Soar Over Palaces and Heritage During the Mysore Dasara Festival
Every year during the Mysore Dasara Festival, the skies above this royal city come alive with vibrant hot air balloons. The Mysuru Hot Air Balloon Festival is a unique way to witness the grandeur of Karnataka’s cultural capital from above. This offers an unforgettable blend of sky adventure and heritage views.
What to Expect in the Sky
These are tethered hot air balloon rides, where the balloon lifts you 100–300 feet above ground and offers panoramic views of:
- Mysore Palace
- Chamundi Hills
- Kukkarahalli Lake
- And the city’s vast tree canopy
Each ride lasts around 5 to 10 minutes, making it ideal for families, children, and those new to air travel. Some events may also include night-time balloon glow shows, where illuminated balloons light up the skyline.
Safety is fully managed by certified pilots under the guidance of DGCA-approved operators, and all rides are weather-dependent, operating mostly in the early morning or evening.
Where the Festival Takes Place
The balloon rides are part of the Mysore Dasara celebrations, typically held at open grounds like the Lalitha Mahal Helipad, Chamundi Vihar Stadium, or Varuna Grasslands. Entry is through advance booking, and on-site tickets may be available during festival days (October season).
What Else to Explore in Mysuru
After your balloon ride, explore the grandeur of Mysore Palace, enjoy shopping at Devaraja Market, visit St. Philomena’s Church, or stroll around the beautiful Karanji Lake. During Dasara, the entire city comes alive with parades, performances, and illumination, making it a perfect time to pair aerial adventure with cultural immersion.