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There’s something truly magical about floating through the air in a giant hot air balloon. The air caresses your hair, the land bows down, and one gets drawn into the present moment, away from the shackles of daily life. According to the Ministry of Tourism’s 2024-25 annual report, India saw a sharp increase in bookings and footfall for adventure tourism activities, such as hot-air ballooning. Here are five Indian states where you can hop onto these giant air-filled wonders and fly high!
What happens when you add together adventure, history, and nature? An unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime experience, indeed. Rajasthan offers hot air ballooning in the capital city of Jaipur and the cultural haven Puskar. While the former allows visitors to enjoy the bustling markets, colourful festivals, and majestic forts from above, the vast stretches of desert in Pushkar remind one of the triviality of human existence. It is especially popular during the annual camel fair.
Price Range: ₹6,000–12,000
Best Time to Visit: September to November and February to April for comfortable weather.
Special Criteria: Advance booking is recommended; festival seasons can be busier, and rides may be weather-dependent.
Lonavala and Kamshet are well known for their lush greenery, valleys, and waterfalls. Hot air ballooning over this breathtaking landscape allows tourists to admire its beauty up close. Popular destinations like Pawna Lake, Bhushi Dam, Tiger’s Leap, and Duke’s Nose can be spotted during the ride. The Western Ghats offer stunning panoramic views, especially during the post-monsoon season when the hills are green and misty. The rides typically last an hour and are managed by trained pilots, ensuring safety throughout.
Price Range: ₹7,000–12,000
Best Time to Visit: October to May for stable winds and pleasant weather.
Special Criteria: Minimum age and height restrictions may apply; bookings during peak season fill up fast.
Just like Rajasthan, Karnataka also offers a blend of history and nature, with hot-air balloon rides over the ancient temple ruins of Hampi. The surreal aerial views are dotted with gigantic boulders, mesmerising riverbanks, and gorgeous temples. Another popular city is Mysore, which offers flights over its royal palaces and manicured gardens, adding a regal charm to your adventure.
Price Range: ₹6,000–11,000
Best Time to Visit: October to February, avoiding the summer heat.
Special Criteria: Limited group sizes to protect the environment; advanced booking advisable.
Taj Mahal and the centuries-old ghats of Banaras rank high on the list of any tourist heading to Uttar Pradesh. This beautiful experience gets further enhanced when witnessing these wonders, floating through air. The experience is especially magical during sunrise and sunset. Don’t think twice before heading for this wonderful experience.
Price Range: ₹500–15,000 (depending on location and flight duration)
Best Time to Visit: October to March for clear skies.
Special Criteria: Certain routes near the Taj Mahal require special permits; rides may be seasonal due to weather.
The stunning hills, snow-capped peaks, and lush valleys of Uttarakhand provide a perfect backdrop for hot-air balloon rides. Floating above Nainital’s beautiful Naini Lake or drifting over the calm Ganges in Rishikesh, these rides offer a peaceful escape. Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquillity, or a touch of spirituality, Uttarakhand’s landscapes turn every hot air balloon ride into a memorable journey above nature’s beauty.
Price Range: ₹7,500–13,000
Best Time to Visit: October to March, during cooler, clear weather.
Special Criteria: Ballooning is seasonal due to weather and altitude.
