Hot Air Balloon in Manali: Floating Above the Himalayas

Some adventures leave you breathless with adrenaline, while others make you pause in awe. My hot air balloon ride in Manali was a mix of both. As the balloon gently rose into the crisp Himalayan air, I watched the Beas River glisten below, pine forests stretch endlessly, and snow-clad peaks stand tall against the sky. For a moment, it felt like time had stopped, and I was suspended between earth and sky.

If you think Manali is only about trekking, paragliding, or snow adventures, you’re in for a surprise. The hot air balloon experience here is magical and far less talked about, making it one of the most unique things to do in Himachal.

Why Hot Air Ballooning in Manali Feels Magical

Unlike paragliding, which gives you a rush, hot air ballooning is about serenity. As the balloon ascends, there’s no engine noise, no sudden jerks—just the sound of wind and the occasional roar of the burner.

The ride offers a 360-degree view of Manali’s landscapes—rolling apple orchards, shimmering rivers, tiny wooden houses dotting the valley, and the mighty Pir Panjal range in the distance. From above, the chaos of life seems far away, and everything looks peaceful, almost like a painting.

It’s not just about adventure; it’s about perspective. Floating silently above the Himalayas makes you realize how vast and beautiful this world really is.

Where to Experience Hot Air Ballooning in Manali

Hot air balloon rides in Manali usually happen in Dobhi, Solang Valley, and Marhi.

• Dobhi (around 22 km from Manali) is one of the most popular take-off points, with wide open spaces and stunning valley views.
• Solang Valley is known for adventure sports, and some operators offer balloon rides here too.
• Marhi, on the way to Rohtang Pass, is another scenic location with panoramic mountain views.

I went for the Dobhi launch site, and the wide valley below made the views unforgettable.

My Experience on the Ride

We started early in the morning, when the skies were clear, and the winds were calm. Watching the crew inflate the giant balloon was fascinating—it felt like watching a colorful beast slowly wake up.

Once inside the basket, my heart raced as the ground drifted away. Within minutes, we were soaring above the valley. Below me, I saw the Beas River winding like a silver ribbon, tiny cars moving on mountain roads, and locals waving as dots from the fields.

The best part? The silence. Unlike other adventure sports, hot air ballooning doesn’t rush you—it slows you down. Up there, floating among clouds, I felt a sense of peace I hadn’t experienced in a long time.

The ride lasted about 7–10 minutes, but honestly, it felt timeless.

Best Time to Try Hot Air Balloon in Manali

The ride is highly dependent on weather conditions, so choosing the right season matters.

• Best Season: March to June (spring/summer) and September to early November (post-monsoon, before heavy winter snow).
• Timing: Early morning and late afternoon flights are best, as winds are calmer and skies clearer.

During monsoons (July–August) and peak winters (December–February), balloon rides are usually not available due to safety concerns.

Cost of Hot Air Ballooning in Manali

The price can vary depending on the operator, location, and duration. On average:

• Short Ride (7–10 mins): ₹1,200–₹1,800 per person
• Longer Ride (15–20 mins): ₹3,000–₹4,500 per person

I went for the shorter ride, and it was worth every penny. If you’re with friends or family, some operators even offer group discounts.

Safety, Tips, and What to Expect

I was nervous before the ride, but the crew made me feel completely safe. Here’s what you should know:

• Safety First: Always book with licensed operators. Rides are weather-dependent, so be prepared for cancellations or reschedules.
• What to Wear: Comfortable clothes, a light jacket, and sports shoes. The basket can get warm near the burner, so avoid bulky outfits.
• For Families: Kids above 5–6 years can usually join. Pregnant women and people with serious health conditions should avoid it.
• Photography: Carry a phone strap or GoPro. The aerial shots are breathtaking, but you wouldn’t want your phone dropping into the valley!

Beyond the Balloon: Nearby Attractions

Since hot air balloon rides are short, you can easily club them with other adventures around Manali:

• Paragliding in Solang Valley: For those seeking more thrill.
• River Rafting in Beas River (Dobhi/Kullu): A great post-balloon adventure.
• Naggar Castle & Art Gallery: Perfect for history and culture lovers.
• Rohtang Pass: If you’re visiting in summer, the snow-filled landscapes are unmissable.

Why This Experience Stays With You

As we touched down gently in the meadow, I couldn’t help but smile. The ride may have been short, but it left me with a long-lasting memory. Unlike the rush of other adventure sports, the hot air balloon ride was about calmness, perspective, and seeing Manali from a completely different angle.

It’s not just an activity—it’s an experience of stillness in motion, of floating above a world that looks far more peaceful from the sky.

So, if you’re planning a trip to Manali, don’t just stick to the usual treks and paragliding. Give hot air ballooning a try—you’ll come back with stories that few travelers have experienced.