For a lot of people, a hot air balloon ride in India has long been a fantasy and an adventure. Journeys overseas, oceans, and continents to new and diverse places, civilizations, and people, as depicted in movies and stories, have long piqued interest and inspired creativity. Viewing beautiful landscapes, towns, and country from high above and in the open air, floating in a basket and being carried across the skies, has a big appeal. Women often end up romanticizing a hot air balloon ride whereas men think of it as a ride slightly similar to riding an alien ship. Apparently, the hot air balloon rides have long been popular as a tourist attraction in Western countries, where it is practiced and promoted intensively.
Meanwhile, there has been a rise in the demand for hot air balloon rides in India. These rides have piqued people’s interest and piqued their curiosity. As more people learned about it, it gained popularity, eventually becoming one of the country’s fastest-growing tourist attractions. The hot air balloon ride prices in India can vary depending on the destination or place.
Nonetheless, there are only a few spots in India where tourists can enjoy these rides, and we’ve compiled a list of the best destinations in India for a hot air balloon ride. Mentioned below are some cities where visitors can participate in this extremely exciting, entertaining activity and experience the thrill and delight of soaring above your city and seeing it in all its grandeur. The picturesque view from up there would be a sight to behold, right?
Some of the best destinations for a hot air balloon ride in India are:
Pushkar
A hot air balloon ride in Pushkar during the famed annual Pushkar fair is an exhilarating, not-to-be-missed recreational activity that is extremely popular with visitors. A hot air balloon ride during this event over the soaring sky while observing the largest gathering of cattle on planes, as well as the mass of humanity and colorful spectators, is one of the best hot air balloon rides in India.
Traveling among the massive crowds at the fair, the countless camps on the dunes, the sight of the holy lake, and the vision of a variety of temples and holy locations that have been key pilgrimage destinations for centuries is awe-inspiring. Pushkar tourism is at its peak and it can get a bit crowded during the Pushkar fair but the experience is worth cherishing. The rides are safely undertaken twice a day, at 5:00 a.m. and 4.30 p.m. This activity in Pushkar is quite expensive. The hot air balloon ride price in Pushkar is INR 15,000. The hot air balloon ride duration is 1 to 2 hours.
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Best time to visit: October to November
Jaipur
Floating above the magnificent expanse of a culturally rich city over some of the most gorgeous and breathtaking palaces, Havelis, buildings, and forts is an incredible experience. One of the most popular diversions for tourists from India and beyond is hot air balloon rides in the ‘Pink City of Jaipur. A hot air balloon ride price in Jaipur can be anything between INR 6,000 and INR 12,000, while a special ride can cost significantly more.
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Nonetheless, Jaipur tourism involves seeing the spectacular sight of forts, palaces, and colorful bazaars. It is one of the must-do activities while visiting the capital of India’s most scenic North-Western state.
Best time to visit: September to November.
Agra
Agra is the best destination for a hot air balloon ride in India. The hot air balloon ride in Agra is offered at the Taj Mahal, and it is one of the most romantic excursions that tourists may take in India. The breathtaking vista of the most majestic Mughal monuments, accented by the surreal sight of the Taj Mahal in all its splendor, is indescribable.
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The balloon is a low-height suspended helium device that climbs to roughly 500 meters above the ground, providing a breathtaking and up-close view of these great ruins. It’s a wonderful journey for honeymooners or couples in love who want to say those magical three words and proclaim their eternal love high above the universal emblem of this precious emotion. The cost of the hot air balloon ride is INR 500 to INR 750. The duration of the hot air balloon ride is about 30 to 45 minutes. This ride is what sums up Agra tourism.
Best time to visit: April to November
Manali
Manali, India’s honeymoon capital, is also one of the best spots in India for a hot air balloon flight due to its geography. Manali is nestled between the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar hills, providing passengers with an unforgettable hot air balloon ride over lush green valleys and the snow-capped Himalayas. In Manali, a hot air balloon tour is equivalent to leaping out of an airplane. Make sure you don’t miss out on these adventure sports during your Himachal vacation. The hours are 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. And the price for this hot air balloon ride is INR 1,200 per person.
Best time to visit: December to February
Darjeeling
The hot air balloon ride in Darjeeling is a new and developing activity among the other adventure activities available to tourists in Darjeeling. Darjeeling balloons have a lift of about 300 feet, and a single ride requires a minimum of 15 people. It usually operates between the hours of 4:00 pm and 6:00 p.m. in the evenings, and from the month of October to May, when the weather and visibility are much better. Tourists can experience the ride for a reasonably low price here. A single ride, for example, generally costs INR 1,500 per person. Take part in this thrilling and wonderful effort to make your Darjeeling tourism even more enjoyable and adventurous.
Best time to visit: October to May
Read More: 50 Top Honeymoon Destinations In India
Karnataka:
The structures and cave sites of Hampi are well-known across the world, and what better way to see them than from hundreds of meters above the ground? Hot Air Ballooning is quickly becoming popular in Karnataka and preferred pastime adventure and leisure sport for people of all ages, as it provides the ideal atmosphere for a tranquil and calming time raised above the West Coast of India. The passenger balloon in Karnataka reaches a height of 500 meters. The host agency costs between INR 8,000 and 12,000 per person, providing a fantastic opportunity for a fun-filled and adventurous vacation. The duration of the balloon ride varies according to the price package.
