Hot Air Balloon in Manali: A Magical Flight Above the Himalayas

Adventure in the mountains often means trekking, skiing, or paragliding, but my most surreal moment in Manali didn’t involve rushing through trails or gliding across ridges. Instead, it came when I stepped into the wicker basket of a hot air balloon and gently rose above the valley. Below me, the Beas River sparkled like liquid silver, pine forests stretched endlessly, and snow-dusted peaks stood tall in the distance. For a few quiet minutes, I wasn’t just in the Himalayas—I was floating above them.

If you’re planning a trip to Himachal Pradesh and want to experience something unique, the hot air balloon ride in Manali is a memory worth making. It blends thrill with tranquility, offering a perspective of the mountains you can’t get from the ground.

Why Hot Air Ballooning in Manali Feels Special

Unlike paragliding or rafting, which pump your adrenaline, hot air ballooning is about slowing down and savoring the view. As the balloon lifts, you leave behind the noise of roads and rivers and enter a world of silence, interrupted only by the occasional hiss of the burner.

From up there, Manali transforms into a canvas. Apple orchards look like little green patches, houses resemble toy huts, and the mountains seem endless. The Pir Panjal range dominates the horizon, and if you go in the early morning, mist often curls across the valley, adding a dreamlike quality.

It’s not a very long ride—usually about 7–15 minutes depending on the package—but it leaves you with a sense of wonder that lasts much longer.

How to Reach the Hot Air Balloon Sites

Hot air balloon rides aren’t available everywhere in Manali. The main launch sites are a short drive away, making them easy to reach:

Dobhi: Around 20–22 km from Manali on the road toward Kullu, this is the most popular spot with open meadows and sweeping valley views.

Solang Valley: Known for adventure sports, Solang occasionally hosts balloon rides, especially during peak tourist season.

Marhi: Situated en route to Rohtang Pass, Marhi offers another scenic location, though availability depends on weather and operators.

I chose Dobhi, and the drive itself was stunning—twisting roads, glimpses of the river, and fields dotted with wildflowers. When we reached, the sight of the balloon being inflated against the mountain backdrop felt magical in itself.

My Experience Up in the Sky

Watching the crew prepare the balloon was half the fun. Flames roared into the fabric, the colorful canopy slowly took shape, and soon the giant balloon towered above us. Climbing into the basket, I felt a rush of excitement mixed with nervousness.

The take-off was surprisingly smooth. One moment we were on the ground, and the next we were drifting upward. People below looked like tiny specks waving at us, and the valley unfolded in every direction.

What struck me most was the peacefulness of the ride. Unlike paragliding, where you’re constantly aware of movement, the balloon just glided with the wind. It gave me time to soak in every detail—the glistening river, the tiny clusters of villages, and the mountains layered one after another like an endless painting.

When the balloon slowly descended back to the meadow, I realized I hadn’t just ticked off an activity—I had collected a memory that would stay with me forever.

Best Time to Experience Hot Air Balloon in Manali

Weather plays a huge role in hot air ballooning, and not every season is suitable.

The best time is from March to June and September to early November, when skies are clearer, winds are calmer, and temperatures are pleasant.

During monsoons (July–August), balloon rides are usually suspended because of unpredictable weather and safety concerns. Winter months (December–February) also see limited activity due to snow and harsh winds, though occasionally operators offer rides if conditions are favorable.

Morning flights are the most rewarding, with calmer winds and misty views. Evening flights, if available, are equally enchanting as the sun sets behind the mountains.

Budgeting and Practical Details

One of the reasons I loved this experience is that it’s accessible without burning a hole in your pocket. Compared to long-haul balloon rides in places like Jaipur, Manali offers shorter, more affordable options.

Short Ride (7–10 minutes): ₹1,200–₹1,800 per person

Longer Ride (15–20 minutes): ₹3,000–₹4,500 per person

Costs vary depending on the operator, season, and whether you book directly or through a travel agency. Advance booking is recommended during weekends and holidays, as slots fill quickly.

Safety is always a priority—operators are licensed, and rides are weather-dependent. Don’t be surprised if your flight gets delayed or rescheduled; it’s better to wait for perfect conditions than to risk a bumpy ride.

Travel Tips and Local Advice

A few small tips can make your balloon ride smoother and more enjoyable:

Wear comfortable clothing and shoes—you’ll be standing in the basket for the duration.

Carry a light jacket. Even in summer, mornings in the valley can feel chilly.

If you’re afraid of heights, don’t worry. The ride is gentle and less intimidating than paragliding.

Bring a phone strap or GoPro. You’ll definitely want to capture the views, and you don’t want your phone slipping out of your hands mid-air.

Combine the ride with nearby adventures—river rafting in Dobhi, paragliding in Solang, or a day trip to Naggar Castle or Rohtang Pass.

Suggested Itinerary for a Day Around the Balloon Ride

If you’re visiting Manali for a few days, a hot air balloon ride can easily fit into your schedule. Here’s how I planned my day:

Early Morning: Drive to Dobhi for the balloon ride.

Midday: Enjoy a riverside lunch near Kullu or explore Naggar village.

Afternoon: Head to Solang Valley for paragliding or zorbing.

Evening: Return to Manali town, stroll around the Mall Road, and unwind at a café.

This way, you get a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation—all in one day.

Why This Experience Stays With You

When people think of Manali, they imagine snowy slopes, paragliding thrills, or the bustling Mall Road. But for me, the hot air balloon ride stood out as something truly extraordinary. It gave me a chance to see the mountains from a perspective most travelers miss.

Floating silently above the valley, I realized that adventure doesn’t always have to be about speed or height—it can also be about slowing down, taking a breath, and letting the mountains reveal themselves in their own rhythm.

If you’re planning your next trip to Himachal, add this to your list. Trust me, the memory of drifting among the clouds above Manali will stay with you long after you’ve left the valley.