Holi Abroad: Best Destinations to Celebrate India's Festival of Colours Internationally

Holi Goes Global: The Festival of Colours Abroad

Holi — the Hindu festival of colours celebrated in February–March — has transcended India's borders to become one of the world's most beloved and visually exhilarating festivals. Thanks to the Indian diaspora and growing global curiosity about Indian culture, Holi is now celebrated with great fanfare in Mauritius, Nepal, the Caribbean, UK, USA, and many other countries. Indian group travellers can now plan international group tours specifically timed around Holi celebrations abroad.

Nepal: The Most Authentic Holi Outside India

Nepal celebrates Holi with the same religious fervour as India — and since Nepal's Hindu temples are open to all (unlike some in India), the celebrations around Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu and Durbar Squares across the country are particularly authentic. Nepal celebrates Holi one day earlier than India. Pokhara's lakeside Holi is especially famous among backpackers and travellers. No visa is required for Indian passport holders.

Mauritius: Holi in a Tropical Indian Ocean Paradise

Mauritius has one of the world's largest Indian-origin populations (68% of the country), and Holi (locally called Phagwa) is a major national festival. Celebrated with traditional colour throwing, bhojpuri music, traditional sweets, and community processions, Holi in Mauritius combines Indian culture with the island's stunning tropical beauty. Combining Mauritius Holi with a beach holiday makes for an extraordinary group tour.

Trinidad & Tobago: Phagwa and the Caribbean Holi

Trinidad's Indo-Trinidadian population celebrates Phagwa with extraordinary enthusiasm — processions, Indian music, and colour play in the streets of south Trinidad. This is an extraordinary opportunity to experience both Holi and the unique Indo-Caribbean culture in a Caribbean island setting. The Trinidad Holi celebration is officially recognized and attracts tourists from across the world.

Bali: The Spirit of Colours in Indonesia

Bali hosts Holi festival events at major resorts and tourist areas, particularly in Seminyak and Ubud, during the Holi season. While not a traditional Balinese festival, the strong Indian community and tourism-driven Holi events make Bali an exciting option for group tours that want Holi celebrations alongside Balinese temple culture and beaches. Several Bali resorts host large-scale Holi colour events.

Europe and UK: Holi Festival of Colours Events

The UK, Germany, Netherlands, and other European cities host organized Holi Festival of Colours events in March. London's Holi One, Berlin's Holi Festival, and Amsterdam's events attract tens of thousands of participants. For Indian group tours visiting Europe in March, attending a local Holi event adds a unique cultural twist to the itinerary.

How to Plan a Holi Group Tour Abroad

Holi falls on the full moon of Phalguna (February–March) — check the exact date each year as it varies. Plan your international group tour 3–6 months in advance. Pack white clothes (colour shows up best), carry sealed plastic bags for phones and valuables, and wear protective eyewear during colour play. TravelBuddy offers customised Holi-timed group tours to Nepal, Mauritius, and Bali.