Hot air balloon rides set to elevate Delhi’s eco-tourism: Check launch sites and timings

Source: Pexel

Delhi’s residents and visitors can soon look forward to a new aerial adventure, as hot air balloon rides are set to take off from four locations across the city. The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has finalised an agency to introduce the activity, with operations expected to commence within two months, according to officials cited by HT.

The balloon rides, which will initially be tethered, are slated for launch at the Yamuna Sports Complex, Commonwealth Games Sports Complex and two riverside locations, Asita and Baansera. The Yamuna Sports Complex at Surajmal Vihar, noted as the largest facility developed by the DDA and the Commonwealth Games Village near Akshardham temple, originally built for athletes in 2010, have both been selected for this initiative.

In its official statement, the DDA noted: “This project will promote eco-tourism and recreational activities and provide a unique aerial perspective of the national capital and its landscape. The entire concept has been visualised under the guidance and supervision of Lt Governor VK Saxena.” HT confirmed this as part of the agency’s ongoing efforts to rejuvenate the River Yamuna and transform its banks with new attractions.

Rides will be conducted using tethered balloons, secured to the ground with thick ropes for safety, rather than floating freely. Initially, each site will operate for four hours daily, with the potential for longer hours as demand grows. The agency handling operations will be allotted a 3,600 square metre space at each site and will conduct rides under a three-year agreement, which can be extended for up to nine years under the directives of the Lieutenant Governor.

Ticket prices are yet to be finalised, but DDA has instructed the agency to ensure affordability. According to DDA statement, “DDA may extend [flying time] as per requirements. To ensure transparency and proper record keeping, all proceeds from ticketing will be credited to DDA's account,” adding that the agency will be allowed advertising space on the balloons.

The DDA highlighted the rejuvenation of the project sites, including the transformation of Asita from encroached land into green space and the conversion of a construction waste dump at Sarai Kale Khan into a bamboo park consisting of 30,000 bamboos, three water bodies and a fountain. These efforts underpin the authority’s broader commitment to improving recreational and ecological facilities in the capital, HT reported.

The operator selected by DDA will adhere to stringent safety protocols, employing certified pilots, professional staff and maintaining compliance with all aviation regulations, as mandated by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). Environmental standards will be a priority and the agency will handle ticketing, marketing and overall customer service.

Hot air ballooning is already a popular draw in other parts of India, such as Hampi, Lonavala, Pushkar, Jaipur, Goa and regions around the Taj Mahal during annual events. The initiative in Delhi seeks to join this list, giving residents and tourists alike the chance to experience the capital in a unique way. HT reported that this is the first time such an initiative is being offered in Delhi, signalling a fresh chapter in the city’s recreational and tourism landscape.