Hot air balloon rides soar into Delhi skies this weekend | check rates and locations
These tethered flights, 7-12 minutes long, aim to significantly boost Delhi's tourism and entertainment offerings with unique aerial city views.
New Delhi: Get ready for a breathtaking new perspective of the capital! The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has officially launched trial runs for hot air balloon rides at Baansera, with public access set to begin this Saturday. Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena announced the exciting development, revealing that tickets will be priced at Rs 3,000 per person, exclusive of taxes.
"Earlier, I had promised people of Delhi that we would keep on introducing new things for entertainment. Many parks and recreational spaces have been developed recently, adding to that is the hot-air balloon facility for which a trial run was launched today," he said.
This new offering follows a DDA decision in July to partner with a private agency for hot air balloon rides at four strategic locations across the city. Besides Baansera near Sarai Kale Khan, these sites include the Yamuna Sports Complex, the Commonwealth Games sports complexes, and another location along the Yamuna Bank at Asita.
The DDA has outlined plans for tethered flights to operate for four hours daily, with the possibility of extending operational hours based on demand. The period between November and February is considered the peak season for ballooning in North India, offering ideal weather conditions for these aerial adventures. "Tethered flights will be permitted for four hours daily. However, DDA may extend it as per requirements. The peak season for ballooning in North India, spanning November to February, offers ideal weather conditions, and public rides are set to open soon," DDA said in a statement.
Each ride, lasting between 7 to 12 minutes, will accommodate up to four passengers. Lieutenant Governor Saxena, who personally experienced the trial flight, expressed his satisfaction with the safety measures in place. "I tested the ride, and I am happy and satisfied. From a safety point of view, four ropes are tied to the balloon, with each rope having a capacity of seven tonnes. Today we went to a height of 120 feet from the ground," he shared.
Once fully operational at all four locations, these hot air balloon rides are expected to significantly boost Delhi's tourism potential, offering residents and visitors alike a unique aerial panorama of the city's natural landscapes, riverfront, and iconic cityscape.