A Dreamlike Hot Air Balloon Ride in Manali

If you think you’ve seen all of Manali from the ground—wait until you float above it. During my recent trip to Himachal, I decided to tick something off my bucket list: a hot air balloon ride in Manali. I’d done the usual treks and scenic drives before, but soaring silently over the valleys and peaks was a completely different experience—one that blended thrill, tranquillity, and sheer wonder.

In this blog, I’ll take you along on my journey above the Himalayas, while sharing everything you need to know—from best seasons to safety tips, and from nearby attractions to budget advice—to help you plan this unforgettable adventure.

Rising with the Sun: My Morning in the Skies of Manali

It was still dark when I set off from my homestay near Naggar. A short drive brought me to Dobhi, the launch site for hot air ballooning near Manali. As the balloon began to inflate, glowing in the soft pre-dawn light, excitement bubbled inside me.

Soon, I found myself rising gently into the sky. The feeling was surreal. The Beas River snaked its way through the valley below, apple orchards stretched like a green quilt, and the mighty Dhauladhar peaks stood in silent grandeur all around.

What struck me most was the silence. No hum of engines, no distractions—just the gentle hiss of the burner and the soft whisper of the breeze. Time slowed. I wasn’t just seeing the Himalayas; I was a part of them.

Best Time to Visit Manali for a Balloon Ride

Timing can make or break your ballooning experience. The ideal time to go hot air ballooning in Manali is from March to June and September to early November. These months bring clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and stable wind conditions—perfect for a smooth ride.

I visited in early April, and it was just right. The mornings were cool, visibility was amazing, and the valleys below were bursting with spring life.

Avoid monsoon months like July and August, when heavy rains and cloudy skies often lead to cancellations. Winter is beautiful, but snow and low temperatures make it less practical for ballooning.

Getting There: How to Reach the Launch Site

Most balloon rides take off from Dobhi village, which lies between Kullu and Manali, around 20–25 km from Manali town. Getting there is easy if you’re already in the area:

From Manali town, it's about a 45-minute drive.

From Bhuntar Airport, you can reach Dobhi in around 30 minutes.

If you're based in Naggar, you're even closer—just a 20-minute drive.

I booked my balloon ride through a local operator who also arranged pick-up and drop-off. It made the entire experience hassle-free, especially with the early morning start.

Travel tip: Consider staying closer to Dobhi or Naggar if your balloon ride is your main activity. It saves time and lets you enjoy quieter surroundings.

What It Costs and What You Need to Know

There are two main types of balloon experiences in Manali—tethered rides (where the balloon is anchored and rises vertically up and down) and free-flight rides (where the balloon drifts with the wind across the valley).

Tethered rides are usually around ₹2,500 to ₹3,000 per person.

Free-flight rides can cost ₹10,000 to ₹15,000, depending on the operator, ride duration, and season.

I went for the free-flight ride—it lasted around 30 minutes and covered a stunning stretch of the Kullu Valley.

As for safety, I was relieved to find that operators are generally professional, with licensed pilots, weather checks, and clear safety briefings. Still, it’s important to choose a certified provider and read recent reviews before booking.

Quick tips:

Wear comfortable clothes and closed shoes.

Carry a light jacket—it’s chilly early in the morning.

Avoid carrying heavy bags or loose items during the flight.

Explore More: What to Do Around the Ballooning Site

Once your ride ends, there’s still a full day ahead to explore the beautiful surroundings. I decided to slow things down and soak in the charm of the valley.

Naggar Castle was my first stop—a 15th-century wooden marvel with postcard views.

I followed it up with a visit to Roerich Art Gallery, tucked away in the woods nearby.

By afternoon, I was sipping hot Siddu (a local Himachali delicacy) at a village café near Jana Falls, only a short drive away.

If you’re more adventurous, Solang Valley or Hampta Pass base can be added to your plan.

You can also return to Old Manali to unwind by the riverside, grab a coffee, or shop for souvenirs.

2-day itinerary:

Day 1 – Hot air balloon ride + Naggar Castle + Roerich Gallery

Day 2 – Solang Valley or Jana Falls + explore Old Manali

Final Thoughts: Why You Shouldn’t Miss This

I’ve done many thrilling things while travelling—treks, river rafting, biking through the mountains—but nothing felt as ethereal as that morning above Manali. The hot air balloon ride gave me a rare view of the mountains and a deeper appreciation for their quiet strength and beauty.

It’s not just for thrill-seekers. It’s for anyone who wants to experience the Himalayas from a new perspective, one that feels both humbling and empowering. If you’re visiting Manali and want a once-in-a-lifetime memory, this is it.

Trust me—when you’re up there, watching the world wake up beneath you, you’ll know it was worth every second, every rupee, and every step it took to get there.