If you like watching colorful skies, the Kite Festival of Jaipur is a must-watch event. The kite festival is a vibrant and colorful festival with bright celebrations unique to Rajasthan. In this festival, you can see wonderful kites in a variety of shapes. On this day, people from across the world descend on Jaipur, the hub of the celebration, to compete in kite flying with each other and flaunt their skills from the terraces of their houses or the grounds. The zeal and gusto with which the kite flying festival in Jaipur is celebrated will blow your mind.
Dates and history
Date: 14th January, 2025
In the year 1989, the international kite festival was held, where people from all across the globe participated and showcased their innovative kites. It is said that India made the tradition of kite flying due to the kings; later, it was followed by the nawabs, who found this sport entertaining and a way to display their skills and power. If you want to explore the rich heritage and culture of Rajasthan, the Kite festival in Jaipur in 2025 should not be missed. This festival is highly popular among the residents of Jaipur as they pray to the god Sun to bless them with good fortune and health. As in the early times, the economy of Jaipur is dependent on agriculture, and the sun plays a crucial role in the yield of the crop. The symbolism of this festival is to show the awakening of the gods from their deep sleep.
Popularity and key Highlights
On Makar Sankranti, there is a government holiday in Jaipur. Therefore, the shops and the banks remained shut, which gives a chance to every member of the family to enjoy this festival with joy. Below are some of the key highlights of this event:
- In this event, several kite flying competitions were organised by the kite club. Kite lovers from all over the world came and participated in this event, and the residents of Jaipur also welcomed you to the event, even if you don’t know how to fly a kite.
- The prizes for the people whose kites stayed in the sky for the longest were distributed on the third day at Umaid Bhawan Palace’s premises.
- Other than kites, in the dark, you can also explore firecrackers and lanterns, which will make your experience more beautiful.
Apart from the local competitions or cultural traditions being followed on Makar Sankranti, there are several other activities that take place. One of them is the International Kite Festival in Jaipur. This festival, or rather competition, takes place every year, and participants from different countries come to Jaipur to participate in the same.
Correlation Between Makar Sankranti and the International Kite Festival in Jaipur
There is a strong and deeply rooted relationship between Makar Sankranti and the International Kite Festival in Jaipur. This relation is connected to tradition, climate, and cultural symbolism.
Makar Sankranti marks the sun’s transition from Makara (Capricorn) and the beginning of Uttarayan, a period that is considered highly auspicious in Indian Culture. In Rajasthan, this festival is not only celebrated through rituals and charity, but also through the joyful tradition of Kite Flying.
The International Kite Festival Jaipur
The International Kite Festival in Jaipur is the modern extension of the old traditions. While Makar Sankranti is a cultural and spiritual foundation, the kite festival adds to a global dimension by inviting international kite flyers, artists, and tourists. Through this festival, Jaipur has been able to showcase its heritage on an international platform while also preserving the festival’s traditional essence.
When and where is the Jaipur Kite Festival 2026 held?
The Jaipur Kite Festival 2026 is going to be celebrated on the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti, which is 14th January 2026. Even though the main celebration is done on the 14th, the festival gets extended by two-three days. All of this depends on the official schedules announced by the Rajasthan Tourism Government.
Jaipur Kite Festival 2026 Dates
- Date: 14th January, 2026.
- In case of extended celebrations: 15-16th January, 2026.
Major Venues in Jaipur where the Kite Festival is celebrated
The festival is celebrated across the city at various venues, but some venues will have events which will be organised events and cultural programs:
- Jaipur Polo Ground (Chaughan Stadium): One of the main venues where the official kite flying competitions take place.
- Jal Mahal Lakefront: With an amazing backdrop, the visitors here can witness thousands of kites soaring above the Man Sagar Lake.
- Rooftops Across the Pink City: Right from heritage havelis to modern cafes, all become lively kite-flying zones.
These iconic venues make the International Kite Festival Jaipur 2026 a visual treat for both the participants and the audience.
Festival Timings and Ticket Price for Kite Festival Jaipur 2026
The Kite Festival Jaipur 2026 has three timings during the day. These are as follows:
- Morning (8 am- 11 pm): It is perfect for professional kite flying, competitions, and photography.
- Afternoon (11 am- 3 pm): The whole day sees continuous kite flying by locals and tourists, and food stalls remain active throughout the day.
- Evening (4 pm onwards): There are cultural performances, folk dances, and illuminated kite displays at select venues only.
If you are a person who is enthusiastic about clicking pictures, then you should definitely visit these places early in the morning or at sunset hours, as these times give the best lighting for photography, especially near Jal Mahal.
Kite Festival Jaipur Ticket Price 2026
This international festival is free for everyone, whether participating or just being an audience member.
Ticket Price Details
- General Entry: Free for everyone.
- Cultural Show/ VIP Seating: If the event is organised by Rajasthan Tourism, then it may have a nominal ticket price.
- Special Events or Enclosures: These will be announced closer to the event dates.
Ways in which you can reach Jaipur
Makar Sankranti is also referred to as Uttarayan because the sun embarks on a northward journey on this day. To reach the Jaipur kite festival, you can choose any option as per your budget.
- By Airways: You can travel to Jaipur from numerous cities in India. The Sanhaner Airport is 13 kms away from Jaipur.
- By Railways: Jaipur is well-connected to all parts of India via railways.
- By Roadways: Jaipur is well-connected to every city in India via road. You can opt for a luxury bus, a state bus, or drive to Jaipur.
When you enjoy the colourful festival of Kite in Jaipur, make sure that you visit Udaipur, which is hardly 394 km away. You can stay in the Private Luxury Villa in Udaipur, which will offer you the best services and spacious accommodations.
