The Kite Festival in Jaipur is celebrated on 14 January during Makar Sankranti. In 2026, the festival falls on 14 January 2026. Jaipur becomes the main hub of the kite festival in Rajasthan, with colorful kites filling the sky from morning to evening.
This festival marks the end of winter and the start of longer days. Jaipur becomes the main center of the kite festival in Rajasthan, where locals and visitors gather to fly kites, enjoy traditional food, and celebrate together. From early morning till sunset, the Pink City turns into one of India’s most vibrant winter festivals.
What Is the Kite Festival in Rajasthan?
The Kite Festival in Rajasthan is celebrated on Makar Sankranti, a traditional festival associated with the movement of the Sun. It is believed to bring good luck, health and happiness. People start their day early, pray and then spend hours flying kites.
Jaipur is the heart of this celebration. While cities like Jodhpur and Udaipur also celebrate, the scale and energy in Jaipur is unmatched. The old town has become a maze of colorful rooftops, each full of people enjoying and enjoying the day.
The festival also reflects the strong communal culture of Rajasthan. Neighbors invite each other, roofs are shared, and the mood remains friendly and festive.
History and Significance of the Kite Festival.
The Kite Festival occurs during Makar Sankranti. The history of Makar Sankranti is the day that the sun begins to move towards the north. Referred to as Uttarayan. This is the term for winter coming to an end and long days of warmth soon to follow. Many years ago, people thought that flying kites in the sunshine brings good health. Also, good fortune after the cold weather.
Kite flying is a common sight in most parts of India, but Jaipur’s festival is the largest and most vibrant. The old pink structures, cheerful crowds, and friendly battles between kites. Thus, makes it an event quite unique with a lot of Rajasthani flavor and zest. So, explore the Rajasthan Festivals with us.
Jaipur Kite Festival 2026 Date and Schedule
Jaipur Kite Festival 2026 Date
The Jaipur Kite Festival 2026 will be celebrated on 14 January 2026. This date is observed every year as Makar Sankranti, a traditional festival that marks the sun’s movement into the Capricorn zodiac. Because of this, 14 January is widely known as the official Jaipur kite festival date.
Many travelers search in advance for the Jaipur kite festival 2026 date to plan their trip, as this festival is one of the biggest cultural events in Rajasthan’s winter season.
Festival Timing on 14 January
- Early Morning: Kite flying begins soon after sunrise
- Late Morning to Afternoon: Peak kite flying time across Jaipur rooftops
- Evening: Cultural programs, music, and local gatherings
- Night: Family dinners and festive sweets at homes
Although the main celebration happens on 14 January, kite flying can be seen in Jaipur for one or two days before and after the festival if the weather is clear.
Jaipur Kite Festival Location – Best Places to Watch
One of the best parts of this festival is that it happens across the city. There is no single ground or stage. The celebration lives on rooftops, streets, and open spaces.
Best Rooftop Areas in Jaipur
- Walled City (Pink City): This is the most popular area. Almost every rooftop here is active.
- Nahargarh Road Area: Known for dense kite flying and exciting views.
- MI Road Nearby Buildings: Offers a mix of modern views and old city charm.
Public Viewing Spots
- Nahargarh Fort: A great place to see the city covered in kites from above.
- Albert Hall Museum Area: Open space with good visibility.
- Local Open Grounds: Many neighborhoods have shared spaces for families.
If you are visiting Jaipur for the first time, staying near the old city gives the most authentic experience of the Jaipur kite festival location.
How Jaipur Celebrates the Kite Flying Festival.
During the festival, Jaipur filled with joy and cheer. Children attempt to fly their very first kite. Then, professionals slice other individuals’ kites screaming out “Woh kata!” meaning “It’s cut!”
- Friends and relatives have friendly kite fights. Also, attempt to keep their kites up for the longest time in the air. Kite Festival celebration in Jaipur is enjoyed with charm.
- Drumming sounds, cheering, and folk songs fill the air and make everyone laugh and dance.
- During morning, people get their homes decorated. Yes, with their own colorful kites made at home and then head towards the rooftop.
- Small road-side shops stock bright kite strings. Also, beautiful kites of many designs and shapes.
- People light small sky lanterns in the evening, and the sky looks like a sea of glowing lights and stars. You can also book a 1 Day Jaipur Tour Package.
Best Kite Markets in Jaipur.
