The Rough Guide to the World's Best Festivals: World Party

Holi

Holi is one of the most vibrant Indian festivals. It has its origins in Hinduism, but revellers today span the entire country, regardless of their religion, caste or class. Although a springtime festival, and hence a celebration of the arrival of the harvest season, Holi is essentially about colour, and everyone gets involved, showering friends, family and passers-by with multi-coloured powders, and assaulting complete strangers with water balloons and spray guns. No one seems to mind; indeed, some people don’t even notice after indulging in bhang, an intoxicating substance culled from cannabis leaves, and usually mixed with seasonal food and drink, or made into chewy balls, or golees. Colour may be the common feature of Holi, but each region adds its own unique touch to the spectacle – from Mathura’s mock battles between the sexes to Phalen’s full-moon bonfire.

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Where?
Primarily North India, but West Bengal, Manipur, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh and Goa also join in the revelry. Mathura, in Uttar Pradesh, hosts perhaps the biggest Holi party.

When?
February or March

How Long?
4 days


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The Rough Guide World Party is a detailed guide to the world's best events and festivals. If you've ever thought of partying in Rio, throwing tomatoes in Spain or riding a camel in Pushkar, this guide is for you. Full-colour throughout with detailed accounts of each major festival and insider tips on how best to enjoy each one. The useful 'festival keys' will help you to find the perfect world festival, from the best music, food and arts festivals to long-established religious celebrations to less ancient raves and fruit-throwing events. read more >>