A new Balloon tour operator in Myanmar is helping temple-viewers and travelers get a fresh glimpse of the country. Originally operating out of Bagan, Oriental Ballooning is expanding into other parts of the country this fall. As everyone knows, sometimes all you need is a little perspective…
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Since last November, Oriental Ballooning has been in operation in Bagan and have now expanded their operation to Mandalay and soon to Inle Lake as well. The season for soaring is generally from October to March, when the rains can be avoided. The balloons take flight in the morning when the weather and air pressure is most stable.
Bagan : 5 balloons with 8 passenger capacity
Mandalay : 2 balloons with 4 passenger capacity
Inle Lake : 1 balloons with 4 passenger capacity
Hot air balloons fly with the wind so the distance traveled depends on the wind speed but a typical trip will travel between 5 and 10km. Your pilot will alter the height that the balloon travels at throughout the flight to give you the best views. At times you will glide along at tree-top height and at others you will be given a panoramic views from 600 meters up.
Balloon rides are well known popular in Bagan but some people say ballooning in Mandalay may offer an equally gratifying experience. The balloon lands in small villages where it is warmly welcomed by locals — something very exciting for all! The view over Irrawaddy River and changing scenes, from villages to daily life on the water, are new to most people.
Click on the photo gallery above to get a better glimpse of the kind of views that can turn a good trip into a trip of a lifetime!