Hyderabad: Telangana has added a new attraction to its tourism calendar with the launch of the city’s first Hot Air Balloon Festival at the Secunderabad Parade Grounds. The three-day event, inaugurated by Tourism Minister Jupalli Krishna Rao, has drawn strong public response and marks a new milestone in Hyderabad’s tourism and cultural initiatives.
Around 300 visitors who booked in advance were offered hot air balloon rides, providing a rare aerial view of the city. For the general public, a Night Glow Show was arranged, featuring anchored balloons illuminated with colorful lights and music, emerging as a major attraction for families and photography enthusiasts. Tickets are available online, priced between ₹500 and ₹1,500, with organizers stating that rates were kept affordable to encourage wider participation.
🎈✨ Hot Air Balloon Festival takes off near Golconda Fort, Hyderabad ✨🎈 pic.twitter.com/HjPs7n9CWb
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The festival is part of a series of Sankranti tourism events organized by the Telangana government, including the International Kite and Sweets Festival held from January 13 to 15 and the Drone Festival at Gachibowli Stadium on January 16 and 17. The Hot Air Balloon Festival, being held from January 16 to 18, is the first of its kind in Hyderabad, with visitors able to witness the balloons daily after 4 PM in an open-air setting.
With initiatives such as hot air balloon festivals, drone shows, and international-scale events, the Telangana government aims to strengthen Hyderabad’s position as a major tourism hub, with the balloon festival bringing a fresh identity to the city’s tourism landscape.