Tamil Nadu International Balloon Festival in Pollachi is a popular annual event held in mid-January with the support of the Department of Tourism Tamil Nadu. Taking place near Pollachi Coimbatore Highway, the three-day festival features balloons of all shapes and colors from about ten countries. Special shape balloons are also present at the festival.
Balloon Flights and Other Highlights
Mass ascensions of hot air balloons take place at 6:30 am and 4 pm, weather permitting. Flying is impossible in case of high winds or rain. The festival also features limited tethered balloon rides from 4 to 8 pm. Other highlights of the Tamil Nadu International Balloon Festival include a fantastic music concert, a Hot Air Balloon Show, a food fair, games, shops, and lots of fun for the whole family. Carnival rides are some of the best in the region. Helicopter Joy Rides are also available for the public to enjoy scenic views of Pollachi.
Balloon Run
In 2024, the festival introduced an exciting run with hot air balloons. As the sun rises and dozens of spectacular balloons dot the skies, thousands of runners dash to the finish line and enjoy majestic views. The first-ever Balloon Run in India offers the distances of 10k, 5k, and 3k. Winners are awarded with an Exclusive Balloon Ride, and every participant gets a commemorative medal and t-shirt. So run to fly and create once-in-a-lifetime memories!
Helicopter Rides
Helicopter Rides is another highlight of the Tamil Nadu International Balloon Festival. This majestic adventure allows you to get a bird' s-eye perspective of the picturesque Pollachi Landscapes, while you are soaring over endless coconut tree forests. It's a unique opportunity to marvel at the natural beauty of Tamil Nau and immerse in an adventurous festival spirit.
The rides are available from 10 am to 4 pm at Tamil Nadu International Balloon Festival grounds. Prices start at ₹5400 and depend on the duration of the flight. Passengers have to arrive one hour before the estimated departure at the event venue with a valid government ID. Foreigners have to submit their passport and visa details in advance for the ATC authorization. Helicopter rides take place, weather permitting. In case of bad weather, flights can be postponed till the next day or another day, convenient to the passenger.
Tickets
General Admission to the festival is ₹150, which provides access to a variety of attractions, such as the Balloon Show, Music Area, Food Court, Kids' Games Zone, and Shopping Expo. Children up to 12 years old can enter the festival for free with the adult General Entry Pass.
