Clouds of pink, yellow and green powder, music in the streets and strangers wishing you “Happy Holi!” Holi is one of the most joyful days you can spend anywhere in the world. It can also be intense. Here is what women should know before celebrating it in India.
What Is Holi?
Holi is the Hindu festival that welcomes spring and celebrates the victory of good over evil. On the evening before, bonfires are lit for Holika Dahan. The next morning, people fill the streets to throw colored powder and water at friends, family and strangers, then visit each other’s homes to share sweets. For one day, everyday rules relax and everyone plays.
When Is Holi in 2027?
Holi follows the Hindu lunar calendar and falls on the full moon of the month of Phalguna, usually in March. In 2027, Holi is expected on March 22, with the Holika Dahan bonfires the evening before. Dates can vary by a day between regions, so check locally before you plan.
Where to Celebrate
Holi is celebrated all over North India. The towns of Mathura and Vrindavan, linked to the god Krishna, hold some of the most famous and crowded celebrations, sometimes over several days. Jaipur, Delhi and Udaipur are also popular. For a first Holi, a hosted celebration, in a hotel, a private home or a community space, is often the most relaxed and joyful way to take part.
What Women Should Know
Big street celebrations can get very crowded, and some men use the chaos as an excuse for unwanted touching, especially later in the day. This is not a reason to miss Holi. It is a reason to choose how you celebrate it.
Celebrate with a group or a host. A private or hosted celebration lets you enjoy the colors with local people, without the crowds.
Go out in the morning. The playing usually happens from morning until early afternoon. After that, things calm down and many places close for the day.
Say no clearly. It is fine to refuse color, food or drinks. A firm “no” and stepping away is perfectly acceptable.
Be careful with bhang. This traditional cannabis drink is often served at Holi. It is much stronger than it tastes, and its effects can last for hours.
What to Wear and How to Prepare
Wear white, or clothes you never want to see again. White shows the colors beautifully, but the stains rarely come out. Choose loose, opaque clothes, because wet white fabric can become see-through.
Oil your skin and hair. Coconut oil on your skin and hair before you go out makes the color much easier to wash off. Tie long hair back.
Protect your eyes and phone. Sunglasses help, and contact lenses are best left at home. Keep your phone in a waterproof pouch.
Bring as little as possible. A little cash, a copy of your ID and nothing you would be sad to lose.
Some colors can still tint your skin and nails for a day or two. Natural, plant-based colors are kinder to your skin and to the environment.
How We Celebrate Holi at Her Getaway Club
The Golden Journey (March 14 - 23, 2027) is our women-only small-group journey through North India, for 6 to 14 women. It takes us from Delhi to Agra and the Taj Mahal at sunset, on safari in Ranthambore and on to the royal city of Jaipur, where we celebrate Holi together on Day 9. In the afternoon, we leave the color behind for a quiet visit to rescued elephants in the countryside and a farewell dinner on the farm.
The journey includes private transportation, private individual airport transfers, domestic flights within India, experienced local English-speaking guides, and Her Getaway Club accompaniment throughout. An optional 3-night extension to Rishikesh follows for those who want to stay longer.
Quick Answers
Is Holi safe for women traveling solo?
Yes, if you choose how you celebrate. A hosted celebration or a group of women with a local guide makes Holi relaxed and joyful, without the risks of the most crowded streets.
Does the color wash off?
Mostly, yes. Oiling your skin and hair beforehand helps a lot. Some tints can last a day or two, especially on nails and light hair.
Is Holi a good time to visit India?
Yes. March is warm and pleasant in Rajasthan, before the summer heat, and Holi adds one of the most joyful days of the year to any trip.
See the full North India itinerary, read Is India Safe for Women Traveling Solo?, or book a free call and ask us anything.