Hampi Utsav 2026 to Feature 1,000-Drone Show and Helicopter Tours
Hampi Utsav 2026: Drone Show & Helicopter Tours Announced

Hampi Utsav 2026 to Revive Vijayanagara Splendor with High-Tech Drone Spectacle

Hampi (Vijayanagara) is gearing up to relive the glorious era of the Vijayanagara Empire as preparations accelerate for the internationally acclaimed Hampi Utsav 2026. Scheduled from February 13 to 15, this three-day cultural extravaganza promises to draw visitors from across India and around the globe through a vibrant fusion of heritage exhibitions, traditional art forms, and dynamic cultural performances.

1,000-Drone Night Show to Illuminate Hampi's Skies

One of the standout features of this year's festival will be a groundbreaking high-tech show utilizing 1,000 drones. This nightly spectacle, held daily from 7pm onwards near the main stage, aims to recreate the grandeur of the Vijayanagara Empire by forming visually stunning aerial images of Hampi's iconic monuments. The drone display will transcend conventional light shows, presenting intricate artworks of several heritage structures, including:

  • The Stone Chariot
  • The Rajagopura of the Virupaksheshwara Swamy Temple
  • Ugra Narasimha
  • Kamal Mahal

Additionally, images of legendary Vijayanagara rulers such as Krishnadevaraya and Hakka-Bukka will be depicted, offering a mesmerizing experience for audiences.

'Hampi by Sky' Helicopter Service Launched for Aerial Views

Enhancing the festival's attractions, a new 'Hampi by Sky' helicopter service will debut to provide visitors with a daytime aerial perspective of the heritage site. Two helicopters will operate from February 12 to 15 from the Mayura Bhuvaneshwari premises in Kamalapura. Each flight will last seven minutes, encompassing take-off and landing, allowing tourists to appreciate Hampi's vast historical landscape from above.

Additional Festival Highlights and Activities

Beyond the drone show and helicopter tours, Hampi Utsav 2026 will feature a rich array of events and activities. Visitors can explore food fairs, exhibitions, and a Chitra Sante (art market) throughout the festival. Other key attractions include:

  1. February 10: Bike rally starting at 8am
  2. February 11: The Tunga Aarati Mahotsav from 6pm
  3. February 12: Vijayanagara Vasantha Vaibhava procession from 3pm
  4. February 13: Rangoli competition from 10am

This comprehensive lineup ensures a diverse and engaging experience for all attendees, blending historical reverence with modern entertainment.