Pushkar Holi 2026 Survival Kit: 15 Must-Have Items to Pack

Published on February 15, 2026

What Makes Pushkar Holi 2026 So Special? (Introduction)
When is Holi in Pushkar 2026? (Dates)
Why Pushkar is the Best Place for Holi in Rajasthan 2026(Why Go)
The 15 Must-Have Items for Your Pushkar Holi Survival Kit(Main Kit)
Quick Packing Summary
Tips for Choosing the Right Pushkar Holi Tour Package(Package Guide)
How to Stay Safe During Pushkar Holi Celebration(Safety Tips)
Best Things to Do on a Pushkar Holi Tour(Activities)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Final Thoughts(Conclusion)

1. What Makes Pushkar Holi 2026 So Special?

If you have ever dreamed of celebrating Holi in the most magical, vibrant, and joyful way possible, then Pushkar Holi 2026 is the experience you cannot miss. Every year, thousands of travellers from India and across the world come together to celebrate Holi in Pushkar, a small but incredibly beautiful town in Rajasthan.

Pushkar is not just any town. It is home to the famous Brahma Temple and the sacred Pushkar Lake. Add a riot of colours, Rajasthani folk music, dancing, bhang (a traditional drink), and the warm energy of thousands of happy people, and you have an experience that no other place in India can offer.

Pushkar Holi Rajasthan 2026 is expected to be bigger and more organised than ever before, with many tour operators offering exciting Pushkar Holi tour package that cover accommodation, guided tours, and exclusive festival access. Whether you come alone, with friends, or as a couple, Holi in Pushkar is a celebration of life, love, and colour.

what makes pushkar holi 2026 so special

2. When is Holi in Pushkar 2026?

Holi in Pushkar 2026 will be celebrated on 2nd and 3rd March 2026. The main celebration (Dhulandi) falls on 3rd March 2026, while Holika Dahan takes place on the evening of 2nd March 2026.

If you are planning a Pushkar Holi tour 2026, it is strongly recommended to arrive at least 1-2 days before the festival. Accommodation fills up very fast in Pushkar during Holi, so early booking through a reliable Pushkar Holi package is a smart move.

3. Why Pushkar is the Best Place for Holi in Rajasthan 2026

Rajasthan is famous for its royal culture, forts, and grand festivals. But when it comes to Holi, Pushkar stands out from every other city in Rajasthan. Here is why the Pushkar Holi celebration is considered the best:

The unique backdrop of Pushkar Lake and ancient temples makes the colour celebration even more beautiful and memorable.
International tourists and backpackers add a global energy to the festival, making it a truly multicultural experience.
The bazaars of Pushkar come alive with special Holi sweets, flowers, and natural colours for sale.
Many guesthouses and hotels organise rooftop Holi parties with live music, which is a highlight of any Pushkar Holi tour.
Pushkar is a very safe and traveller-friendly town, making it perfect even for solo women travellers and families with children.
Tour operators offer well-organised Pushkar Holi tour packages from all major Indian cities, including Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Mumbai.

4. The 15 Must-Have Items for Your Pushkar Holi Survival Kit

15 must have survival kit for pushkar holi tour

Now comes the most important part of this guide. Whether you are on a budget Pushkar Holi package or a premium Pushkar Holi tour 2026, packing the right things makes all the difference. Here are the 15 items you absolutely must carry:

Item 1: Old Clothes You Don't Mind Staining

This is the number one rule of Holi in Pushkar. Do not wear anything new or expensive. Pack a set of old, comfortable clothes, preferably white or light-coloured, as the colours show up beautifully on them. Cotton is the best fabric because it is easy to wash and dries quickly in Rajasthan's warm weather. Many people buy cheap white kurtas in Pushkar market for just this occasion.

Pro Tip: Carry at least 2-3 extra sets so you can change after the celebration and enjoy the rest of your Pushkar Holi tour comfortably.

Item 2: Waterproof Sunscreen (SPF 50+)

Holi celebrations can last for 4-6 hours under the Rajasthan sun, which can be very harsh in March. A good waterproof sunscreen with SPF 50+ is non-negotiable. Apply it generously on all exposed skin at least 20 minutes before stepping out. Reapply every 2 hours if you can.

