Experience the Heart of Basant: Islamabad & Rawalpindi’s Hidden Rooftop Festival
While Lahore may be the public face of Basant, the true, unbroken spirit of the festival thrives in the historic neighborhoods of old Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Our Islamabad/Rawalpindi Basant Festival Tour invites you to step away from the mainstream and into the intimate, electrifying celebrations of the twin cities’ most beloved quarters.
This is where Basant is not just observed but lived. From the close-knit streets of Raja Bazar to the spirited rooftops of Banni and the historic charm of Bagh Sardaran, the sky erupts in a daily duel of colorful kites. In Khyaban-e-Sir Syed and the bustling corners of Tench Bhatta, generations gather—expert hands guide razor-sharp dor, shouts of “Bo Kata!” echo from alley to rooftop, and the air thrums with a collective, competitive joy.
Our tour is a curated passage into this vibrant, local world. You’ll not just watch from a distance; you’ll be welcomed onto private rooftops, feel the pull of the string, taste sizzling festival street food from age-old vendors, and lose yourself in the rhythmic beat of dhol that spills into the streets as the sun sets. It is a powerful, living chapter in the story of our wider pakistan-heritage-culture-and-food festivals, offering a deeply authentic encounter.
This is Basant in its most authentic, communal, and passionate form. Join us to celebrate spring where the kite-flying tradition is a heartfelt ritual, weaving together community, competition, and an unforgettable spectacle of color against the canvas of the twin cities’ historic skyline.
Highlight
- Exclusive Rooftop Access in iconic localities: Banni, Bagh Sardaran, and Tench Bhatta
- Authentic Kite-Flying Immersion with local experts in Raja Bazar and Khyaban-e-Sir Syed
- Private Cultural Evenings featuring Sufi music and traditional storytelling sessions
- Heritage Walks through Rawalpindi’s preserved Mughal-era streets and bazaars
- Artisan Experiences with master kite-makers and string crafters
- Gourmet Festival Cuisine from historic food streets and private culinary demonstrations
- Luxury Accommodation with panoramic views of the Margalla Hills and festival skyline
