Lathmar Holi: A Complete Travel Guide for Holi 2025

One of India’s liveliest and most festive holidays is Holi, the festival of colours. It is a celebration of love and unity, the coming of spring, and the victory of good over evil. Even though Holi is widely observed with great fervour, Barsana, a small town in Uttar Pradesh, hosts one of the most distinctive and alluring Holi celebrations. 

Lathmar Holi in Barsana is not your typical Holi celebration; Barsana offers a distinctive experience; it is an exciting mix of aggressive fun, cultural storytelling and vibrant hues, making it one of the most unique types of Holi in Holi India. 

What is Lathmar Holi?

The Lathmar Holi is a unique and playful version of the traditional Holi celebration, where women playfully beat men with sticks or ‘lathis’. This unique form of celebration happens only in Barsana and its neighbouring village, Nandgaon, which has a rich cultural and religious history.

Legend has it that Lord Krishna and his mischievous friends would travel from Nandgaon to Barsana to tease and drench the Gopis (young women) in colours. The women and Radha decided to take matters into their own hands. They playfully led the men out of Barsana while beating them, masquerading them in women’s clothing, and forcing them to dance. This story laid the foundation for Lathmar Holi Barsana, where the Holi celebration follows this lively tradition even today.

Lathmar Holi Celebration in Barsana

On the day of Lathmar Holi, the men from Nandgaon town march to Barsana, carrying a palanquin, singing Holi songs, and playfully teasing the women. The women, armed with sticks, defend their town by hitting the men with their lathis. The streets are painted with vibrant colours as locals joyfully throw natural colours.

Unlike other places where Holi is a one-day event, the Lathmar Holi in Barsana is celebrated for two days. On the first day, the men of Nandgaon attempt to colour the women of Barsana, while on the second day, the women retaliate by colouring the men. This fun battle is not only a major tourist attraction but also represents the ancient love story of Krishna and Radha, celebrated through playful mischief and devotion.

Lathmar Holi 2025 Dates

Date	Event
March 8, 2025	Lathmar Holi in Barsana
March 9, 2025	Lathmar Holi in Nandgaon

How to Reach Barsana for Lathmar Holi?

If you have decided to witness the lathmar holi Barsana and lathmar holi Mathura, reaching these towns is quite convenient. Here’s a travel guide for you:

By Train: The closest rail station is Mathura Junction, about 12km from Nandgaon and serves as a base for people who want to view the Lathmar Holi Barsana. Mathura connects with larger cities such as Varanasi, Agra, Jaipur, and Delhi.

By Air: The first choice is Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi, about 142km from Barsana. From there, you can book a car, hop on a train to Mathura and then drive to Nandgaon or Barsana. Another option is the closest airport, Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Airport in Agra, which is around 115 km from Barsana. Once you land in Agra, you can take a taxi or public transport to reach Barsana and Nandgaon. 

By Road: Regular state buses and taxis are available from other cities like Delhi, Agra, and Vrindavan. Mathura is the cultural centre and the main stop for people who want to go to Vrindavan during Holi or experience the Holi celebrations in Mathura Vrindavan.

Travel Tips For Lathmar Holi

Dress Appropriately

1. Wear old, comfortable clothes as they will get covered in colours. White outfits look great in photos but will be permanently stained.
2. Prefer full-sleeved shirts and long pants to protect your skin.
3. Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from colours and dust.
4. Opt for closed-toe shoes instead of sandals to protect your feet.

Carry Essentials

1. A scarf or dupatta to cover your head and face from excessive colour or water splashes.
2. A waterproof pouch for your phone and valuables.
3. A moisturizer and coconut oil on your skin and hair to make colour removal easier.

Safety Tips

1. The crowd can be overwhelming. Stay with your group and decide on a meeting point if you get separated.
2. Avoid overly aggressive areas and be cautious in tightly packed crowds.
3. Women travellers should consider travelling in groups for safety.
4. Respect local customs, and if you feel uncomfortable, politely move away.

Accommodation & Transport

1. Book hotels in advance, as Barsana and Nandgaon get crowded during this time. Staying in Mathura or Vrindavan is a good option.
2. Use local transport or hire a taxi since roads get blocked due to celebrations.

Photography & Social Etiquette

1. Lathmar Holi is a traditional festival. Always ask for permission before clicking close-up pictures of locals.
2. Keep your camera in a plastic cover to protect it from colours.
3. Respect people’s personal space. Holi is fun but should be enjoyed responsibly.

Celebrate Lathmar Holi with TripzyGo

Visit the towns of Barsana and Nandgaon to take part in the colourful musical and traditional Lathmar Holi celebration. Beyond simply being a festival, it is a vibrant manifestation of life, love, and solidarity that unites people in a joyful embrace. From the fun Lathmar Holi in Barsana to the lavish celebrations in Mathura and Vrindavan, with TripzyGo, you experience the many regional traditions surrounding Holi. We ensure you make priceless memories full of joy and laughter by participating in the lively colour battles, eating traditional foods, and interacting with locals. Participate in the Holi celebration with TripzyGo and join a gathering that brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds.