Holi in Varanasi is a week-long extravaganza that transforms the ancient city into a canvas of colors. From the famous temple Holi at Sankat Mochan to the playful Lathmar celebrations and the unique water pot ceremony on the ghats, Varanasi offers a Holi experience found nowhere else in India.
Key Takeaways
- Unique Holi Traditions in Varanasi
- Holi Food and Drinks
- Tips for Playing Holi
Unique Holi Traditions in Varanasi
The most famous Holi in Varanasi is the Samrat Holi at Sankat Mochan Temple, where thousands play with colors in the temple courtyard. The celebration starts a week before the main day and continues for several days after.
A unique Varanasi tradition is the Matki Phod (pot-breaking) ceremony where a pot of buttermilk is hung high above the ghats, and teams compete to break it — recreating the childhood exploits of Lord Krishna.
Sankat Mochan Holi
Starts a week before Holi. Colors, music, and thandai in the temple courtyard.
Matki Phod
Teams compete to break a buttermilk pot hung above the ghats. Spectacular to watch.
Lathmar Holi
Nearby Barsana and Nandgaon celebrate with sticks. Day trip from Varanasi.
Holi Food and Drinks
No Holi celebration in Varanasi is complete without thandai — a chilled spiced milk drink with saffron, almonds, and fennel. Many shops near Dashashwamedh serve it with optional bhang (cannabis paste).
Thandai
Try at shops near Dashashwamedh Ghat. Rs 30-80 per glass.
Gujiya
Sweet dumplings filled with khoya and dried fruits. Available everywhere.
Bhang Thandai
Available at licensed shops only. Consume responsibly.
Tips for Playing Holi
Wear old clothes that you don't mind staining. Apply coconut oil to your skin and hair beforehand to protect from colors. Carry a waterproof bag for your phone and wallet.
Protection Tips
Apply coconut oil on skin and hair. Wear sunglasses. Use organic colors only.
Best Areas
Assi Ghat area for tourists. Vishwanath Gali for old city chaos.
Quick Tips
Varanasi Holi is a week-long affair. Sankat Mochan Temple has the biggest celebration. Try thandai and gujiya. Wear old clothes. Apply coconut oil before playing. Use organic colors only.
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