Vadodra International Kite Festival

This January, get ready to see Vadodara’s sky filled with massive, colorful kites! The International Kite Festival is coming to Gujarat’s cultural capital, bringing world-class kite flyers from all over the globe to our city.

While Ahmedabad has the main week-long event, Vadodara offers a special, up-close experience with a royal touch. It is a total celebration for the senses - from the sound of the whistling wind and the sight of beautiful silk kites to the energetic beats of the traditional Dhol.

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Essential Visitor Guide

Detail	Official 2026 Information
Main Event Date	January 13, 2026 (International Showcase)
Local Festivities	January 14 – 15, 2026 (Uttarayan & Vasi Uttarayan)
General Timings	10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Primary Location	Navlakhi Ground, Rajmahal Road, Vadodara
Entry Pricing	FREE for all visitors

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2026 Highlights: What’s New?

• Global Sky-Art: Watch over 100+ kite enthusiasts from nations like Chile, South Africa, and Thailand launch massive 3D kites. Look out for the "Jumbo Inflatables"—giant sea creatures and geometric wonders that dominate the Baroda sky.
• The Royal Backdrop: The festival takes place at the Navlakhi Ground, offering a unique opportunity to photograph international kites soaring near the vicinity of the iconic Lakshmi Vilas Palace.
• Cultural Fusion Stage: New for 2026! A daily showcase where local folk dancers perform beside the flying zone, celebrating Vadodara's status as the "Sanskari Nagari" (Cultural City) of Gujarat.
• Local Flavors: The 2026 food zone features Vadodara’s legendary Sev Usal, along with winter soul foods like Undhiyu, Jalebi, and Til-Chikki.
• Artisan Alley: Meet master kite makers from across India to understand the delicate process of balancing bamboo and paper to create a flight-ready Patang.

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Pro-Tips for Your Visit

• The One-Day Window: Note that the International flyers are typically in Vadodara for one day only (January 13). Plan your travel accordingly if you want to see the global professional kites.
• The Rooftop Transition: On January 14 (Uttarayan), the international teams move on, and the city’s rooftops become the main stage. For a local experience, head to the terraces of the Walled City (Mandvi or Nyaymandir) to hear the deafening cries of "Kai Po Che!"
• Road Safety: During the festival week, if you are traveling via two-wheeler, ensure you have a neck guard or scarf. The glass-coated kite strings (Manjha) can be dangerous on open roads and bridges.
• Bird Protection: Vadodara’s bird rescue groups are very active during this time. Please use "Sadi" (plain cotton thread) if you decide to fly, and avoid flying during early morning or sunset when birds are most active.
• Statue of Unity Connection: Since Vadodara is the gateway to the Statue of Unity, consider a combined trip. The international flyers often perform a satellite showcase at Ektanagar on January 11 before arriving in Vadodara.