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