Touched the Sky in Manali: My Hot Air Balloon Adventure You Need to Try

When I first planned my trip to Manali, my mind was full of the usual images—misty pine forests, mountain hikes, snow-dusted roofs, and cozy cafes. What I didn’t expect was to find myself gently floating hundreds of feet in the air, watching the sunrise cast golden light over the Himalayas from a hot air balloon.

Yes, you read that right—hot air ballooning in Manali is real, and it’s one of the most serene, surprising, and unforgettable things you can do in this popular hill station. If you’re planning a trip and looking for something beyond the usual sightseeing, this might just be the experience that changes your entire view—literally.

How It All Started: A Chance Discovery in Old Manali

It was my second evening in Old Manali. I was enjoying a quiet dinner by the river when I overheard a couple at the next table talking about a hot air balloon ride they had done earlier that morning. My ears perked up—hot air ballooning in Manali? I had never heard of that before.

Curious, I asked them more, and they told me about a few operators running tethered balloon rides in Solang Valley and Dhobi, both within a short drive from Manali. Before dessert, I was already googling and booking my slot for the next morning.

The Big Morning: A Sunrise to Remember

I woke up before dawn and made my way to Solang Valley, about 30 minutes from where I was staying. The air was cold but fresh, and the first light of the day painted the mountains in soft pinks and oranges. It was silent, except for the whoosh of fire filling the balloon above us.

When we took off, the feeling was surreal. Unlike planes or helicopters, there was no engine sound—just a peaceful float into the sky. As we rose, I could see the entire valley open up below—rolling green slopes, wooden houses, and the sparkling Beas River winding through the terrain. Above, the snow-capped Dhauladhar range stood proudly, closer than ever.

Though the ride was only 8–10 minutes long, it was more than enough to make me feel weightless and free. The world below seemed to pause, and for a moment, all I could do was soak in the beauty and the silence.

When Should You Try It? Best Time for Hot Air Ballooning in Manali

Timing plays a big role in making the ride special. The ballooning season in Manali depends heavily on weather:

March to June: Ideal weather, clear skies, and lush green valleys—great for photos and calm flights.

September to November: Another excellent window, especially after the rains clear the air.

Avoid July and August: Monsoons bring heavy rain and unstable winds—not safe for ballooning.

Winter months (Dec–Feb): Rarely available, but if the weather is clear and calm, some operators do fly. It can be freezing though, so come prepared.

Most rides happen at sunrise—between 6:00 and 7:30 AM. Trust me, it’s worth waking up early for that golden Himalayan light.

Where It Happens & How to Get There

There are two main hot air ballooning spots near Manali:

Solang Valley: Just 13 km from Manali, this place is known for all sorts of adventure activities—paragliding, ziplining, and skiing (in winter). It's the most common site for balloon rides.

Dhobi Village: A quieter, lesser-known location around 12 km away, nestled amidst apple orchards and scenic farms. Great for those looking for peace and fewer crowds.

To reach these spots:

Hire a private taxi or self-drive scooter.

Some tour operators include pickup and drop in the package.

Roads are smooth and the ride is scenic—rolling hills, quaint villages, and snow peaks in the backdrop.

What It Costs & What to Expect

One of the best parts? The experience is surprisingly budget-friendly.

Tethered balloon rides cost anywhere between ₹800 to ₹1,500 per person.

The balloon is tied with strong ropes (hence “tethered”), which means it rises up to a certain height but doesn’t drift.

It’s very safe and beginner-friendly—even for those slightly nervous about heights.

Check for weather guarantees—if the ride is cancelled due to bad weather, you should be able to reschedule or get a refund.

Wear warm clothes and carry a camera. The view is priceless.

Other Things to Do Around Your Balloon Ride

The ride itself is short, so you’ll have plenty of time to explore more nearby:

Solang Valley is packed with adventure—try paragliding, ATV biking, or ropeway rides.

Visit the Anjani Mahadev waterfall, a short hike from Solang.

Head back to Manali town for lunch, and later explore Hidimba Temple, Vashisht hot springs, or just chill at a café in Old Manali.

If you’re creating a weekend plan, this is how it could look:

Day 1: Arrive and relax, explore the town.

Day 2: Hot air balloon ride + Solang Valley + return to Mall Road for shopping.

Day 3: Visit Naggar Castle or take a day trip to Rohtang Pass (if open).

Final Words: Add This to Your Manali Bucket List

Hot air ballooning in Manali might not be as famous as skiing or trekking—but it’s exactly that underrated charm that makes it special. It gives you a quiet, almost dreamlike experience above one of India’s most scenic mountain towns.

So, if you want to feel what it’s like to literally rise above it all, don’t miss this adventure. It’s peaceful, unique, and a beautiful reminder of how travel can surprise us when we least expect it.