Tamil Nadu International Balloon Festival
PastExperience the 11th edition of the Tamil Nadu International Balloon Festival (TNIBF) 2026. Organized with the support of the Department of Tourism, this festival features massive, special-shaped hot air balloons from over eight countries, transforming the Coimbatore sky into a vibrant spectacle.
Quick Guide for Visitors
| What You Need to Know | Official 2026 Information |
|---|---|
| Dates | January 15 to January 18, 2026 |
| Location | Jallikattu Grounds, L&T Road, Vellalore, Coimbatore |
| Entry Fee | Free for Kids (up to 12); Adults: ₹200 (Online) |
| Nearest Airport | Coimbatore International Airport (CJB) |
| Nearest Station | Coimbatore Junction or Podanur Junction |
Event Timings and Activities
- Carnival Entry: 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM (Includes Shopping Expo and Food Court).
- Balloon Display: 5:30 PM onwards (Strictly weather dependent).
- Music Concert: 6:00 PM onwards (Included in the general entry pass).
- Important Note: There are no public morning flights at this venue; the event is designed as an evening spectator carnival.
2026 Highlights
- Special Shapes: This year features unique designs including Wes the Wolf, Eli the Elephant (UK), Baby Monster (Brazil), Hugo the Cheetah (Austria), and the new Astro the Alien (France).
- Global Participation: Professional pilots and crews from the UK, USA, France, Brazil, Vietnam, and Thailand are participating in the 11th anniversary.
- Night Glow Show: A major highlight where tethered balloons are illuminated in sync with music after sunset, creating a giant lantern effect.
- Tethered Rides: Limited tethered rides (short vertical lifts) are available via lucky draws for participants and limited on-site bookings, subject to wind conditions.
- Family Carnival: The grounds feature a 100+ stall shopping expo, a dedicated kids' play zone, and a multi-cuisine food court.
Useful Tips for Your Trip
- Weather Dependency: Hot air balloon displays require calm winds. The pilot’s decision is final for safety; activities may be delayed or paused if wind speeds are too high.
- Seating: General entry is standing only. Visitors are permitted to bring foldable chairs or ground sheets to enjoy the music and balloon glow comfortably.
- Prohibited Items: Outside food (except baby food), professional cameras (without permit), and sharp objects are not allowed. Security frisking is mandatory.
- Arrival Recommendation: Arrive by 4:00 PM to avoid heavy traffic on L&T Bypass Road and to secure a good viewing spot before the balloons inflate.
- No Refunds: Tickets are non-refundable, even if balloon activities are limited due to weather, as the ticket covers ground carnival and music access.