Pro Tip: Apply sunscreen as your last step before heading out for the Pushkar Holi celebration, even on a cloudy day.

Item 3: Coconut or Mustard Oil

This is one of the oldest Holi tricks in the book, and it truly works. Apply a generous layer of coconut oil or mustard oil on your skin and hair before playing Holi. This creates a protective barrier that prevents chemical colours from sticking deep into your skin. It also makes washing off the colours much easier after the celebration.

Pro Tip: Carry a small travel bottle of coconut oil in your bag to reapply if needed during the Pushkar Holi 2026 celebration.

Item 4: Waterproof Phone Pouch or Ziplock Bags

Your phone, money, and important documents are your most valuable items during the Pushkar Holi tour. Water balloons, gulal (coloured powder), and wet colours can destroy your phone within seconds. A waterproof phone pouch is cheap and saves you a lot of trouble. Also, keep extra ziplock bags for your wallet, camera batteries, and travel documents.

Pro Tip: Keep a basic backup phone if possible during Holi in Pushkar, and avoid carrying expensive gadgets to the main celebration grounds.

Item 5: Reusable Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is very important during the Pushkar Holi celebration, especially in the warm March weather of Rajasthan. Carry a large, reusable water bottle and keep drinking water throughout the day. Avoid drinking water from unknown sources, and prefer sealed bottled water or water from your hotel.

Pro Tip: Most Pushkar Holi tour packages include hotels with filtered drinking water. Ask your tour operator for details.

Item 6: Natural/Herbal Holi Colours

One of the best things you can do before attending Pushkar Holi 2026 is to buy natural, herbal Holi colours. Chemical colours can cause serious skin irritation, rashes, and eye problems. Natural colours made from flowers, turmeric, and herbs are available in the Pushkar market and are much safer for your skin. They are also eco-friendly and kind to Pushkar Lake.

Pro Tip: Buy your herbal colours from the shops near the main bazaar in Pushkar. Many Pushkar Holi package operators also arrange natural colour kits for their guests.

Item 7: Good Quality Sunglasses or Safety Goggles

Eye protection is extremely important during Holi in Pushkar. Colour powders and water can irritate or injure your eyes if you are not careful. A pair of wrap-around sunglasses or cheap safety goggles gives you good protection while playing Holi without worrying about eye injuries. Avoid contact lenses on Holi day as colours can get trapped under them.

Pro Tip: Keep a small bottle of eye drops in your bag. If colour accidentally gets into your eyes, flush immediately with clean water and use eye drops.

Item 8: Bandana, Scarf, or Dupatta

A bandana or a light cotton scarf serves multiple purposes during your Pushkar Holi tour 2026. You can use it to cover your hair and protect your scalp from colours, wrap it around your nose and mouth to avoid inhaling colour powder, or use it as a quick wipe for your face. Colours in your lungs are never a good idea, so this small item is a big deal.

Pro Tip: Carry 2-3 bandanas or dupattas and soak one in water before covering your nose during intense colour-throwing moments.

Item 9: Small First Aid Kit

Any good Holi in Pushkar survival kit must include a basic first aid kit. Pack antihistamine tablets for allergic reactions to colours, antiseptic cream for any small cuts or scratches, eye drops, pain relief cream for muscle soreness after dancing, and band-aids. If you are booking a Pushkar Holi package, ask if your hotel has a doctor on call.

Pro Tip: If you have sensitive skin or known allergies, consult your doctor before your Pushkar Holi tour 2026 and carry any prescribed medication with you.

Item 10: Flip Flops or Old Sandals

Never wear new or expensive shoes to the Pushkar Holi celebration. The ground will be covered in coloured water, mud, and powder. Your feet will get completely dyed, and your shoes will likely be ruined. A pair of cheap flip flops or old sandals is the perfect footwear. They are easy to wash and dry quickly.

Pro Tip: Many people play Holi barefoot in Pushkar, which is absolutely fine. Just watch out for stones and broken glass on the ground.

Item 11: Cash in Small Denominations

Pushkar is a small town, and many shops, stalls, and local vendors near the Holi celebration areas work on cash only. ATMs can have long queues during the festival. Carry enough cash in small notes before your Pushkar Holi tour 2026 so you can buy colours, food, drinks, and souvenirs without any hassle.

