For as long as I can remember, riding in a hot air balloon had been on my bucket list. It’s one of those magical experiences that seem to blend adventure, serenity, and wonder all at once. Finally, on the first day of 2020, I had the chance to tick it off my list on the beautiful island of Sri Lanka.
The Early Morning Excitement
Our journey began in the early hours of the morning. We arrived at the balloon launch site at around 5:30 AM. Despite the early hour, there was a sense of excitement in the air. Imran, the friendly manager, greeted us warmly and handed out breakfast packs. Meanwhile, the crew was hard at work inflating the massive balloon.
Watching the balloon come to life was an experience in itself. The sheer size of it was astonishing—far larger than I had ever imagined. The process of inflating it was fascinating to watch, and before we knew it, it was ready for our adventure.
Up, Up, and Away
At precisely 6:00 AM, we stepped into the sturdy basket and prepared for takeoff. Any nervousness I had quickly melted away as the skilled pilot guided us upward with ease. He was not only a master at his craft but also incredibly personable, answering all our questions and making sure we felt comfortable throughout the journey.
As we ascended, the first rays of sunlight painted the sky in hues of gold and pink. The view was breathtaking—an endless expanse of natural beauty that I couldn’t capture entirely, even with countless photos.
A Bird’s-Eye View of Sri Lanka
From the basket, we had a panoramic view of Sri Lanka’s stunning landscapes. Rolling mountains, quaint villages, lush green rice fields, and shimmering lakes stretched out below us. It felt like floating above a paradise, each moment more surreal than the last.
After about an hour of gliding through the sky, we gently descended, landing in a serene open area. Since hot air balloons rely on wind currents, there isn’t a fixed landing spot. The ground crew followed us throughout the flight and were ready to assist upon landing. To commemorate the experience, we were given customized flight certificates during a small post-flight celebration—a thoughtful and personal touch.
FAQs About Hot Air Balloon Rides in Sri Lanka
Many of you reached out with questions about my experience, so here are some helpful answers for anyone planning their own adventure:
1. Is it cold up there?
No, the temperature in the balloon is similar to the temperature on the ground, so you don’t need to bundle up.
2. Is it safe?
Yes, hot air balloon rides are incredibly safe. The basket is spacious enough to accommodate 10-16 passengers comfortably, and the pilot takes every precaution to ensure safety throughout the ride.
3. Is the ride suitable for kids?
The ride is generally recommended for children aged six and above, but there are no strict restrictions. It’s always best to check directly with Sri Lanka Balloon for specific guidelines.
4. Does it go fast?
Not at all. The balloon glides slowly and steadily, with the speed varying based on wind conditions.
5. How long is the ride?
The flight lasts approximately one hour, giving you plenty of time to soak in the views and take photos.
6. Where does it land?
Since the balloon’s path is determined by wind direction, there isn’t a designated landing spot. The pilot selects a safe area, and the ground crew ensures smooth assistance upon landing.
7. Did you enjoy the ride?
Absolutely! It was one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life.
A hot air balloon ride offers a unique perspective of the island’s beauty that’s truly unmatched. For more information or to book your own ride, reach out to Srilanka Balloon —they’ll be happy to assist with any queries.
If you visit Srilanka, Never miss this amazing hot air balloon ride.
