Holi, the festival of colours, is celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm all over India. But do you know what it feels like to celebrate Holi in a remote Himalayan valley? Welcome to Sangla, a breathtakingly beautiful town in Himachal Pradesh, where Holi is not merely a riot of colours—it’s a blend of tradition and culture, amidst the beauty of nature.
A Holi like no other
Situated in the Baspa Valley amidst snow-capped peaks and apple orchards—Sangla is a real-life postcard. Sangla’s Holi is special in its own way and quite different from city celebrations involving blaring music and water-filled balloons. In Sangla, Holi is celebrated over 4 days and is not all about colours. It’s an immersive experience of coming together of the people, folk music, and an age-old connection with nature. It’s celebrating the Faguli season or the upcoming spring season.
Traditional, local celebrations
Sangla Holi is spread over two colourful days—the eve of Holi and the sacred Holika Dahan day. Every morning, the temple courtyard of Shree Bering Nag ji comes alive with locals gathering to begin the festivities. You’ll find everyone dancing in traditional folk steps, playing instruments like dhols and trumpets, and applying gulal (dry colours) to each other. The atmosphere is filled with the rhythmic chants of “Holi hai, Holi hai” as participants make circles with interlocked arms and move in a slow, graceful manner.
To add to the celebrations, a group of villagers dress up as characters from the Ramayana (Lord Ram, Hanuman, etc.), enacting scenes from the epic. With elaborate costumes and intense, dramatic renditions, they take us back to childhood, bringing to life the timeless tales we’ve grown up with. This infuses the festival with mythological magic and storytelling that enchants locals and visitors alike. Then you’ll find two sadhus engaging in a dramatic battle scene, symbolising the intense fight between good and evil. Their energetic performance includes symbolic weapons and synchronized movements, leaving the audience amazed.
A feast for the senses
As the day progresses, a grand procession, beginning from the temple courtyard, winds its way through the valley’s villages. Along the way, specific halts are taken for communal meals so that everyone is well-fed during the celebrations. No Himachali festival is complete without its rich culinary heritage, and Sangla Holi is not an exception.
The locals prepare delicious dishes for all the festival-goers. For lunch, people relish Siddu (fermented steamed wheat buns with savoury fillings) and Chana Madra (a yoghurt-based chickpea curry). As the warmth of the sun fades, the air becomes crisp and warm cups of tea are served with Babru or Puri (a deep-fried bread prepared from whole wheat flour). To keep the festive spirit “high”, visitors are treated to cups of the local fermented drink.
Playing Holi amidst the Himalayas
The uniqueness of Sangla Holi is in its setting. Imagine playing Holi with natural colours amidst majestic snow-covered peaks, clear blue skies, and fresh mountain air. The picturesque backdrop of white in contrast to the vivid colours is a mesmerising sight. Locals and travellers join hands to celebrate with laughter, music, dance, and the spirit of togetherness.
The Grand Finale: Holika Dahan
As the full moon (poornima) sets in, the festival culminates in the temple courtyard with Holika Dahan, the ritual burning of the demoness Holika. A large bonfire is lit, symbolising the triumph of good over evil. Villagers gather around, dancing along with the flames.
Why you simply can’t miss experiencing Sangla Holi
If you’re looking for a Holi experience that’s peaceful yet deeply cultural, Sangla is the place to be. It’s a chance to step away from the chaos of city celebrations and immerse yourself in a celebration that’s as much about tradition and spirituality as it is about colours. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a thrill seeker, or simply someone who loves the mountains, Sangla Holi promises memories that will last a lifetime.
Planning your trip
- Best time to visit: Holi usually falls in March, and Sangla is still covered in snow, making it a surreal experience.
- How to reach: Take an overnight bus from Delhi or Chandigarh to Shimla, followed by a picturesque drive to Sangla. You can also opt for a local HRTC bus from major Himachali towns like Rampur or Reckong Peo.
- Where to stay: Quaint homestays and small guesthouses offer a cosy stay with warm hospitality but be sure to book well in advance as they sell out closer to the date.
So, this Holi, swap the city’s crowded streets for the tranquil beauty of the Himalayas and experience the festival of colours like never before. Are you ready to celebrate Holi in the Himalayas?