Three day hot-air balloon begins in Hyderabad

Colourful hot-air balloons dotted Hyderabad’s skies as the three-day festival kicked off on Friday, January 16,2026, marking a new chapter in Telangana’s tourism sector. State Tourism and Culture Minister Jupally Krishna Rao inaugurated the festival near the historic Golconda Fort at the Golf Club. Around 40 passengers were carried in 18 hot-air balloons that took off in the morning. Describing the experience as “truly memorable”, Jupally Krishna Rao said the initiative marked a new chapter in the state’s tourism journey. Highlighting Telangana’s dual focus on heritage and innovation, the minister said that while the International Kite and Sweet Festival reflects the state’s rich culture, traditions and hospitality, events such as the hot-air balloon and drone festivals showcase modern technology and a future-oriented vision.
Tourism department officials said the hot-air balloon ride, priced at Rs 2,000, will last between 45 minutes and one hour, covering a distance of about 8 to 10 kilometres, depending on wind conditions. The maximum altitude for the flights has been fixed at 4,500 feet above sea level.Evening sessions will be held at the Parade Ground in Secunderabad, where tethered hot-air balloons will be operated as night-glow displays. These rides will allow the balloon to move only vertically, going up and down, and will begin at 5 p.m.