Barsana Holi: Lathmar Holi 2025

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. 

What is Lathmar Holi?

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.

When and Where to Experience Lathmar Holi 2025

• Date: 08th March 2025, a few days before the festival of Holi
• Place:  Barsana, Uttar Pradesh

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.

What to Expect at Lathmar Holi, Barsana

• A Riot of Colors: As soon as you enter Barsana, you’ll find the air filled with clouds of gulal—brightly coloured powders in shades of pink, yellow, red, and green. The streets, temples, and people are covered in vibrant hues, symbolizing the spirit of Holi. Don’t be surprised if a friendly stranger dabs some colour on your face while shouting “Radhe Radhe!”—this is the warm and inclusive culture of Barsana Holi.
• The Playful Stick Tradition: The highlight of Lathmar Holi is the playful battle between men and women. In a re-enactment of Radha and Krishna’s playful encounters. Women of Barsana (dressed in traditional sarees) carry bamboo sticks (lathis) and chase Nandgaon men (dressed in white kurtas and turbans), who try to protect themselves with shields. The energy, laughter, and mock battles create a lively and unforgettable spectacle.
• Bhajans and Dhol Beats: At the heart of the celebrations is the Radha Rani Temple, where the day begins with devotional songs (bhajans) dedicated to Radha and Krishna. As the festival progresses, the rhythmic beats of dhols (Indian drums) and the singing of traditional songs echo through the streets, adding to the electrifying atmosphere.
• Makhan Matki Breaking Ceremony: One of the other highlights of Barsana Holi is the Makhan Matki (butter pot) tradition. In this event, men form human pyramids to reach and break a pot of butter that is hung high above the ground, recreating a scene from Krishna’s mischievous childhood. This is a lively and joyous event that gathers large crowds.
• A Feast for the Senses: No festival in India is complete without food, and Barsana Holi is no exception. You’ll find street stalls offering delicious local treats such as gujiya (a sweet dumpling), kachoris, and thandai (a spiced, milk-based drink). Don’t miss the opportunity to savour these delicacies while soaking in the festive spirit.
• Hospitality of the Locals: Barsana’s residents are known for their warmth and hospitality. During Holi, they welcome visitors with open arms, sharing stories, colours, and food. This connection with the locals is what makes Barsana Holi a truly immersive experience.

Practical Travel Tips and Info for Lathmar Holi 2025

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:

How to Reach Barsana

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. 

Safety Tips for Lathmar Holi

• Dress Comfortably: Wear light, breathable clothes that you don’t mind getting stained with colour. Cotton kurtas or casual T-shirts are ideal.
• Protect Your Skin and Hair: Apply coconut oil or sunscreen to protect your skin from the colours. Cover your hair with a scarf or cap.
• Use Eco-Friendly Colours: Stick to natural, non-toxic colours to ensure a safe celebration for yourself and others.
• Stay Hydrated: Carry a water bottle and drink plenty of water throughout the day. The festival can get intense, so staying hydrated is essential.
• Take Care of Your Belongings: Avoid carrying valuables like expensive jewellery or large amounts of cash. Use a small, secure bag to carry essentials.

Festival Etiquette

• Respect the Traditions: While the festival is playful, remember that it holds deep cultural and religious significance for the locals. Participate respectfully and follow the community’s lead during rituals.
• Be Prepared for Crowds: Lathmar Holi attracts thousands of visitors, so expect crowded streets and packed temples. Stay patient and enjoy the energy of the crowd.
• Ask Before Clicking Photos: While photography is generally welcomed, always ask for permission before taking close-up shots of locals.

Best Time to Arrive

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.

Food to Try During Lathmar Holi

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:

• Gujiya: A sweet dumpling stuffed with khoya and dry fruits.
• Thandai: A cooling milk-based drink infused with spices and dry fruits, sometimes with a hint of bhang (optional).
• Kachori: A deep-fried savoury snack filled with spiced lentils.

Things to Do in and Around Barsana

Visit the Radha Rani Temple: 

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.

Experience Nandgaon’s Holi Celebrations:

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.

Explore Mathura and Vrindavan:

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.

In Mathura:

1. Visit the Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, the birthplace of Krishna, and immerse yourself in its spiritual energy.
2. Witness the Yamuna Aarti on the ghats, a serene evening ritual of lamps floating on the river.

In Vrindavan:

1. Explore the Banke Bihari Temple, known for its enchanting aura and devotion to Krishna.
2. Don’t miss the grand celebrations at the ISKCON Temple, where Holi is celebrated with music and dance.

Visit the Kusum Sarovar:

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.

Shop for Souvenirs:

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.

Conclusion

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 

Stay with Club Mahindra

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.