Hi! My husband and I will be in India in early March 2026. I'm looking for a tour operator that specifically offers a Holi Festival experience or that we could build a custom trip with (ideally reasonably priced). We will have 5 full days, not 8 (which I know is the min for several companies). Thank you for any recommendations!
Posted by
Minneapolis
481 posts
Where in India are you planning to celebrate? In northern India this festival can have a violent edge, groping, silver paint smeared on your genitals under your clothes, etc. It’s a free-for-all in a rather repressed society. Glad I experienced it though, (not groped).
Not sure why a tour is necessary, it’s celebrated everywhere from urban neighborhoods to the smallest village.
Posted by
9621 posts
We are going to India and Nepal next month. I hope getting the on-line visa is not a problem.
Posted by
new york
1069 posts
I agree..no need for a tour. It's not too expensive to hire a driver, but even that is not necessary, as this is a country-wide festival. I'm not sure you'd want to immerse yourself in the experience for multiple days...
Posted by
Surrey, UK
747 posts
When I was travelling to New Delhi on business, I was always advised to stay in the hotel until after lunch on the main day.
Locals are hurling "colour" - paint, powders and possibly unpleasant liquids, and it is seen as a great sport to target tourists.
It is not a pictureque, dignified occasion!
Posted by
9621 posts
What is going on with the locals through paint at tourists?
Posted by
Surrey, UK
747 posts
It's not specifically aimed at tourists. The festival involves throwing "colour" at everyone - the local go prepared.
As suggested above, this can get out of hand and take on a less than pleasant aspect.