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Once a year, the ancient city of Anandpur Sahib in Punjab transforms into the world's most extraordinary display of Sikh martial heritage. Hola Mohalla, celebrated the day after Holi, draws hundreds of thousands of devotees and travellers from across the globe to witness fearless Nihang warriors performing breathtaking horsemanship, mock battles, and centuries-old martial arts demonstrations. For international visitors, this is India like nowhere else on the tourist trail: raw, spiritual, deeply human, and utterly unforgettable.
This carefully crafted 11-day guided tour combines the Hola Mohalla festival experience with India's most iconic spiritual landmarks - the Golden Temple of Amritsar, Old Delhi's Mughal heritage, and the serene Himalayan town of Dharamshala, home of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. A cultural journey that changes how you see the world.
Most of you have heard of Holi - India's famous festival of colours. Hola Mohalla is something completely different, and far less known outside India.
Established in 1680 by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru, Hola Mohalla was created as a response to Holi - a day not of colour play, but of martial readiness, community strength, and spiritual devotion. For three days in March, Anandpur Sahib becomes the stage for:
For international visitors arriving with no prior knowledge of Sikhism, this festival is a profound education in one of the world's most open, welcoming, and misunderstood religions.
Upon arrival at Delhi, you will be greeted by our associate in the arrival hall, will escort you to the hotel. Tour starts with the visit to Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib in Chandni Chowk, where the ninth Sikh Guru Tegh Bahadur was executed for refusing to accept the Islam. Afterwards drive to Red Fort which was the residence of Mughal emperors for about 200 years until 1857. Later you will visit the world's tallest minaret obtaining spiral stairs of 379 steps – Qutab Minar. Day ends up Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, the most famous Gurudwara of Delhi. Overnight, stay at hotel.
Boarding Morning train to Chandigarh. On arrival, check-in at hotel and later proceed to sightseeing including. Chandigarh has a variety of tourist attractions including Rock Garden or Nek Chand Rock Garden is an incredible sculpture garden complex which is comprised of interlinked courtyards dotted with sculptures made of residential and industrial waste. Walk around the garden that sprawls over 40 acres of land. Also, explore the Zakir Hussain Rose Garden, which is considered as one of the greatest of its kind in Asia. The garden spreads over 30 acres of land and houses around 825 types of roses. Later, visit Sukhna Lake, a beautiful artificial water body that has the Garden of Silence within it. Overnight, stay at hotel.
After breakfast drive to Anandpur Sahib, the main site for celebrating Holla Mohalla Festival, situated around 85 km (approximately one hour) from Chandigarh. This exclusive drive is meticulously planned through nature's path. You can enjoy the panorama of mustard farms blooming with small yellow flowers provide many opportunities for photography. Anandpur Sahib, home to over forty Gurudwaras. During Holla Mohalla festival for seven days in the month of March the vibrancy of the atmosphere easily draws you in which is hard to resist. This evening, upon arrival, spend some time at leisure before exploring the nearby Gurudwara. Overnight, stay in tent.
Present at Gurudwara during morning prayer. The soothing sound of Guru Granth Sahib at the Durbar followed by kirtans (hymns), along with the Langar food service for breakfast. You are welcome to join the devotees for breakfast, which is freshly prepared meal in the kitchen by volunteers who believe that doing "Seva" (service) is part of their duty. Return to your hotel after breakfast and spend whole day exploring the town, the other Gurudwaras and historical sights, each of them obtaining historical tales to be discovered. At every Gurudwara, there is performance of beautiful folk poetry from the region, mock battles by the Sikhs showing their martial skills, and Langar stalls everywhere serving food. Overnight, stay in tent.
Today also take part in the revelries. You can join throng of cheerful people for spontaneous dance on the beat of drums; gets tantalized by the colorful dresses of Nihang warriors, children, women and men. Participate at one of the kitchens cooking food with the other volunteers. The teaching of the Sikhs saints have always emphasized the spirit of participating in and giving back to the community. Today, you can choose from many activities available and tailor your day to suit your tastes. In way of your chosen activity, we guarantee you will create memories for a lifetime. Overnight, stay in tent.
After breakfast, drive to Amritsar, built around the famous Golden Temple, i.e., Gurudwara Harmandir Sahib and owes its name to sarovar (holy lake) of the temple called Amritsar, "Pool of the Nectar of Immortality". Upon arrival check-in at hotel and later visit the Golden Temple. Founded in 1589 by Guru Arjan Singh (the fifth Sikh Guru), Harmandir Sahib has four entrances representing the four directions that symbolize its openness for all. The Muslim Sufi Saint, Sai Mirwas was invited to lay its foundation stone. Stay at the temple until dark when the complex is illuminated by a thousand fairy lights and the mesmerizing evening ceremony is completed. Overnight, stay at hotel.