Best time to visit: April to October
Kamshet, Lonavala
Hot air balloon rides in Kamshet are accessible near Lonavala, which is less than 100 kilometers from Mumbai, and are a perfect vacation and recreation for Mumbai residents and visitors. Riders can enjoy the surrounding gorgeous scenery in the cool, fresh air, as well as the quaint views of dawn and sunset, which begin early in the morning and late in the evening. Lonavala tourism and its environs are a picturesque small getaway town with dense flora, sturdy forts, caverns, lakes, and dams, all of which are extremely tempting to admire from high above the ground. The hot air balloon ride price in Kamshet starts from INR 6,000.
Best time to visit: October to March
Bhopal
Balloon rides depart from Jeet Stadium in Bhopal, often known as the “City of Lakes,” and take about two hours to complete. Hot air ballooning in Bhopal, India is right now in its infancy. Furthermore, this is a city-based seasonal activity that only occurs when the wind and weather conditions are favorable. Typically, travelers are picked up from their homes and dropped off once the activity is over. It’s one of Bhopal tourism’s most pleasurable and adrenaline-pumping activities. INR 14,000 per person is required for a ride.
Best time to visit: October to March
Goa
One of the nicest things to do in Goa in the summer and winter is to take a magnificent hot air balloon ride above the sea. While perched in a warm hot air multicolored balloon, you’ll appreciate taking in panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. You’ll get the opportunity to travel across the sky in a huge luxury basket with your friends, family, or girlfriend/boyfriend. Light onsite refreshments are included in the hot air ballooning package and will satisfy your hunger before the activity. Prepare your camera for stunning sea cliff photography. Up to 10 passengers can ride in a single hot air balloon basket. A private hot air balloon journey is really expensive up to INR 5,5000.
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Best time to visit: March to October
Delhi
Escape the hustle and bustle of Delhi with your family and take to the skies in privacy. An enjoyable family holiday experience is watching sunrise or sunset balloons soar across weekend getaway places like Neemrana and Dam Dama Lake. Around Delhi and Haryana, a few certified hot air balloon firms offer hot air balloon trips. The price of this ride is from INR 9000 to INR 13000. The cost of a hot air balloon flight is determined by how long you want to stay in the air, whether you want a private cruising experience or a general ride with other passengers. Government-approved hot air safari businesses include Sky Waltz and Tiger Balloon Safari. When do you intend to sail through the sky?
Best time to visit: March to October
Jaisalmer
This Rajasthani town is rich in tradition and legacy, and a hot air balloon flight here will give you a bird’s-eye view of the state. The government has permitted hot air balloon safari operators to fly above the glistening lakes and stately forts. The air safari is available in two shifts: in the morning and the evening. If you’re planning a weekend trip to Jaisalmer from Delhi, hot air ballooning is one of the best activities to do with your loved ones. Did we mention that the optimum time for captivating Instagram-worthy photos is during sunset and sunshine? The hot air balloon ride costs from INR 6000 to INR 12000.
Best time to visit: March to October
Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Seeing the Himalayan foothills from the basket of a multicolored hot air balloon as the sun rises or sets is an unforgettable experience during your Uttarakhand tourism. Beyond the conventional river rafting adventure, take a hot air balloon ride in the ‘Yoga Capital of India.’ Bring your binoculars and video cameras to capture the beauty of Shivalik Valley from such a high altitude. The cost of this ride starts from INR 6000.
The scenery on a balloon safari is straight out of a movie scene, with beautiful green valleys and the snow-capped Himalayas that seem so exquisite and leave no stone unturned to fascinate the visitors. The spectacular view of the Holy Ganges and its surrounds are available from the balloon basket.
Best time to visit: March to October
Things to Keep in Mind
Aren’t there a lot of options? But, before you fly to one of India’s greatest hot air ballooning sites, keep the following points in mind:
- Don’t forget to do your homework on the rides and their characteristics so you don’t have any reservations about going on vacation.
- Mild winds are ideal for hot air ballooning, but you should avoid flying in windy conditions.
- Keep an eye out for spires, wires, and other protruding stuff as the balloon descends. Make sure you land on a level surface.
Conclusion
With so many hot air balloon companies springing up across the country, you can now travel to some of the country’s most desirable and hidden locations and have the experience of your life. You can also get discounts for children because most agencies offer discounts to youngsters under the age of a specific age.
And talking about discounts, we almost forgot to inform you about the best deals and offers on hotel bookings we provide on our website, HotelDekho.com. Hence, you keep calm about the question of where to stay while going to different places for hot air balloon rides in India!
FAQ:
1- Are hot air balloon rides in India safe?
Yes, obviously hot air balloon rides in India are safe. There have been very less incidents when it comes to balloon rides.
2- Which hot air balloon rides in India provide the best view?
The hot air balloon rides of Agra, Jaipur, Goa, and Pushkar provide the best view.
3- How much is the cost of a hot air balloon ride in India?
The hot air balloon ride in India can cost anywhere from INR 500 to INR 55,000. It depends on the location and the service providers.
4- Where can we enjoy India’s cheapest hot air balloon ride?
The cheapest hot air balloon ride in India can be enjoyed in Agra. The price ranges from INR 500 to INR 750.
5- Why do they weigh a person before a hot air balloon ride?
They weigh each person going for a hot air balloon ride to ensure that the weight is within a suitable range.
6- What is the best time to ride a hot air balloon?
The best time to ride a hot air balloon is either during the sunrise or the sunset.
7- Who should avoid riding a hot air balloon?
People who have a fear of height, don’t like the sight of fire burning, or the ones who are overweight should avoid going on hot air balloon rides.
