Plan India Festivals Smarter With the Utsav Calendar

If your 2026 travel plans are still a messy mix of screenshots, WhatsApp forwards, and “what’s happening where” searches, the Government of India’s Utsav Portal is quietly becoming the clean fix. Built as a Ministry of Tourism initiative, it pulls festivals, cultural events, and even live darshan listings into a scrollable, trip-friendly calendar, so you can plan around real dates instead of rumours.
What’s Trending On Utsav Right Now For Festival Trip Planning
One listing drawing attention is Braj Holi Mahotsav (26–28 February 2026) in Deeg, Kaman, and Bharatpur, Rajasthan. Think colour, folk music, and a Braj-style cultural vibe that’s easier to route into a Rajasthan circuit than the classic UP temple trail.
For a quick visual pulse, Rajasthan Tourism has also been posting Braj Holi content on its official Instagram, which helps travellers gauge crowds, style, and atmosphere.

Smart Way To Use Utsav Portal Before You Book
Start with the “All Events” view, filter by state and month, then shortlist 2–3 backup festivals nearby. That matters because Holi-season plans can shift fast with crowd advisories and local routing.
FAQs
1) What is Utsav Portal?
A Ministry of Tourism site listing Indian festivals, events, and live darshans for travellers worldwide.
2) When is Braj Holi Mahotsav 2026?
It runs 26–28 February 2026 in Deeg, Kaman, and Bharatpur, Rajasthan, officially as listed online.
3) Is this the same as Mathura-Vrindavan Braj Holi?
No, this listing is Rajasthan’s Braj region; Uttar Pradesh hosts a longer Rangotsav season too.
4) How early should I book?
Book trains and stays 2–4 weeks ahead; festival dates trigger quick weekend sellouts often nationwide.
5) What should I carry for Holi events?
Carry eye protection, a scarf, sealed phone cover, cash, and gentle cleanser afterwards for skin.


