International Kite Festival (Uttarayan)

Month

January (Makar Sankranti, usually 14 January)

Main venues

Ahmedabad (Gujarat), Polo Ground Jaipur (Rajasthan)

Also known as

Uttarayan

When it happens

The festival is tied to Makar Sankranti, which usually falls on 14 January and occasionally on the 15th. The day marks the sun's move into Capricorn and the start of its northward journey, after which daylight hours begin to lengthen. It is also a harvest festival, a time to give thanks to the Sun God for the crop, and it is celebrated under different names across India.

How it is celebrated

From early morning, families head up to their rooftops with spools of thread and stacks of kites. The real sport is the kite fight: flyers use sharpened, coated string to try to cut rivals' lines, and each success is greeted with loud shouts from neighbouring terraces. Alongside the competition there are relaxed displays where individuals and clubs show off large or unusually shaped kites.

• Kite fights between rooftops and teams
• Non-competitive flying of decorated and giant kites
• Prize ceremonies for competition winners
• Food stalls selling regional festival snacks

Where to see it

In Gujarat, Ahmedabad is the centre of the action, with the international event drawing kite teams from many countries. In Rajasthan, the festival at the Polo Ground in Jaipur attracts local flyers and visitors, and the old city rooftops are packed all day. Either city makes a good base for a mid-January trip, and we can plan the itinerary around the festival dates.

Tips for visitors

Book hotels early, as rooms fill quickly around Sankranti. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, carry sunglasses and a cap, and keep water handy. Kites and string are sold everywhere in the days before the festival if you want to take part. Be careful near rooftop edges, and watch for loose string on roads, which can be dangerous for two-wheeler riders.

Where to experience it