As of the first week of October, three hot-air balloon companies have been providing balloon flight services for both local and foreign tourists in Bagan.
Many foreign visitors have been enjoying the beauty of Bagan’s ancient city, often referred to as the heart of Myanmar, and rich in ancient heritage, by riding hot-air balloons. This experience is particularly enchanting during the cold season. As of the first week of October, three hot-air balloon companies have been providing balloon flight services for both local and foreign tourists in Bagan, offering breathtaking views of the city’s famous pagodas and temples from the sky.
During the Thadingyut Festival, Bagan experienced a surge in visitors, and hotels, transport services, and travel companies are anticipating a similar influx during the Tazaungdine Festival in November. One Indian visitor, on his first visit to Bagan and experiencing a hot-air balloon ride for the first time, expressed delight, stating that the experience was not scary but easy and wonderful. He praised the beauty of Bagan’s pagodas and temples and expressed love for the people of Myanmar. The cold season in Bagan, cooler than Poppa in the early morning and evening, is appreciated by international travellers.
Visitors explore pagodas and temples in the ancient cultural zone using various means such as carts, electric bikes, Tok Tok (three-wheel) cars, bicycles, and hot air balloons.
Currently, three companies offer hot-air balloon flight services in Bagan in collaboration with travel companies and hotels. Balloon flights typically take place at sunrise, with breakfast provided before liftoff and champagne service offered after landing as a mark of honour to the inventors of the balloon.
An official from Balloon Over Bagan expressed expectations for a higher number of visitors in this year’s tourist season compared to the previous year, with promotions being offered. The price of a hot-air balloon ride varies by month but is fixed at US$170 in November. The Bagan Cultural Heritage Zone is ready to warmly welcome customers and create lasting memories for them.
Travel services, which were halted during the COVID-19 pandemic, have now resumed, and Bagan, along with Ngapali Beach, has become one of the busiest destinations. The majority of visitors entered Bagan’s Ancient Cultural Zone, rich in the country’s cultural heritage, during this year’s Thadingyut Festival, indicating a likelihood of increased visitors during the Tazaungdine Festival. Notably, tourists have been enjoying balloon rides, which provide astonishing views of Bagan and the Ayeyawady River. — Nyein Thu (MNA)/ZS
