International Tourists Boost Holi Travel, Udaipur Sees 459% Surge Among Other Indian Cities

As Holi approaches, travellers are clearly in the mood for more than just colour play - they want a front-row seat to India's most iconic celebrations. Agoda's search data reveals that cities known for royal heritage, temple festivities, and community gatherings are seeing a sharp rise in interest this festive season. In 2026, holidaymakers are heading to places where Holi spills into streets, courtyards, lakeside promenades and centuries-old squares.

Tourists Flying To India To Celebrate Holi

Agoda's data shows rising interest from travellers in Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Japan and South Korea:

• Udaipur recorded a 459 per cent increase in searches from international markets.
• Jaipur saw a growth of over 191 per cent.

Rajasthan Leads With Major Search Spikes In Domestic Travel

Jaipur

Jaipur recorded one of the biggest increases, with accommodation searches rising 282 per cent compared to last year's Holi period. The city's palace-led festivities and its association with iconic landmarks such as Amer Fort continue to attract travellers seeking grand, traditional Holi celebrations.

Udaipur

Udaipur saw a 233 per cent surge in interest. The city's lakeside setting, heritage architecture and curated Holi gatherings hosted by several boutique and historic hotels contribute to its appeal for festive travellers.

Pushkar

Pushkar registered a 195 per cent rise in searches. Its community-centred Holi festivities, which unfold along Pushkar Lake and the town's 52 ghats, remain a key draw for those looking for lively yet culturally-rooted celebrations.

Temple Towns See Strong Demand For Holi Plans

Vrindavan

Vrindavan, known for flower Holi rituals, temple courtyards filled with bhajans and spiritual festivities, witnessed a 126 per cent increase in travel interest.

Mathura

Mathura recorded a 109 per cent rise, driven by visitors eager to experience Holi in the birthplace of Lord Krishna, where traditional street celebrations and temple rituals create some of India's most iconic festival scenes.

Southern And Eastern India Join The Holi Travel Trend

Hampi

Hampi in Karnataka registered a 128 per cent increase. Travellers are drawn to its open temple squares and UNESCO-listed ruins, which transform into vibrant gathering spaces during Holi.

Shantiniketan

In West Bengal, Shantiniketan, known for Basanta Utsav - a cultural celebration inspired by Tagore's traditions, saw a 43 per cent rise in interest. Music, dance and artistic performances shape its distinctive interpretation of Holi.

According to Gaurav Malik, Country Director, Indian Subcontinent and Indian Ocean Islands at Agoda, Holi has become a significant travel moment for both domestic and international visitors. He notes that India's cultural festivals are strengthening the country's global tourism appeal, with temple towns and heritage cities witnessing growing interest as travellers plan their holidays around local celebrations and traditional experiences.

About The Data

The analysis compares accommodation searches made during 28 December 2025 - 28 January 2026 (for check-ins between 28 February and 4 March 2026) with 12 December 2024 - 12 January 2025 (for check-ins between 12 and 16 March 2025).