Vrindavan Holi Tour Package 2026
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How to Reach Barsana (Quick & Clear Guide)

By Road: Barsana is well connected via NH-19 and state highways. Private cars, cabs, and tourist coaches operate regularly. During Holi, pre-booked vehicles or package-based transfers are strongly recommended to avoid last-minute availability issues.

By Air: The nearest airport is Agra (Kheria Airport), around 65–75 km from Barsana. For international and better flight connectivity, New Delhi (IGI Airport) is the best option, located about 160–180 km away.

By Train: Mathura Junction is the closest major railway station (approx. 45 km). It is well connected with Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, and major Indian cities. From Mathura, taxis and tour vehicles are easily available.

Barsana (Mathura, Uttar Pradesh) Google Maps-

Accommodation — Where to Stay

• Budget: Guesthouses and dharmasala at Barsana or Mathra are perfect when one wants to travel alone, as well as those who are on a tight budget.
• Mid-range: Family friendly, clean hotels in Mathura or Vrindavan that are near major temples and transportation routes.
• Luxury: Boutique and points of high quality located at Vrindavan/Mathura with package tie-ups, personal guide and luxury transport.
  Tips: You are in peak season- reserve months earlier and state clearly, check-in/out times and transfers in your tour packages.

Permits, Access & Respectful Participation

• Lathmar Holi is a community ceremony; never cross the limit stipulated by the temple officials and the neighborhood women.
• The areas of participation are restricted–a number of visitors observe and visit through special assigned areas; do not self-impose entry or participation.
• The women are the heads of the ritual; the male figures are mere tourists-they dress decently and adhere to the local traditions around the temples.

Safety & Health Advice (Very Important)

• Crowds: Bring ID, have copies of documents, remain with your group and guide at all times.
• Physical play: Lathmar is a play that is physical in nature, though the health or mobility challenged must just watch.
• Valuables: Waterproof pouches, no jewelry, phone and camera protection.
• Skin and hair: Use coconut oil or moisturizer; do not use synthetic colours.
• Food & water: Drink bottled water, eat in known or pre-determined locations.

Photography & Social Media — Do’s & Don’ts

Do:

• Request permission of close portraits.
• Be safe, be respectful with zoom lenses.
• Abide by temple photography.

Don’t:

• Wear flash where there are lots of people or where it is sacred.
• be in procession paths/or ritual areas.

Barsana Lathmar Holi 2026 — 3-Day Classic Tour Package

Experience the authentic Barsana Lathmar Holi 2026 with our most popular 3-Day Classic Package, carefully curated by Trip My Vrindavan. Witness the legendary Lathmar Holi in Barsana, rooted in the Radha–Krishna tradition, take part in Laddoo Holi at Radha Rani Temple, and enjoy the gentle Phoolon Wali Holi in Vrindavan. This package includes comfortable stays, guided temple visits, and safe local transfers, ensuring a smooth and culturally respectful journey.
Main Barsana events take place on 25–26 February 2026. Seats are limited due to high demand—book early to secure your spot in one of India’s most iconic Holi celebrations.
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🌐 Visit Our Website: Trip My Vrindavan | Vrindavan Mathura Tourism

Conclusion: Plan Your Barsana Lathmar Holi 2026 the Right Way

Barsana Lathmar Holi is not just a festival—it is a living tradition of Braj, where devotion, culture, and celebration come together in their most authentic form. From the powerful rituals at Radha Rani Temple to the playful energy of Lathmar Holi lanes, every moment offers a deep connection to the legends of Radha and Krishna. With clearly defined dates, well-planned itineraries, safe viewing arrangements, and culturally respectful participation, planning in advance is the key to enjoying this experience fully.
By choosing a trusted local expert like Trip My Vrindavan, you ensure comfortable stays, guided access, and a stress-free journey through Barsana, Mathura, and Vrindavan. Whether you are a cultural traveler, photographer, or family visitor, Barsana Lathmar Holi 2026 promises memories that last a lifetime—when done the right way.
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FAQs- Barsana Lathmar Holi 2026 (Mathura Vrindavan)

When is Barsana Lathmar Holi 2026?
The core Lathmar events in Barsana are scheduled around 25–26 February 2026, with related Laddoo Holi events on adjacent dates. Check local updates a week prior.

Is Lathmar Holi safe for tourists?
Yes — when you travel with a local guide, follow instructions, keep to viewing zones, and avoid risky behaviour. Holi is energetic but community-run.

Can women participate in Lathmar Holi?
Absolutely — Lathmar is women-led; many female visitors participate (guided and with consent). Respect local norms and temple rules.

How do I reach Barsana from Delhi?
Take train or drive to Mathura, then a 45–60 km road transfer to Barsana. Many tour operators provide coach pickup from Delhi or Mathura.

Should I book hotels in Barsana or Mathura/Vrindavan?
Mathura/Vrindavan offer more hotel choices and are a short drive away — many travellers prefer staying there for comfort and variety. Book early.

What is the best way to photograph Lathmar Holi?
Use a zoom lens, get permission for portraits, and protect your gear. Hire a local fixer/guide who knows the safe vantage points.

Are there family-friendly Holi experiences?
Yes — packages can include gentler Vrindavan flower Holi and controlled temple viewing for families with kids or seniors.

What should I wear during Lathmar Holi?
Old, modest clothes — long sleeves and full-length bottoms are practical. Apply oil to hair and skin.

Do foreigners need any special permit?
No special permits — but carry valid ID/passport and follow guidance from your tour operator.

How much do Holi tour packages cost?
Packages vary: day trips (INR 2,000–3,500), 3-day (INR 8,500–18,000), luxury (INR 28,000+). Prices fluctuate with demand and hotel choice.