Hyderabad Hot Air Balloon Festival Takes Off with Sold-Out Scenic Rides

Hyderabad is all set to mesmerize residents and tourists alike as the much-awaited Hot Air Balloon Festival 2026 takes flight from January 16 to 18. Organised by the Telangana Tourism Development Corporation (TGTDC), the three-day festival coincides with the Sankranti celebrations, aiming to combine adventure tourism with cultural festivities. The event is being hailed as one of the largest ballooning spectacles ever hosted in the city.

The festival was officially inaugurated on the opening day by Telangana Tourism and Culture Minister Jupally Krishna Rao, who also participated in a 13-kilometre aerial ride across the city. Nearly 18 colourful hot air balloons, operated by internationally certified pilots, took off from the Golf Club near Golconda Fort, offering panoramic views of Hyderabad’s skyline, historic landmarks, and surrounding landscapes.

Ticket demand has been extraordinarily high, with many online booking slots selling out within hours. Morning flights, providing extended scenic journeys, are priced at approximately Rs 2,000 plus GST, while evening tethered rides and night “glow” balloon shows are available at modest rates. Some night-time sessions require only minimal registration, making them accessible to families and casual visitors.

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Beyond the rides, the festival features a spectacular night glow show, where illuminated balloons create a magical display against the dusk sky. The Parade Ground in Secunderabad hosts evening light and cultural shows, while morning balloon ascents take place at open sites carefully selected based on weather and wind conditions to ensure safety and maximum visibility.

The Hot Air Balloon Festival also offers family-oriented activities, including food stalls, photography zones, and cultural performances. Visitors can enjoy a blend of adventure, relaxation, and entertainment, making it a perfect outing for all age groups. The festival has quickly become a must-visit experience for both Hyderabad locals and out-of-town tourists.

Tourism officials are optimistic that the event will significantly boost experiential tourism in Hyderabad, adding a new dimension to the city’s calendar of cultural attractions. By combining adventure sports with scenic vistas and festive celebrations, the festival aims to position Hyderabad as a prime destination for unique and memorable travel experiences.

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