Shakrain: the kite festival of Old Dhaka

Shakrain, or Poush Sankranti, is Old Dhaka’s own festival. On the last day of the month of Poush, families climb onto their rooftops and fight with kites all day, trying to cut each other’s strings, while children race through the lanes after falling kites. As the light goes, music starts and fire-breathers perform on the roofs.

Updated 21 October 2026.

Date

Shakrain is held on 14 January in Bangladesh. In 2027 that is a Thursday. Some families carry on the next day.

How Shakrain 2026 went

On 14 January 2026 kites flew over Old Dhaka all day and lanterns lit the Buriganga until about midnight. It was a tense year: some religious groups protested against the festival, and the Dhaka Metropolitan Police banned fireworks and sky lanterns and limited loudspeakers. Check the rules again before you go.

Where to watch

• Shankhari Bazar and Tanti Bazar, the heart of the festival.
• Sutrapur, Lakshmibazar, Gendaria, Dhupkhola and Narinda.
• Any rooftop with a view: the whole sky over Old Dhaka is full of kites.

Getting there

Old Dhaka is 30 to 60 minutes from central Dhaka by car or CNG. Or take the metro to Motijheel and a rickshaw. The lanes are narrow, so walk the last part.

Tips for visiting

• Kites cost from Tk 5 for a plain one; a spool of string is Tk 100 or more.
• The string is coated with glass and very sharp: watch your hands and neck.
• Arrive by early afternoon and stay until dusk for the fire-breathing.
• After dark it is loud and crowded.

Visiting with us

We take guests to a family rooftop in Old Dhaka, with kites, pitha and a guide to explain the rules of the fight. Plan your trip.

Shakrain FAQs