Holika Dahan, Choti Holi and other interesting Holi rituals in Udaipur

Holi celebrations in Udaipur are known for their royal affair, and are no less than celebrations in Mathura and Vrindavan, where Holi is rejoiced with absolute zeal and welcome spring whole heartedly. Holi 2018 in Udaipur is definitely going to be one of the best celebrations in India. Gear up for a lot of excitement, and experience a royal Holi at The Royal City Palace, Udaipur.

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The royal family of Maharana of Udaipur itself take part in the celebrations, from Holika Dahan to sprinkling colours on each other. This grand affair includes foreign tourists, dignitaries, and guests who come to witness the event. The Maharana arrives in an elaborately decorated procession for the Holika Dahan ceremony, and this royal procession starts from Shambhu Niwas Palace and moves up to Manek Chowk royal residence.


Drums and folk dance performances along with beautifully decorated camels and elephants showcase the grandeur of royal procession. After the bonfire is lit, the celebrations go further on, followed by grand dinner, and fireworks.

Holi in Udaipur is entirely unique and fascinating; the king after all personally meets and greets all the royal guests, VIPs, and dignitaries who have been invited to the celebration by the royal Mewar family.
The next day, locals celebrate Holi, throughout the city with colours, balloons, and throwing water on the passerby, whereas at some old parts of Udaipur people play with dry colours. Also known for the occasion to prepare various kinds of traditional delicacies, Holi brings on endless options to munch. People do not just play with colours; they also cherish the festival by listening and dancing on their folk songs.


Udaipur, the city of palaces has a certain charm, and this attracts tourists from around the globe. Its artsy architecture and royal lineage speak to its visitors, and strikes a chord in their hearts. During Holi, most hotels host Holi parties, and arrange live Dj, colours, and refreshments to entertain visitors.

Places like City Palace Udaipur, Lake Palace Udaipur, Jag Mandir Palace and Maharana Pratap Memorial, Lake Pichola also become vibrant and lively during the festival time.

Holika Dahan ceremony details
The effigy of Holika is lit after a prayer and followed by local people doing ‘Gair’ traditional folk dance performed specially on the occasion.

Timings: 6:00PM Date: Thursday, March 1st, 2018

Dos and Don’ts during Holi festival time


-Play safe and use organic and non toxic colours.
-Avoid wearing new clothes, go for discarded old clothes.
-Apply coconut oil on your body and scalp before going out to play.
-Do not indulge in illegal and irresponsible activities like rash driving, drunken driving or damaging public properties.
- Do not force anyone to play Holi if they are reluctant. As some people are allergic to colours and may get some adverse reactions.
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