There are experiences in Jaipur that speak directly to the heart of the city, and kite flying is one of them. From the moment the first kite rises into the sky, you feel part of a tradition that is playful, social, and deeply woven into our heritage. From the terrace of our haveli, guests discover that this pastime is more than an activity. It is a way of experiencing Jaipur in its most authentic spirit, high above the bustle of the streets, yet very much connected to the life of the city.
A Tradition That Belongs to the Skies
Kite flying in a heritage palace carries a special charm. Our haveli terraces have long been a place where family, friends, and neighbours gather with spools of string and stacks of colourful paper kites. The ritual is timeless: the quick tug to catch the breeze, the gentle release as the kite steadies, and the laughter that follows when one kite outmanoeuvres another. For us, this is not only entertainment but a continuation of a custom that has bound people together for generations.
The tradition finds its most spirited expression during Makar Sankranti, celebrated each January when the skies of Jaipur are filled with countless kites. From early morning until sunset, rooftops across the city become lively arenas of friendly rivalry. Yet the joy of kite flying is not limited to one festival. Throughout the year, the terrace remains a place to experience the calm of watching a kite dance with the wind, a reminder of how small rituals can bring great delight.
A Personal Encounter with Heritage
The
kite flying experience in Jaipur is not just about learning a skill. It is about being welcomed into a local tradition in a setting that preserves both history and atmosphere. We provide guests with finely crafted kites and traditional spools, sharing the techniques that we ourselves learnt as children. Guiding the string requires patience, rhythm, and a feel for the breeze. Smiles and a spark of achievement always accompany the first moment a kite lifts high above the terrace.
There is a more profound joy in seeing how quickly this experience draws people together. Families find themselves cheering for one another, couples laugh over playful contests, and solo travellers often discover new friendships as they share the terrace with others. Kite flying creates a sense of community that feels effortless, and it is this connection that makes the tradition so enduring.
The Terrace as a Stage
The terrace itself is part of the experience. From here, the views stretch across Jaipur, with domes, rooftops, and the Aravalli hills framing the skyline. The sounds of the city rise faintly in the distance, while closer at hand, you hear the snap of a string, the rustle of paper kites, and the calls of other kite flyers on neighbouring terraces. As the afternoon light softens, the sky becomes a living canvas, dotted with vibrant shapes that rise, dip, and drift gracefully with the breeze.
We often serve tea on the terrace during kite flying, allowing guests to pause between flights and enjoy moments of conversation. There is no rush, only the pleasure of looking up at the colours against the sky and knowing that you are part of something timeless and local.
Beyond the Festival Spirit
For travellers who visit outside the festival season, the joy of kite flying remains just as captivating. In fact, many find that flying kites on a quieter day allows for a more reflective experience, one where the focus is less on competition and more on the rhythm of guiding the kite. The terrace provides the freedom to practise, learn, and enjoy without the intensity of the festival crowds.
The beauty of the kite flying experience in Jaipur lies in its adaptability. It is as exhilarating for a first-time flyer as it is nostalgic for those who may have tried it long ago. Children delight in watching their kites soar, while adults rediscover the thrill of a pastime that transcends age and background.
A Lasting Impression
Travel is often measured in the grand sights one visits or the fine meals one enjoys. Yet the experiences that remain longest are usually the simplest — those that connect us directly to a place and its people. Kite flying in a heritage palace setting allows exactly this. It is an encounter with tradition, a playful activity, and a chance to see Jaipur not only from above but from within.
When the day ends and the kites are finally reeled back in, there is always a sense of contentment on the terrace. For us, this is the true luxury of travel: not just staying in a historic home, but living the traditions that still give it life.
Join us on the terrace and feel the simple joy of watching your kite take flight over Jaipur.
Frequently Asked Questions