Visit to Jallianwala Bagh, where the Jallianwala Bagh massacre took place on April 13, 1919. Later, visit Durgiana Temple – a Hindu temple with similar architecture as Golden Temple. In afternoon, drive to Wagah border (India – Pakistan border) is located in vicinity of Amritsar. Beating Retreat ceremony conducted daily by Indian Border Security Force (BSF) and Pakistan Rangers (PR) makes a fabulous spectacle. People gather in large numbers to witness the ceremony including parades and cultural shows. Overnight, stay at hotel.
After breakfast drive to Dharamshala (Land of Dalai Lama). It is a beautiful town in the lap of Himalayas that shot to fame after His Holiness Dalai Lama took shelter here. Day at leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Visit to Dal Lake - placed amidst lush greenery the lake also has a Shiva temple on its banks, St. John's Church - an Anglican church dedicated to John The Baptist, Tibetan Monastery - for witnessing the worshipping rituals and Bhagsu Nag Temple - an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Snake God, Nag and Lord Shiva. The rest of the day is at your own discretion. Partake in activities like shopping, trying out local delicacies etc. Overnight stay at hotel.
After breakfast, drive to Gaggal airport to board the Delhi flight, upon arrival you will be transferred to hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.
Transfer to Delhi international airport / railway station for onward destination.
The langar at Hola Mohalla serves a mind-boggling number of people every day - cooked and served entirely by volunteers driven by the Sikh principle of seva (selfless service). Sitting cross-legged on the ground alongside devotees from every walk of life, eating a simple, delicious meal - this is a moment of pure human connection.
Nothing prepares you for your first sight of a Nihang warrior. Towering turbans. Flowing blue robes. Armed with swords, spears, and shields. Riding at full gallop while performing impossible tricks. These are India's ancient warrior guardians and they ride for Hola Mohalla like it's the last battle.
Hundreds of thousands of visitors say the same thing: no photograph, no documentary, no description prepares you for the Golden Temple after dark. The reflection in the sacred pool. The kirtan drifting across the water. The silence amid the crowds. This is one of the most sacred sights on Earth and it's open to everyone, free of charge, 24 hours a day.
After the electricity of Anandpur Sahib and Amritsar, Dharamshala delivers something completely different: mountain air, Tibetan calm, and the extraordinary history of a community in exile. It's the perfect closing chapter.
Hola Mohalla falls one day after Holi, in the month of Phalguna according to the Sikh calendar, which falls in March of each year.
| Year | Approximate Dates | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | March 3 - 13 | Coming Soon |
| 2027 | March (TBC) | Dates to be confirmed |
| 2028 | March (TBC) | Dates to be confirmed |
We recommend booking at least 3-4 months in advance. Festival accommodation at Anandpur Sahib fills up quickly, and international flight prices rise sharply as March approaches.
Want us to notify you when 2027 dates are confirmed? Email us at info@brahmandtour.com and we will add you to our festival alert list.
This festival tour is just one way to experience the magic of India. Here's what our travellers explore next:
2027 tour spaces are limited. The festival falls in March each year, and international flights to Delhi fill up fast as the date approaches. The earlier you enquire, the better your options.
What happens when you contact us:
Three ways to reach us:
Absolutely not. Hola Mohalla and the Golden Temple welcome visitors of every religion, nationality, and background. The Sikh faith is built on the principle of universal brotherhood - the langar alone is proof of that. You simply need to cover your head (scarves provided at Gurudwaras) and remove your shoes before entering. Our guide explains everything so you'll always feel informed and respectful.
Yes. This is a cultural touring holiday, there is no trekking, high altitude, or strenuous physical activity. Walking distances are gentle and manageable. The main consideration is the festival itself, which involves large crowds and standing for periods of time. If you have specific mobility concerns, please contact us and we'll plan accordingly.
Modest, comfortable clothing is recommended throughout. At all Gurudwaras: cover your head (scarves available at the entrance, or bring your own), remove your shoes before entering, avoid very short shorts or sleeveless tops. For the festival, comfortable walking shoes and layers are ideal - March mornings in Punjab can be cool, with warm afternoons.
Yes. We offer private group departures for families, friend groups, or corporate teams (minimum 4 people). We customise the itinerary, pace, and accommodation to your preferences. Contact us for a private group quote.
Many visitors extend their stay. Popular combinations include: arriving a few days early to explore Delhi in depth, adding the Golden Triangle tour (Delhi-Agra-Jaipur) before the festival, continuing from Dharamshala into Himachal Pradesh, or combining with a motorcycle tour in summer.
The Indian Rupee (INR) is the local currency. We recommend bringing USD, GBP, EUR, or AUD and exchanging on arrival. Your guide will help you find the best exchange rate. For personal expenses over 11 days, $200-$400 USD is typically sufficient.
