Holi—the festival of colors, joy, and togetherness—is one of the most vibrant celebrations in India. But while it’s all about fun, traveling during Holi requires mindfulness and responsibility. Whether you’re a tourist or a pilgrim, here are some things you should not do to ensure a respectful, safe, and enjoyable experience.
What Should We Not Do During Holi While Traveling?
1. Don’t Disrespect Local Traditions
Holi is celebrated differently across India—Vrindavan’s Phoolon Ki Holi (flower Holi) is vastly different from Lathmar Holi in Barsana, where women playfully beat men with sticks. Some places focus on rituals, while others are all about colors and dancing. Learn about local customs before joining in to ensure you respect the cultural significance.
2. Don’t Force Anyone to Play
Not everyone enjoys Holi, and consent is key. Some locals may choose not to participate due to religious, personal, or health reasons. Never throw colors or water on unwilling participants, tourists, animals, or sacred places. Always ask before engaging.
3. Avoid Chemical-Based Colors
Many cheap Holi colors contain harmful chemicals that can cause skin allergies, eye irritation, and environmental damage. Stick to organic, eco-friendly colors or traditional natural options like turmeric, beetroot, and sandalwood.
4. Don’t Litter the Streets
Water balloons, plastic packets of color, and empty bottles create a huge mess post-Holi. Be mindful of your waste—use dustbins, avoid single-use plastics, and leave no trace behind.
5. Avoid Rowdy Crowds & Unsafe Areas
Some places get chaotic during Holi, with over-enthusiastic crowds leading to uncomfortable or unsafe situations, especially for women and solo travelers. Stick to family-friendly celebrations or organized Holi events if you’re in a new city.
6. Don’t Wear Inappropriate Clothing
Holi celebrations can get wild, and wet clothes tend to become see-through. Opt for modest, dark-colored, or layered clothing to avoid unwanted attention. Carry a scarf or dupatta for extra coverage if needed.
7. Avoid Wasting Water
Traditional Holi was played with dry colors and minimal water, but modern celebrations have become water-intensive. Given the water scarcity in many places, avoid excessive use of water balloons, pichkaris (water guns), or unnecessary wastage.
8. Don’t Drink & Misbehave
Many Holi celebrations include bhang (a cannabis-infused drink) or alcohol, but overindulgence often leads to unruly behavior. Know your limits, respect others, and ensure your fun doesn’t come at the cost of someone else’s discomfort.
9. Don’t Forget to Protect Your Belongings
Crowds mean higher chances of pickpocketing or losing valuables. Carry only essentials, keep cash and phone in a waterproof pouch, and avoid wearing expensive jewelry.
10. Don’t Overlook Safety & Hygiene
Use skin and hair oil before playing to prevent color from sticking, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes, and stay hydrated. If traveling in a Holi-heavy destination, book accommodations in advance and check safety measures.
Holi is an incredible festival, but it’s our responsibility as travelers to celebrate it mindfully. By being respectful, environmentally conscious, and aware of personal and public boundaries, we can ensure that Holi remains a festival of joy for everyone.
So go ahead, celebrate responsibly, and make memories—without leaving a negative impact! 🌸🎨✨
