Adventurous You
Flying High
We had seen in it mainly movies wherein the male actor would propose to his female lead in a hot air balloon, floating through the clouds in some exotic foreign location. It was still a rarity in India until a while back, wherein the experience could only be enjoyed at a handful of places – but the fever has gripped the nation and hot air ballooning can be experienced in many parts of the country today.
A
big gigantic colourful balloon carrying a small cane basket with a handful of people in it( usually couple) floating above the ground level... sailing through the clouds and watching some scenic sights below – yes that’ s what hot air ballooning is all about. And contrary to what many of you believe, it is not really an over-expensive indulgence. Here’ s a look at the various places in India where Hot Air Ballooning can best be enjoyed.
Delhi NCR and Haryana
While Delhi certainly is too crowded( even up in the air) to give you a hot air balloon experience, the NCR certainly makes up for it. You can now enjoy a hot air balloon ride up above the swanky and starry atmosphere of the national capital. Ballooning is an experience which is not to be rushed! One should allocate approximately 3 to 4 hours for the
Priyanka Saxena Ray
whole experience, where the actual time in the air is approximately an hour. On request, some of the companies offering the experience can cover places such as Neemrana, Damdama Lake, Greater Noida, Sohna Village and Manesar( minimum 20 people). The feeling of floating over the tranquil waters of the Damdama Lake or over the mesmerising fort of Neemrana is best left to experience.
Estimated height: Max 5000 feet Estimated time: Approx 1 hour Cost: Around Rs 9000-13000 per person which actually varies from one hot-air ballooning company to another You can book via: Sky Waltz, Roof n Ride, Wanderlust Travels or Rock Sport Adventures
Goa
Goa is the one stop destination for party lovers and honeymoon couples alike. Every year large number of people visit the city to enjoy the colourful landscapes and serene beaches. While the wild parties are one aspect of this youth destination, the calm environs with cheerful hot air balloons floating in the air is another romantic aspect of the destination. There is nothing quite like the uplifting sensation of a hot air balloon ride. The gentle sway of the balloon borne upon the winds, with a panorama, a bird’ s eye view surroundings of Goa is an amazing experience. The 360 degree field of vision and the weightless sensation of being lifted off your feet, can only be experienced in a hot air balloon. Hot air balloon rides in Goa can make these moments even more meaningful.
Estimated height: 4000 feet Estimated time: Approx 1 hour Cost: Around R9000 – 14000 per person Book via: Balloon Club, The Balloon Safaris and Adventure Nation
36 destination exotica | february 2017