Rajasthan, the barren yet lively desert state of India, is renowned for its majestic palaces, rich culture, and lively celebrations. One particularly unique event that excites thousands of tourists from around the world about the Rajasthan tour package is the Hot Air Balloon Festival. These festivals offer a fresh perspective on the beauty of Rajasthan, with colourful hot air balloons gracing the sky and creating an unforgettable spectacle.
In this guide, we will walk you through the top hot air balloon festivals in the Land of Deserts and provide you with all the information you need to know about them.
Pushkar International Balloon Festival
The Pushkar International Balloon Festival is one of the most renowned and eagerly awaited hot air balloon festivals in the state. Hosted in the sacred town of Pushkar, this festival draws balloonists from across the globe. Beyond the amazing hot air balloons, the event brings diverse cultural activities, musical performances, and a lively market. Opting for a hot air balloon ride during the festival provides a breathtaking view of Pushkar Lake and the surrounding desert landscape.
Cost
The price for a hot air balloon ride during the Pushkar International Balloon Festival starts at INR 10,000 per person.
Timings
The festival, similar to the fair, follows the lunar calendar for its schedule. When the balloon festival kicks off, the majority of camel trading and activities have usually ended. At this point, the fairgrounds are typically filled with festivities.
The hot air balloon tours are organized by fully licensed operators, with two flights typically scheduled each day during the festival. The first flight takes place at 5 am, and the second at 4:30 pm. Opting for the morning flight is often considered the best choice, as the wind is calm, and weather conditions are more manageable after sunrise. Also, the morning flight offers the opportunity to witness the beautiful sunrise over Ajmer.
Location
The Pushkar International Balloon Festival is held at the Pushkar Fair Grounds in Pushkar. Get a Volvo Bus on Rent in Delhi and reach the destination hassle-free.
Rajasthan International Balloon Festival
The Rajasthan International Balloon Festival is a magnificent event hosted in the picturesque city of Jaipur. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Amber Fort, this festival provides captivating views of the fort and the Aravalli hills. With hot air balloon rides, cultural performances, live music, and various food stalls, the festival offers a diverse range of experiences. The night glow event, where balloons are illuminated in harmony with music, creates a magical spectacle and thus stands out as the highlight. Families and friends arriving in Pushkar with Bus Hire in Delhi will get to spend unforgettable moments in Pink City.
Cost
The starting price for a hot air balloon ride during the Rajasthan International Balloon Festival is INR 12,000 per person.
Timings
The hot air balloon rides are typically scheduled two hours before sunrise and two hours after sunset. These timings are preferable for the hot air balloon ride, as the winds are relatively calm. The usual timings for the hot air balloon activity are 5:30 AM during April-June (with no evening rides due to intense heat), 6:15 AM and 4:00 PM from September to November, and 6:45 AM and 3:30 PM from December to March.
Location
The hot air balloon activity takes place from various locations in Jaipur, including Amber Fort, Jal Mahal, Shiv Vilas, and Delhi-Jaipur Road. The specific site may vary depending on the direction of the wind. The pilot decides the take-off location, prioritizing the safety of passengers.
Panghat Festival
The Panghat Festival is an annual hot-air balloon festival hosted in the city of Kota. What sets this festival apart is its combination of the traditional Indian sport of Kushti (wrestling) alongside hot air balloon rides. The balloons offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Chambal River, Kota Barrage, and the Kota Garh Palace. Also, the festival provides various adventure activities such as zip-lining, ATV rides, and boating.
Cost
The starting price for a hot air balloon ride during the Panghat Festival is INR 8,000 per person.
Timings
The Panghat Festival in Rajasthan typically occurs during the Holi festival, which usually falls in March. Exact timings may vary each year, so one should check the specific schedule closer to the date.
Location
The Panghat Festival occurs at traditional water bodies in Rajasthan.
Booking A Hot Balloon Ride
To book a hot air balloon ride for these festivals, you can use their official websites or get in touch with the event organizers directly. It is recommended to make your reservation well in advance, as slots tend to fill up rapidly during these festivals.
Tips for the Hot Balloon Ride
- Wear comfortable clothing in layers, as temperatures may vary at higher altitudes.
- Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat to shield yourself from the sun.
- Ensure your camera or phone is fully charged to capture the breathtaking aerial views.
- Arrive early to undergo a smooth check-in process and avoid any last-minute rush.
- Adhere to safety instructions provided by the pilot and crew members for a secure and enjoyable experience.
Ride Duration and Other Details
Balloon rides typically last around 3 hours, although the actual duration is subject to the weather conditions. Factors such as temperature and wind force can influence the safe distance and duration of a hot air balloon ride. Generally, hot air balloons fly at an altitude of around 1,2000 feet, depending on the topography and weather conditions during the flight. While weather conditions are usually ideal during this time of the year, visitors will be informed if the weather does not permit a balloon ride at the scheduled time.
Conclusion
Feel the culture of Rajasthan from the skies by participating in one of the hot air balloon festivals. Whether it is the Pushkar International Balloon Festival, Rajasthan International Balloon Festival, or the Panghat Festival, each event promises an unforgettable adventure. Secure your tickets, step into the basket, and allow the hot air balloon to carry you on a captivating journey over the vast landscapes. Share this blog post with friends and fellow travellers who would love the thrilling hot-air balloon festivals!