The Hyderabad Hot Air Balloon Festival 2026 draws to a close tomorrow, January 18, marking the end of a vibrant three-day celebration. This exciting event, themed "Celebrate the Sky," launched near the historic Golconda Fort at the Golf Club premises. It officially began on Friday with an inauguration by State Tourism and Culture Minister Jupally Krishna Rao.
Inaugural Flight and Tourism Boost
Minister Jupally Krishna Rao personally experienced the festival's charm by taking a hot air balloon ride during the opening. His journey spanned from the Golconda Golf Club to the Appajiguda outskirts, covering nearly 13 kilometers in about one and a half hours. The minister highlighted that this initiative opens a new chapter for tourism in Telangana, enhancing the state's appeal to visitors.
Festival Context and Concurrent Events
This balloon festival follows the Kite and Sweet Festival organized by Telangana Tourism, which ran from January 13 to 15 at Parade Grounds. Additionally, the balloon event coincides with a two-day Mega Drone Show at Gachibowli Stadium, concluding today. These back-to-back festivities create a lively atmosphere in Hyderabad, especially during the Sankranti celebrations.
Ticket Details and Booking Information
For those eager to enjoy aerial views of Hyderabad and its scenic landscapes, here are the key details. Morning balloon rides cost ₹2,000 per person. These rides last 30 to 40 minutes, ascend up to 4,500 feet, and cover 8 to 10 kilometers. Evening tethered rides and Night Glow Shows have nominal fees, with spectator tickets as low as ₹15.
Event Venue and Schedule
- Venue: Parade Ground, Secunderabad
- Age Limit: 5 years and above
- Time: 5:00 AM onwards
- Morning Session: 5:30 AM to 9:00 AM (Take-off from Golconda Golf Club)
- Evening Session: 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM (Night Glow at Parade Grounds)
- Nearest Metro: JBS Parade Ground Station (Blue/Green Line)
How to Book Tickets Online
- Visit the official booking partner, BookMyShow.
- Select your preferred date and session—choose between a morning balloon ride or an evening Night Glow tethered experience.
- Enter your personal details and complete the payment process to secure your tickets.
- Take a printout of the booking confirmation or ticket, and keep a soft copy on your mobile phone for the event day.
BookMyShow describes the "tethered flight" as a experience where ropes attach to the balloon, allowing it to ascend up to 50 feet above the ground. Each flight lasts approximately 7 to 10 minutes and accommodates 1 to 3 people. The festival features 15 international standard balloons, as reported by PTI, ensuring a high-quality and memorable experience for all attendees.
