Take a Hot Air Balloon Flight in India

Hot air ballooning is a relatively new adventure activity in India, but one that's fast growing in popularity. It's a thrilling way to experience India and get a different perspective of the country. Imagine having a calm and peaceful view of India's breathtaking scenery from a quiet place high above the crowds. Hot air ballooning isn't as scary as you may imagine either. It actually feels like you're as light as a feather as you float though the sky.The desert state of Rajasthan is the most popular place for hot air ballooning in India. Flights operate from the Pink City of Jaipur, the holy town of Pushkar, and Ranthambore National Park . View wild animals at Ranthambore from the safey of a hot air balloon, or get a bird's eye view of the Pushkar Camel Fair! It's also often possible to go hot air ballooning around greater New Delhi and in the mountains, around Manali, in India's northern state of Himachal Pradesh.The leading company that provides hot air balloon flights in India is Sky Waltz. The company's flights are operated by fully qualified and experienced international pilots from the UK and USA. Wanderlust Travels organizes balloon flight packages. The Balloon Club of India in New Delhi (Ph: +91 11 2331 7977. Email: balloonindia@yahoo.com) also organizes the India International Hot Air Balloon Mela in November each year. It's a balloon fair where joyrides are possible. The Club runs special balloon trips and customized packages for clients as well. Fancy getting married in India in a hot air balloon? It is possible!Unfortunately hot air ballooning isn't cheap! Prices range from $350 to $450 per flight. Flights usually last for a hour.Balloon flights generally operate from mid September to the end of March, while the weather is dry and not too hot. Flights leave early in the morning as the sun rises, and also in the evening before sunset. You should plan to set aside around 4 hours for your flight, including travel to and from your hotel. The ballooning company will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to where the flight will depart from.Hot air ballooning is an adventure activity, so do wear sturdy footwear. Depending on the time of year you go, a jacket might also be necessary as it can get chilly early in the morning. A cap and sunglasses may come in handy too.