January 28, 2025
Barsana Holi: Lathmar Holi 2025

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January 28, 2025
CM Content Team
Lathmar Holi in Barsana is unlike any Holi celebration you've ever experienced. Nestled in the Braj region of Uttar Pradesh, Barsana comes alive with vibrant colours, playful traditions, and a spirit of devotion. This festival celebrates the divine love of Radha and Krishna. In 2025, Lathmar Holi in Barsana will be celebrated on March 8th, and the entire town will turn into a canvas of colourful joy.
If you’ve ever dreamed of celebrating Holi in a way that’s both authentic and extraordinary, Barsana is the place to be. Read on to learn everything you need to know about experiencing Barsana Holi this year.
Lathmar Holi is one of the most unique and exciting Holi celebrations in India. Held in the small town of Barsana, it is famous for its playful tradition where women “beat” men with sticks (called lathis) while men defend themselves with shields. The name "Lathmar" literally translates to "stick-beating," and this centuries-old ritual is a fun and vibrant way of celebrating Holi.
The festival has its roots in Hindu mythology and is closely connected to the love story of Radha and Krishna. It is said that Krishna, who lived in the nearby village of Nandgaon, would visit Barsana to tease Radha and her friends (the gopis). In return, Radha and her companions would chase Krishna away with sticks in a mock battle. Today, this playful act is re-enacted during Lathmar Holi Barsana, filling the town with laughter, joy, and devotion.
But Lathmar Holi is more than just fun and games. It is also a deeply symbolic celebration of love, equality, and togetherness. These unique rituals highlight the bond between Barsana and Nandgaon.
Lathmar Holi is celebrated in Barsana, a small but culturally rich town in Uttar Pradesh, about 50 km from Mathura and 150 km from Delhi. Barsana is known as the birthplace of Radha, making it one of the most sacred and vibrant spots in the Braj region.
The festivities begin in the Radha Rani Temple, perched on a hill overlooking Barsana. This is the only temple in India dedicated to Radha, and it serves as the heart of the celebration. Devotees gather here to take part in rituals, sing bhajans (devotional songs), and soak in the festive atmosphere.
On the following day, the festivities move to Nandgaon, the village where Krishna is believed to have spent his childhood. Together, Barsana and Nandgaon create an unforgettable two-day celebration of Lathmar Holi 2025, filled with colour, music, and traditions.
Experiencing Lathmar Holi 2025 in Barsana can be an unforgettable adventure, but it’s important to plan your trip carefully to make the most of it. Here are some practical tips to help you enjoy Barsana Holi to the fullest:
Barsana is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Agra, and Mathura. Here’s how you can get there:
By Air:
The nearest airport is Agra Airport, which is approximately 100 km away. From the airport, you can hire a private taxi or take a bus to Barsana. The journey takes around 2- 2.5 hours by road.
However, due to the low connectivity of the Agra Airport, it is advised to fly from Indira Gandhi International Airport Delhi, 130 km away and takes 3-3.5 hrs to reach.
By Train:
The closest railway station is Mathura Junction, located about 50 km from Barsana. Mathura is well-connected to cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra. From Mathura, you can take a taxi or a local bus, which will take approximately 1 hour to reach Barsana.
By Road:
Barsana is easily accessible by road via the Yamuna Expressway from Delhi.
To fully enjoy Barsana Holi, it’s recommended to arrive a day before the festival (March 7, 2025). This will give you enough time to settle in, explore the town, and prepare for the celebrations. You can also catch the morning rituals at the Radha Rani Temple, which marks the beginning of Lathmar Holi Barsana.
Barsana is known for its delicious regional food, and Holi is the perfect time to indulge in local delicacies. Be sure to stop by local stalls for an authentic taste of Barsana’s flavours. Some must-try items include:
Start your journey with the Radha Rani Temple, the centrepiece of Barsana and the heart of the Lathmar Holi celebrations. Perched atop Bhanugarh Hill, this temple is the only one dedicated to Radha in India. The temple’s serene atmosphere, stunning architecture, and breathtaking views of Barsana make it a must-visit.
Just a short drive from Barsana lies Nandgaon, the village believed to be the childhood home of Krishna. The day after Lathmar Holi in Barsana, Nandgaon hosts its own Holi festivities. Men from Barsana visit Nandgaon, where the women of Nandgaon take up the playful task of “beating” them with sticks.
If time allows, extend your trip to explore Mathura and Vrindavan, two towns deeply connected to the life of Krishna. Both towns are about 50–60 km from Barsana, making them ideal for day trips.
Located on the way to Vrindavan, Kusum Sarovar is a peaceful and picturesque water reservoir surrounded by beautifully carved sandstone steps and pavilions. According to legend, this is where Radha and Krishna often met. The serene ambience makes it a great spot for quiet reflection after the high-energy festivities of Holi.
Bring back a piece of Barsana Holi with you by shopping for local handicrafts, traditional jewellery, and vibrant fabrics from the local markets. Barsana and nearby towns are also known for selling colourful Holi powders and brass items, which make for unique souvenirs.
Lathmar Holi Barsana is more than just a festival—it’s an immersive cultural experience that brings the colourful stories of Radha and Krishna to life. From the playful stick tradition to the vibrant streets filled with gulal, the joyous chants of “Radhe Radhe,” and the welcoming spirit of the locals, every moment of Lathmar Holi 2025 will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Whether you’re drawn to the history and mythology behind the festival, the vibrant rituals, or the delicious food, Barsana offers something for everyone. This Holi, step out of the ordinary and dive into the extraordinary—plan your visit to Barsana Holi and witness the magic of Lathmar Holi 2025 firsthand.
Remember, Holi is not just about colours. It’s about celebrating love, togetherness, and the beauty of tradition. So pack your bags, bring your enthusiasm, and prepare to be part of one of India’s most
Located just 120 km from Barsana, the Saura Hotel in Agra is an excellent base for combining a cultural experience at Lathmar Holi 2025 with an exploration of Agra's historic sights. This hotel in Agra is conveniently close to the iconic Taj Mahal and Fatehpur Sikri, both within a short driving distance, making it perfect for sightseeing. The Saura Hotel offers top-notch amenities, including a spa, a selection of restaurants, a fitness centre, and an azure swimming pool, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
March 8th, 2025, in Barsana, Uttar Pradesh, beginning at the Radha Rani Temple.
Comfortable, old clothes that can get stained, with oil on skin and hair for protection.
Use eco-friendly colours, stay hydrated, protect personal belongings, and dress appropriately.
Local treats like gujiya, thandai, and kachori are available.
Accessible by road from Delhi and Agra. The nearest railway station is Mathura Junction.
Lively crowds, vibrant colours, and festive music and dances.
Yes, but ask for permission before taking close-up shots of participants.
Visit Nandgaon, Vrindavan, and local sites like Kusum Sarovar and the Radha Rani Temple.
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