Basant 2027 (Lahore Kite Festival)

Basant 2027, Lahore's spring kite-flying festival, takes place from 12 to 14 March 2027 in Lahore, Pakistan. The district administration of Lahore has announced a "safe Basant" across the district on these three days, with clear rules on kites and string. This guide is for travellers, overseas Pakistanis and agencies planning a spring trip to Lahore.

About Basant

Basant is a traditional festival that welcomes spring in Punjab. In Lahore it is famous for kite flying, when rooftops fill with families and friends, the sky fills with colourful kites, and the city enjoys music, food and gatherings. For many people from Lahore living abroad, Basant is a reason to come home.

Kite flying was restricted in Lahore for many years because of safety concerns. The Punjab government has brought the festival back under strict regulations. The district administration's notice on the official District Lahore website says that only standard kites and cotton thread are allowed. It bans chemical, metal-coated and sharp string, spools, aerial firing and fireworks, and asks citizens to report violations to the district control room.

The 2027 dates fall shortly after Eid al-Fitr, so many families may combine Eid visits with the festival.

Basant 2027 dates and venue

The district administration of Lahore states that Basant will be celebrated in District Lahore from 12 to 14 March 2027. The dates for Basant 2027 were changed more than once during 2026, so check the official Punjab government channels again shortly before travelling.

There is no single venue. Kite flying takes place from rooftops and open spaces across the district, especially in the old city and established residential areas. Some events may be organised at parks and public venues, so check local announcements.

How to get to Lahore for Basant

Allama Iqbal International Airport (LHE) is Lahore's international airport, with links to the Gulf, the Middle East and other cities in Pakistan. Travellers can also reach Lahore by road or rail from Islamabad and other cities.

Taxis and ride-hailing services are widely used in Lahore. Expect busy roads around the festival days. Travellers should check the official entry requirements for Pakistan before booking.

Where to stay

Gulberg, the Mall Road area and Defence (DHA) are popular bases with a wide range of hotels and restaurants. Travellers who want to feel the traditional Basant atmosphere often spend time in the Walled City, home to landmarks such as Masjid Wazir Khan, and may look for guesthouses or hosts with rooftop access. Demand rises over the festival weekend, so book early.

Planning a group trip to Basant

A group tour to Basant suits diaspora families, cultural travellers and photographers. Arrange rooftop access in advance through hosts or venues, and brief the group on the safety rules: only permitted kites and cotton string, no metal or chemical string, and no fireworks or aerial firing.

Combine the festival with visits to Lahore Fort, Badshahi Mosque, the Walled City and the city's food streets. Keep children supervised on rooftops and plan travel around crowded areas.

Frequently asked questions

When is Basant 2027 in Lahore?

The district administration of Lahore says Basant will be celebrated in District Lahore from 12 to 14 March 2027. The dates changed during 2026, so check official announcements before travelling.

What safety rules apply during Basant?

The district administration allows only standard kites and cotton thread. Chemical, metal and sharp string, spools, aerial firing and fireworks are banned. Report violations to the district control room. Visitors must follow these rules.

Where can visitors watch the kites?

Kite flying takes place from rooftops and open spaces across Lahore, with a strong traditional atmosphere in the Walled City. Arrange rooftop access in advance through hosts or venues. Follow the safety rules at all times.

Which airport serves Lahore?

Allama Iqbal International Airport (LHE) is Lahore's international airport, with flights to the Gulf, the Middle East and cities across Pakistan. Taxis and ride-hailing services link the airport with the city.

Is Basant suitable for families?

Basant is traditionally a family festival. Families should follow the safety rules carefully, keep children supervised on rooftops and plan for crowded roads during the three days. Avoid crowded spots with small children.

Travel agencies can book flights for travellers going to Basant in Lahore in the QuickOTA B2B Panel and set their own markup.