New Delhi: As Holi 2026 approaches on 4 March, the ancient city of Banaras pulses with anticipation for its most enchanting ritual: Doli Jatra. Imagine narrow galis alive with vibrant hues, the air thick with the scent of flowers and abeer, as palanquins or ‘dolis’ carrying sacred idols sway gently through the streets, drawing devotees into a mesmerising dance of faith and festivity. This unique celebration, blending Shiva’s mysticism with Krishna’s playfulness, transforms Kashi into a canvas of spiritual joy, where every splash of colour whispers tales of eternal love and renewal. Far beyond mere revelry, Doli Jatra in Banaras during Holi invites you to witness a tradition that has coloured souls for centuries, promising an unforgettable immersion in India’s living heritage.
Picture yourself amidst throngs of laughing pilgrims at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where the Ganga’s gentle lap meets the rhythm of dhol beats and chanted bhajans. In Banaras, Holi 2026’s Doli Jatra offers not just sights but soul-stirring experiences – from rooftop showers of gulal to shared thandai under starlit skies.
What is Doli Jatra in Banaras?
Doli Jatra, also known as Dol Jatra or Swing Festival, centres on ornate palanquins bearing idols of deities like Radha-Krishna or Shiva-Parvati, swung rhythmically to invoke divine blessings during Holi. In Banaras, this procession symbolises the playful union of the divine couple, mirroring Krishna’s leelas with Radha, while echoing Shiva’s triumphant return with Parvati on Rangbhari Ekadashi. Devotees believe participating cleanses the spirit, marking spring’s arrival with colours instead of mere chaos.
Historical roots of Doli Jatra
Rooted in Vaishnava lore, Doli Jatra commemorates Radha and Krishna’s divine love, with swings representing their joyful pastimes, a custom thriving in Kashi since medieval times. Banaras weaves in Shaivite essence too – legend holds Lord Shiva brought Parvati to the city post-gauna, sparking colour-filled celebrations that birthed this yatra. Over centuries, it evolved as Kashi’s Holi hallmark, blending bhakti with bonfires of Holika Dahan on 3 March 2026.
Doli Jatra 2026: Dates and schedule in Banaras
Holi festivities kick off with Rangbhari Ekadashi around 27 February, peaking at Holika Dahan on 3 March evening and Rangwali Holi on 4 March. Doli Jatra processions typically align with these, especially post-Ekadashi and Purnima, snaking from Assi to Dashashwamedh Ghats – plan early visits to avoid crowds. Expect extended celebrations till 5 March, with ghat aartis blending colours and chants.
Best places in Banaras to enjoy Doli Jatra
1. Dashashwamedh Ghat
Position yourself at this iconic riverfront for grand Doli Jatra processions, where ornate palanquins glide past Ganga’s waves amid thunderous dhol and cascading gulal from revellers. Witness the divine swing rituals blending with evening aarti, creating a hypnotic spectacle of colour, chant, and spirituality that defines Banaras Holi 2026.
2. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Dive into the heart at this sacred shrine, where dolis of Shiva-Parvati emerge for rhythmic swings, enveloped by fervent bhajans and tilak blessings from priests. The intimate darshans amid fragrant marigolds and abeer showers offer a profound devotional high, perfect for soaking Banaras’ unique Holi essence.
3. Assi Ghat
Feel the electric energy at Assi, alive with young crowds dancing around swinging idols, folk music, and rooftop colour barrages during Doli Jatra. It’s ideal for interactive fun – join sankirtan circles or thandai feasts, capturing vibrant moments that fuse modern revelry with Kashi’s timeless traditions.
4. Manikarnika Ghat
Embrace the profound at this cremation ghat for Masan Holi within Doli Jatra, where ash-mixed colours symbolise life’s transience amid pyre glows and quiet chants. Share philosophical exchanges with sadhus under moonlight, turning the experience into a deeply reflective pilgrimage highlight.
5. Godowlia Rooftop
Secure a vantage on Godowlia terraces overlooking chaotic galis, watching dolis weave through splash-happy mobs below during peak processions. Sip chai while dodging friendly gulal volleys, snapping epic panoramas that encapsulate Banaras Holi’s chaotic beauty and spiritual swing fever.
6. Dol Kalika Temple
Seek solace at this lesser-known haven near Lolark, where gentle Doli swings honour Radha-Krishna amid serene flower offerings and soft bhajans. Escape the frenzy for authentic rituals and prasad, gaining insider blessings that enrich your journey through Banaras’ layered Holi celebrations.
How to Enjoy Doli Jatra in Banaras
1. Immerse in ghat processions
Join the vibrant Doli Jatra parades at Dashashwamedh or Assi Ghat, where palanquins of Radha-Krishna sway to rhythmic dhol beats and bhajans. Surround yourself with laughing crowds showering herbal gulal, capturing the divine swing’s energy for an unforgettable Holi 2026 memory that blends devotion with playful chaos.
2. Savour traditional Thandai and Prasad
Relish aromatic thandai laced with almonds and saffron at roadside stalls, paired with malpua sweets offered during rituals. This fuels your spirit for hours of dancing and colour play, turning every sip into a festive toast to spring’s renewal in Banaras’ ancient galis.
3. Capture rooftop colour showers
Climb to rooftops near Godowlia for spectacular views of dolis passing below, drenched in abeer from enthusiastic revellers. Time your shots with the swing ceremonies for Instagram-worthy moments, ensuring you dodge friendly splashes while soaking in Kashi’s timeless Holi magic.
4. Participate in sacred swings and aarti
Assist in gently swinging the ornate dolis at temples like Kashi Vishwanath, receiving tilak blessings from priests. Conclude with evening Ganga Aarti amid fading colours, a soul-stirring ritual that deepens your connection to Banaras’ spiritual Holi traditions.
5. Explore nighttime masan holi vibes
Venture to Manikarnika Ghat post-sunset for the mystic ash-smeared Holi, reflecting on life’s cycle with quiet chants. Share stories with locals under starry skies, transforming a profound experience into a personal pilgrimage during Doli Jatra’s extended festivities.
6. Stay safe with local insights
Hire a knowledgeable guide to navigate crowded lanes, avoiding pickpockets while hitting prime spots. Wear comfortable whites, carry water, and respect elders by offering prasad – these tips ensure a joyous, hassle-free dive into Banaras’ Doli Jatra splendour.
Doli Jatra in Banaras during Holi 2026 promises a kaleidoscope of devotion that lingers long after colours fade. Dive into this timeless spectacle – let Kashi colour your soul!