Hyderabad Launches Spectacular Hot Air Balloon Festival to Boost Tourism
Inauguration of the Hot Air Balloon Festival
Hyderabad, January 16: The skies over Hyderabad were filled with vibrant hot-air balloons as the three-day festival commenced on Friday, heralding a new era for tourism in Telangana.
The festival was inaugurated by Jupally Krishna Rao, the State Minister for Tourism and Culture, near the iconic Golconda Fort at the Golf Club.
As part of the opening festivities, the Minister enjoyed a hot air balloon ride, soaring for approximately one and a half hours and covering around 13 kilometers.
The journey began at the Golconda Golf Club and concluded at the outskirts of Appajiguda, providing breathtaking aerial views of Hyderabad and its picturesque surroundings.
On the first day, about 40 passengers were transported in 18 hot air balloons that launched in the morning.
Describing the experience as "truly unforgettable," Jupally Krishna Rao emphasized that this initiative signifies a new chapter in the tourism narrative of the State.
A Blend of Heritage and Modernity
Rao highlighted Telangana's commitment to merging heritage with innovation, stating that while the International Kite and Sweet Festival showcases the State's rich culture and hospitality, events like the Hot Air Balloon and Drone Festivals represent a forward-thinking approach.
He pointed out that this blend of culture and technology is essential for establishing Telangana as a modern tourism hub.
Reaffirming the government's dedication to enhancing the 'Destination Telangana' brand, Rao mentioned the goal of showcasing the State's natural beauty and historical significance to a global audience.
He added that adventure tourism initiatives would be crucial in attracting both domestic and international visitors by providing immersive travel experiences.
The Minister also discussed the new tourism policy aimed at accelerating sector growth through private investment and public-private partnerships to create world-class infrastructure and services.
These initiatives are expected to generate employment and sustainable livelihoods for local youth. "The balloons ascending into the sky today symbolize Telangana tourism reaching new global heights," Rao expressed, confident that such efforts would position the State among India's top tourism destinations.
Details of the Hot Air Balloon Rides
According to officials from the Tourism Department, the hot air balloon rides, priced at Rs 2,000, will last between 45 minutes to one hour, covering a distance of 8 to 10 kilometers, depending on wind conditions. The maximum altitude for these flights is set at 4,500 feet above sea level.
The locations for the morning flights on January 17 and 18 will be determined based on weather conditions and wind direction.
Evening sessions are scheduled to take place at the Parade Ground in Secunderabad, featuring tethered hot air balloons in night-glow displays. These rides will allow vertical movement only and will commence at 5 p.m., with tickets priced at Rs 15.