Mesmerizing surroundings with a picturesque view from 1000 feet above the ground. This is a memorable experience for life that visitors will make with the hot air balloon ride in Nepal.
History of Hot Air Balloons in Nepal
Balloon Nepal began its hot air balloon services in Pokhara on November 17th, 2018. Today, Balloon Nepal is the only hot air balloon in service in Nepal. However, for Kathmandu Valley residents since the 1900s, this is not the first time they have seen a hot air balloon flying over them. The story of a hot air balloon in Nepal starts in 1991, after two foreigners did an expedition to fly over Mount Everest. The service was then active for commercial purposes but later stopped for various reasons.
But before the termination, hot air balloons soared over the Kathmandu Valley for almost a decade. It flew over various places, including Nasiksthan Sanga, Changunarayan, and Nagarkot.
Reasons for a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Nepal
A hot air balloon ride undoubtedly offers an incredible experience. Let us further explore the reasons for going on a hot air balloon ride in Nepal.
Excitement of the Ride
The sheer activity of riding a hot air balloon fills the rider with joy and excitement. The feeling of going 1,000 feet up in the sky and realising the vastness of the land while looking below is like nothing else.
Enjoy the View
A hot air balloon provides an opportunity to get a complete 360° view of the snake-like rivers, glistening banks, immense forest, and eye-catching snow-capped mountains in a single sitting.
Picturesque Scene
Individuals who love natural scenery become obsessed with the stunning landscape from hot air balloons during sunrise and sunset. A hot air balloon ride in Nepal also serves as the perfect place for the most beautiful photographs one has ever seen.
Pokhara Tour
A hot air balloon ride offers an eagle-eye view of the entire Pokhara. Travelers can witness the natural richness of the land and the beauty of its religious monuments. They can watch the different people adhering to their culture as they follow their daily routines.
Hot Air Balloon Packages
The cost of a hot air balloon ride depends on the travellers' chosen packages. Here are the various hot air balloon packages available in Nepal.
Based on Duration:
Nationality | 30 minutes | 60 minutes |
Nepali | NPR 9,500 | NPR 11,000 |
Chinese/ SAARC | 100 USD | 120 USD |
Foreigner | 100 USD | 150 USD |
*Note: The current exchange rate for 1 USD is 135 NPR.
Based on Occasions:
Nationality | Celebrations/Events |
Nepali | NPR 85000 |
Chinese/SAARC | 800 USD |
Foreigner | 800 USD |
The celebration on the hot air balloon includes a hot air balloon birthday celebration, an engagement celebration, an anniversary celebration, and photoshoot sessions.
Best Time for Hot Air Balloons in Nepal
Travelers can ride hot-air balloons in Nepal almost any day of the year. Operators generally postpone hot-air balloon services for most of the monsoon seasons from June to August. The rest of the months, from September to May, have favourable weather conditions for balloon rides. So, visitors can book the flights without delay.
Safety Tips for Riding Hot Air Balloon in Nepal
Hot air balloon rides in Nepal are safe and operated under international safety guidance. Operators use the latest equipment, and pilots are well-trained professionals with years of experience.
However, to ensure no mishap, here are some safety tips for riding a hot air balloon in Nepal:
- Listen to the pilot’s instructions at all times.
- During the lift and landing of the balloon, hold on to the ropes or handles on the basket
- Do not jump or move too rashly during the flight.
- Hold on to the camera and other personal items to prevent accidentally dropping them.
- Do not try to feed the birds if any come near the balloon.
- Do not divert the pilots’ attention during operations or communication with the ground.
- Do not try to pilot the balloon yourself.
Preparation for Hot Air Balloon Ride in Nepal
Visitors miss many things during their first time riding an air balloon. Here is a list of items you must know/have for a hot air balloon ride in Nepal.
- Temperatures can change rapidly as a hot air balloon rises to a higher altitude. Travelers should wear multiple layers of clothing to adjust to the sudden shifts.
- Pack a pair of sunglasses, as a hot-air balloon ride can get extremely bright at the top.
- Drinks and snacks may or may not be included in the package. Confirm the inclusion of drinks; if not, bring them yourself to stay hydrated.
- Check if you have any medical conditions before joining the ride. Avoid wearing long, loose dresses and high-heeled shoes that can cause you to trip and fall.
Conclusion
A hot air balloon ride in Nepal is an exciting sport that gives you both thrilling and soothing sensations at the same time. Going high above the clouds makes you feel free and closer to nature, a feeling we have forgotten with the ongoing urbanisation around us. Travelers can see the beautiful scenery of Pokhara and admire the spectacle in person. No other place has better views than from a hot-air balloon ride for your celebrations and to make your special events even more special.
So, pack your luggage and book the flights. Feel the adventure in you with a hot air balloon ride in Nepal.