Pro Tip: Keep your cash in a waterproof pouch or ziplock bag to protect it from coloured water during the Holi celebration.

Item 12: Dry Shampoo and Hair Care Products

Colours can be very stubborn in hair. Carry a dry shampoo for quick fixes, a good conditioner to help loosen colour particles, and a wide-toothed comb to gently detangle coloured hair after the celebration. Avoid washing your hair too roughly right after Holi as colours can cause tangles and breakage.

Pro Tip: Braid or tie your hair tightly before going to Pushkar Holi 2026. Less surface area means less colour gets stuck.

Item 13: Light Jacket or Stole for Evenings

While Pushkar days in March are warm and sunny, evenings can get surprisingly cool. After the main Holi celebration in Pushkar is over, you will want to explore the ghats, temples, and Pushkar bazaar. A light jacket, stole, or shawl is perfect for comfortable evening sightseeing as part of your Pushkar Holi tour.

Pro Tip: March evenings in Pushkar average around 14-16 degrees Celsius, so a light layer is enough to keep you warm and comfortable.

Item 14: Snacks and Energy Bars

Holi in Pushkar is a physically energetic celebration. You will be dancing, running, throwing colours, and enjoying for hours. Your body needs fuel. Carry easy, portable snacks like energy bars, dry fruits, biscuits, and nuts in a small waterproof bag. This keeps your energy up and prevents you from feeling dizzy or weak during the celebration.

Pro Tip: Be careful with Pushkar's famous bhang (cannabis-infused drink). It is very strong. If you choose to try it, do so in very small amounts and never on an empty stomach.

Item 15: A Positive Attitude and an Open Mind

This might not fit in your bag, but it is truly the most important thing to carry for your Pushkar Holi tour 2026. Holi in Pushkar is loud, chaotic, joyful, and sometimes overwhelming. Go with an open heart, respect local customs, be kind to fellow travellers, protect your personal boundaries, and be ready to make memories that will last a lifetime.

Pro Tip: Learn a few basic Holi greetings in Hindi like 'Holi Hai!' and 'Bura Na Maano, Holi Hai!' to connect with locals and make your Pushkar Holi celebration even more special.

pushkar holi tour package from delhi

5. Quick Packing Summary Table

Here is a handy reference table of all 15 items in your Pushkar Holi 2026 Survival Kit:

#	Item	Why You Need It	Quick Tip
1	Old White Clothes	Main festival outfit; colours look vibrant	Buy a cheap kurta in Pushkar
2	Waterproof Sunscreen SPF 50+	Protect skin from the Rajasthan sun	Apply 20 min before stepping out
3	Coconut/Mustard Oil	Prevents colour from sticking to skin	Apply to hair and body
4	Waterproof Phone Pouch	Protects the phone from water and colours	Keep cash in a ziplock, too
5	Reusable Water Bottle	Stay hydrated in the March heat	Prefer sealed/hotel water
6	Natural Herbal Colours	Safer for skin and the environment	Buy at Pushkar bazaar
7	Sunglasses/Safety Goggles	Eye protection from colour powder	Avoid contact lenses
8	Bandana or Scarf	Protect hair and avoid inhaling colour	Soak in water for better protection
9	Basic First Aid Kit	Handle allergic reactions and minor injuries	Include antihistamines and eye drops
10	Flip Flops/Old Sandals	Protect feet from coloured mud	Cheap is best for Holi
11	Cash (Small Notes)	Many vendors are cash-only in Pushkar	Keep in a waterproof pouch
12	Dry Shampoo & Conditioner	Easier colour removal from hair	Tie your hair before the celebration
13	Light Jacket/Stole	Cool evenings at Pushkar	Great for ghats visit at night
14	Snacks & Energy Bars	Stay energised during long celebrations	Eat before trying bhang
15	Positive Attitude	The most important thing of all!	Respect locals and enjoy!

