Six places to take your Valentine on a hot-air balloon ride in India!

Make this Valentine’s Day extra, extra special… take to the skies to declare your undying love and enjoy an adventurous yet romantic getaway on the newest rage in India – hot air ballooning. Though it might just burn a small hole in your pocket, the experience is going to be absolutely worth it. After all, what can beat seeing the love of your life with the world literally at their feet. So if you are among the lucky few who happen to be living in or near any of the cities mentioned below, this year, instead of crouching in the dark and jostling for space with a hundred other lovestruck twosomes in a restaurant, club or disco, try slow dancing in the clouds. The only possible spoiler: the plan’s going to be totally weather dependent. So it’s not just Cupid, but also the weather gods who’ll have a say on that special day.

Rajasthan

Jaipur was among the first few Indian cities to introduce hot air ballooning.  Depending on the direction of the winds, you’ll either be able to enjoy the scenic beauty of sleepy little villages or the amazing monuments that so define the Desert State. Either way, this is going to give you a fresh new perspective on the city. Other tourist destinations like Jodhpur, Pushkar, Ranthambore and Jaisalmer also offer hot air ballooning.

Karnataka

Hot air ballooning has become the talk of the heritage town of Hampi and a regular affair during the annual cultural extravaganza, the Hampi Utsav. A few adventure sports companies offer the experience round the year. Imagine being there up in sky when the first rays of the sun shine on the world famous Vijaya Vittala temple and slowly illuminate the majestic ruins. Evenings are also a great time to meander through the heavens, when you will be treated to a magnificent view of sunset over the Tungabhadra river. Also watch out for hot air ballooning experiences in Bangalore and Mysore, organized on special occasions and cultural festivals.

Maharashtra

Float over the valleys and discover a new way to enjoy this tourist hotspot. A bird’s eye view of picturesque Lonavala is a visual straight out of those fairy tales you read in your childhood. Add to this the beautiful climate, and you will be enraptured in a magical moment-for-two.

West Bengal

The flame roars dragon-like, the breezes are gentle, the views panoramic. If you’re unsure of the adventure involved in a hot air balloon flight, tour operators offer a tethered hot air balloon experience, so that you and your better half are stuck in a timeless moment that you will both remember forever.

Himachal Pradesh

In addition to adventure sports like jeep safaris, paragliding, and skiing, hot air ballooning is becoming big in Manali. From youngsters to couples on honeymoon, and families who love adventure, everyone is eager to savour this new experience. The view of the snow-capped mountains, green valleys and pristine rivers is definitely beyond breath-taking.

If you’re interested in making a booking, there’re plenty of tour operators to choose from. Sky Waltz and Wanderlust India are among the more popular ones. The price often ranges between INR 9,000 and INR 15,000 per person for an hour, extending to a maximum of two hours.

A few tour operators and adventure companies also offer full refunds in case of unfavourable weather. So do some thorough research before finalizing any deal. But once you have, it’s definitely going to be an experience of a lifetime. So go fly free… this Valentine’s Day!