6 Best Hot Air Balloon Rides In India For A Sky-High Adventure

Picture this: You're floating thousands of feet above the ground, with the world spread out below like a giant, colourful canvas. The sun is rising, painting the sky in shades of gold and pink, while the silence is broken only by the occasional whoosh of the burner. If that sounds like your kind of thrill, then hot air ballooning in India needs to be on your bucket list. From royal forts and desert landscapes to lush green valleys and historic cities, India offers some of the most breathtaking aerial views. Whether you're chasing romance, adventure, or just an unbeatable Instagram shot, these are the best places to take to the skies.

Also Read: 6 Offbeat Getaways In Himachal Perfect For A Quiet Escape

Here Are 6 Hot Air Balloon Experiences In India:

Jaipur. Photo: iStock

1. Jaipur, Rajasthan

Jaipur is already a visual delight with its grand palaces, bustling bazaars, and pink-hued streets. But seeing it from above? That's next level. A hot air balloon ride here takes you over Amber Fort, the Aravalli Hills, and tiny Rajasthani villages waking up to a new day. The contrast of golden sandstone against the early morning light is nothing short of magical.
Why: Gliding over a UNESCO-listed fort at sunrise feels like stepping into a fairy tale.
Best Time To Go: October to April

2. Pushkar, Rajasthan

If you time it right, a hot air balloon ride over Pushkar during the annual Camel Fair in November is pure magic. The entire town turns into a carnival of colours, with thousands of camels, musicians, and traders gathered in one place. Even if you miss the fair, the view of Pushkar Lake, the holy temples, and the rolling dunes is worth waking up early for.
Why: There's nothing quite like floating above a festival buzzing with life.
Best Time To Go: October to March (especially during the Camel Fair)

Pushkar. Photo: iStock

3. Goa

Think Goa is just about beaches and parties? Think again. A hot air balloon ride here takes you away from the crowded shores and gives you a bird's-eye view of lush coconut groves, winding rivers, and sleepy villages. If you're lucky, you might even spot a dolphin or two from above.
Why: The contrast of deep green landscapes against the blue sea is postcard-perfect.
Best Time To Go: October to May

4. Jispa, Himachal Pradesh

If the idea of soaring above the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas excites you, Jispa is the place to be. This tiny, picturesque village on the Manali-Leh highway offers breathtaking aerial views of rugged mountains, winding rivers, and endless valleys. As you drift over the dramatic landscape, you'll feel like you're on top of the world-literally.
Best Time To Go: May to September
Why: The fresh mountain air and panoramic views of the Himalayas make this a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Agra. Photo: iStock

4. Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Yes, the Taj Mahal is breathtaking from the ground, but have you seen it from 3,000 feet up? A hot air balloon ride in Agra lets you take in the world's most famous monument from a whole new angle. The Yamuna River, the bustling city, and the shimmering white marble below make for a spectacular sight.
Why: It's hands down the most unique way to admire India's most iconic landmark.
Best Time To Go: October to March

5. Hampi, Karnataka

Hampi is already a dreamscape of boulder-strewn landscapes, ancient temples, and winding rivers. Now imagine seeing all of that from above. A hot air balloon ride over this UNESCO World Heritage Site lets you soak in the grandeur of Vijayanagara's ruins, with the Tungabhadra River snaking through the golden terrain. It's history and adventure rolled into one.
Why: The aerial view of Hampi's surreal rock formations and temple ruins is unforgettable.
Best Time To Go: November to February