6. Tips for Choosing the Right Pushkar Holi Tour Package

With Pushkar Holi 2026 approaching fast, many travel companies are already offering different types of Pushkar Holi tour 2026. Here is how to choose the best one for your needs:

Duration: Most Pushkar Holi packages range from 2 nights/3 days to 4 nights/5 days. Choose based on your available holidays.
Inclusions: Look for packages that include accommodation, breakfast, Holi colour kit, guided tour of Pushkar, and airport or railway station transfers.
Accommodation Type: Options range from budget guesthouses to heritage havelis and luxury hotels. Decide your comfort level before booking a Pushkar Holi tour package.
Group vs Private: Group Pushkar Holi tours are more budget-friendly and social. Private Pushkar Holi tour packages offer more flexibility and personalised service.
Departure City: Most tour operators offer Pushkar Holi tours from Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Ahmedabad. Choose based on where you are travelling from.
Reviews and Reputation: Always read customer reviews before booking a Pushkar Holi 2026 tour package. Check Google reviews and travel forums for honest feedback.
Cancellation Policy: Since the March weather can be unpredictable, choose a Pushkar Holi package with a fair cancellation or reschedule policy.

7. How to Stay Safe During Pushkar Holi Celebration

how to stay safe in pushkar holi package

Pushkar is one of the safest places in Rajasthan for travellers, but like any large festival, the Pushkar Holi celebration requires some safety awareness. Here are the key safety tips:

Always travel with a group or at least one companion during the main Holi celebration. This is especially important for solo women travellers.
Keep your phone, money, and valuables in a waterproof pouch inside your clothes, not in a bag that can be snatched in the crowd.
Do not accept food or drinks from unknown people at the Pushkar Holi celebration. The tradition of bhang is common, but it can be added to food and drinks without your knowledge.
Stay in the main, well-lit, and crowded areas of Pushkar during Holi. Avoid isolated lanes and dark alleys.
If someone makes you uncomfortable during the Holi in Pushkar celebration, move to a crowd immediately and alert your tour guide or hotel staff.
Keep the contact number of your hotel, your Pushkar Holi tour package operator, and emergency services saved in your phone before you start celebrating.
Know the location of the nearest clinic or hospital in Pushkar in case of any medical emergency during the Holi celebration.

8. Best Things to Do on a Pushkar Holi Tour

best things to do in pushkar holi

Your Pushkar Holi tour 2026 is not just about playing with colours. Pushkar is a town full of culture, spirituality, and charm. Here is what to add to your itinerary:

Visit Brahma Temple: One of the very few Brahma temples in the world. It is a deeply spiritual and beautiful experience, especially in the early morning before the Holi celebration starts.
Walk the Pushkar Ghats: The 52 ghats around Pushkar Lake are peaceful and stunning, especially at sunrise and sunset. This is a highlight of any Pushkar Holi tour.
Explore Pushkar Bazaar: Shop for handmade jewellery, Rajasthani fabrics, camel leather goods, and herbal Holi colours. Bargaining is expected and part of the fun.
Try Local Food: Pushkar is known for its vegetarian food scene. Do not miss malpua (sweet pancakes), dal baati churma, and lassi. Many Pushkar Holi package itineraries include food tours.
Camel and Horse Rides: A short camel or horse ride around Pushkar gives you a stunning view of the town and the Aravalli hills. Perfect before or after the Holi celebration.
Attend Holika Dahan: The bonfire ceremony on the evening before Dhulandi is a powerful and beautiful ritual that sets the tone for the Pushkar Holi 2026 celebration.
Rooftop Holi Parties: Many hotels and guesthouses organise special rooftop Holi parties with live Rajasthani folk music, DJs, and dancing. A must-do during your Pushkar Holi tour 2026.

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the best time to book a Pushkar Holi tour package?

You should book your Pushkar Holi tour package at least 2-3 months in advance, ideally by December 2025. Holi in Pushkar 2026 falls on 2nd-3rd March 2026, and hotels and tour packages fill up extremely fast. Early booking also gets you better prices and more accommodation options.

Q2. Is Pushkar Holi safe for solo women travellers?

Yes, Pushkar is generally considered one of the safer towns in Rajasthan for solo women travellers. However, it is always advisable to stay in crowded areas during the Holi celebration, travel with a group if possible, wear conservative clothing, and be aware of your surroundings. Booking a reputed Pushkar Holi tour package with guided support is recommended for added safety.