So, where to buy kites in Jaipur? This is no puzzle. These markets get crowded a week in advance before the festival. The small paper kites cost as little as ₹20, and expensive designer kites can cost ₹200–₹500. Kids enjoy strolling through these lanes with sounds of laughter and kite flying.
| Market Name | Specialty | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Haldiyon ka Rasta | Handmade traditional paper and bamboo kites. | Go early morning to get authentic Rajasthani designs. |
| Johari Bazaar | Decorative and imported kites with shiny and bright colors. | Suitable for purchasing beautiful and colorful designer kites. |
| Tripolia Bazaar | Strong strings (manja), spools, and kite equipment. | Always choose cotton or safe thread to prevent cuts and injuries. |
Traditional Food During the Kite Festival.
The aroma of best food in Jaipur spreads everywhere during the festival. Warmer snacks and sweets prepared by people to enjoy while kite flying on terraces.
- Til ke Laddoo and Gajak – Sweet jaggery and sesame balls that warm the body during winter.
- Revdi and Chikki – Crunchy sweet snacks that are enjoyed by everyone. Yes, while they engage in kite fights.
- Pakoras and Kachoris – Hot fried foods accompanied by spicy chutneys. This doubles the fun during afternoons.
- Masala Chai – Spicy Indian tea that keeps individuals warm. Also, cheerful while they see kites soar.
If you dine outside at shops or small eateries, an individual can indulge in all these snacks for around ₹150–₹300. Also, check out the best rooftop restaurants in Jaipur under ₹1000.
Tourist Spots and Photography During Kite Festival.
There are plenty of tourists who visit Jaipur during this festival. Thus, to witness the colored sky and take wonderful photographs. There are a few good places to view.
- Nahargarh Fort – Offers a large wide view of Jaipur. Full of flying kites that appear very small from overhead.
- Jal Mahal Waterfront – Kites mirrored in the lake water, making it an ideal place to take photos.
- City Palace Terrace – There are some hotels in Jaipur that let the guests fly kites and have food atop.
- Rooftop Cafes – Cafes such as The Tattoo Café and Wind View Café offer fabulous views of Hawa Mahal with kites all over it.
Photography Tip: If you have a polarizing filter, use it—it makes the sky bluer and clearer. The best time to shoot is in the afternoon when the sky is colorful and sunny. Attempt taking photos at sunset when lanterns begin to fly and the sky becomes golden.
Travel Tips for Visitors Attending the Kite Festival Jaipur
| Tip | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Reserve hotels and roofs in advance. | Sky-view rooms are booked up many days ahead of the festival. |
| Bring sunscreen and a hat. | The sun in winter is strong even on open roofs. |
| Buy kites and strings well in advance. | Popular and beautiful designs sell out fast in markets. |
| Drink water and take breaks. | Standing for hours on the roof can leave you parched and weary. |
Conclusion – Experience the Joy of Kite Festival Jaipur
The Jaipur Kite Festival is more than only flying paper in the air. It is about happiness, light, and friendship. When thousands of kites fly in the sky, they resemble multicolored birds. Yes, with spread wings giving joy and hope. Whether one flies a kite oneself or not, one can never forget the enchanting sky of Jaipur on this festival. It shows us that when we unite, we can make the world beautiful and bright— like those kites so high up in the city. Explore the best packages with Japji Travel. We promise, your journey will be as good as the vibe to the state.
FAQs
The Kite Festival in Jaipur 2026 will be celebrated on Wednesday, January 14, 2026. This day coincides with Makar Sankranti, a major Hindu festival marking the transition of the sun into the Capricorn zodiac (Makara Rashi). The skies of Jaipur fill with colorful kites from early morning till sunset, symbolizing joy, unity, and freedom.
January is the best month for kite flying in Jaipur and most parts of North India. During this time, the weather is cool, the winds are steady, and the sky remains clear — perfect for flying kites all day. That’s why the Kite Festival is celebrated every year in mid-January during Makar Sankranti.
The Jaipur Kite Festival 2026 is one of the most popular winter events in Rajasthan. Locals and tourists gather on rooftops to fly kites of all colors and shapes. The main celebrations take place at the Rajasthan Tourism Department’s official event held at the Jal Mahal and Polo Ground, featuring competitions, music, and traditional food. It’s not just about flying kites — it’s a full-day cultural experience that captures the spirit of Rajasthan.
The Rajasthan Tourism Department will host the Kite Festival 2026 at Jaipur Polo Ground and Jal Mahal, near the beautiful Mansagar Lake. Locals will also fly kites from rooftops across Johari Bazaar, Amer Road, and Hawa Mahal. The entire Pink City turns into a colorful spectacle of flying kites.
The Jaipur Kite Festival 2026 will start around 8:00 AM and continue till sunset on January 14, 2026. The best time to enjoy kite flying is between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM.
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