Holi at Banke Bihari Temple

When Holi begins at the temple

Historical record The temple's festival calendar marks Aamla Ekadashi, the Ekadashi of the bright fortnight of Phalgun, as the day "colourful Holi celebrations start". It lists the date for 2027 as 18 March 2027. Source: Official temple festival calendar (opens in a new tab) This Ekadashi is also widely called Rangbhari Ekadashi.

What is widely described

Secondary sources Secondary and devotional sources describe colour play inside the temple during these days, with colour made from tesu (palash) flowers and gulal thrown over the crowd, and petals showered on devotees. We have not observed this ourselves and have not found a primary source describing the details, so treat them as descriptive rather than confirmed.

The wider Braj season

Secondary sources Across Braj, Holi celebrations take place in different villages and temples over several days, including the well-known Lathmar Holi of Barsana and Nandgaon. Dates follow the lunar calendar and are set locally each year. Check the current year's local announcements rather than relying on lists copied between websites.

Staying safe

• Wear clothes you do not mind ruining. Colours can stain permanently.
• Protect your eyes. Keep valuables to a minimum. The temple separately asks visitors not to carry phones or electronic gadgets. Source: Official temple do's and don'ts (opens in a new tab)
• Stay with your group and agree a meeting point outside.
• Book accommodation early. Vrindavan is busy throughout the Holi period.

Read our visit planning guide for travel and safety advice.