Q3. What are the colours used in the Pushkar Holi celebration?

Traditionally, natural herbal colours (gulal) made from flowers, turmeric, and plant extracts are used in the Pushkar Holi 2026 celebration. These are available in Pushkar's local market. However, some people still use synthetic colours, which is why eye and skin protection is important. It is highly recommended to buy and use only natural colours during Holi in Pushkar.

Q4. What should I avoid bringing to the Pushkar Holi celebration?

Avoid bringing expensive phones, cameras, or jewellery to the main Holi celebration ground. Do not bring leather bags or shoes as they can be permanently stained. Avoid wearing contact lenses, and do not carry large amounts of cash. Keep a basic waterproof pouch with only essentials while celebrating Holi in Pushkar, Rajasthan, 2026.

Q5. How far is Pushkar from Jaipur and Delhi for a Holi tour?

Pushkar is approximately 150 km from Jaipur (a 3-hour drive by road) and approximately 400 km from Delhi (a 7-8 hour drive by road or a 6-hour drive by train to Ajmer, followed by a 15-minute drive). Most Pushkar Holi tour packages from Delhi and Jaipur include comfortable transport as part of the itinerary.

Q6. Is bhang legal in Pushkar during Holi?

Bhang (cannabis-infused drink) has a long traditional association with Holi celebrations across India, including Pushkar. In Rajasthan, bhang is sold in licensed government shops. While it is a cultural part of the Pushkar Holi celebration, it is very strong and should be consumed with extreme caution, in very small quantities, and never on an empty stomach. Many travellers choose to skip it altogether, which is perfectly fine.

Q7. What types of accommodations are available in Pushkar for Holi 2026?

Pushkar offers a wide range of accommodation options for Pushkar Holi 2026, from budget backpacker hostels and cosy guesthouses to mid-range hotels and luxury heritage havelis. Many Pushkar Holi package options include accommodation with breakfast, rooftop access, and easy walking distance to the main Holi celebration areas. Booking early is essential as Pushkar fills up completely during Holi.

Q8. Are children allowed at the Pushkar Holi celebration?

Yes, Holi in Pushkar is a family-friendly celebration, and children are welcome. However, it is advisable to keep young children away from the most crowded and intense colour-throwing areas. Natural herbal colours are safer for children's sensitive skin. Many Pushkar Holi tour packages for families include special arrangements for children with safer, less crowded celebration zones.

Q9. What is included in a typical Pushkar Holi tour package?

A standard Pushkar Holi tour package typically includes accommodation (2-4 nights), daily breakfast, Holi colour kit, guided sightseeing of Pushkar (Brahma Temple, Pushkar Lake, Pushkar bazaar), transfers from Jaipur or Delhi, and sometimes a cultural evening with Rajasthani folk music and dance. Premium Pushkar Holi packages may also include camel rides, cooking classes, and exclusive rooftop Holi party access.

Q10. How many days should I plan for a Pushkar Holi tour 2026?

A minimum of 3 days and 2 nights is recommended for a Pushkar Holi tour 2026. This gives you one full day before Holi to explore Pushkar and attend Holika Dahan, one full day for the main Holi celebration, and half a day for relaxed sightseeing before departure. If you want to explore more of Rajasthan, a 5-day Pushkar Holi Rajasthan 2026 tour covering Ajmer and Jaipur is an excellent option.

Final Thoughts

Pushkar Holi 2026 is going to be an absolutely incredible experience, and with the right preparation, you will make the most of every colourful, joyful moment. Whether you are booking a budget Pushkar Holi tour package or a luxury Pushkar Holi 2026 experience, the 15 items in this survival kit are your best friends for a safe, fun, and unforgettable celebration.

Holi in Pushkar is not just a festival. It is a feeling, an energy, a memory you carry with you forever. From the sacred ghats and the ancient Brahma Temple to the riot of colours and the warmth of Rajasthani people, Pushkar Holi Rajasthan 2026 promises to be a celebration that touches your soul.

So pack your bags, grab your herbal colours, put on that old white kurta, and get ready for the festival of your life. Happy Holi!

Holi Hai!