The Ballooning Club of Indian organizes an International Hot Air Balloon Mela in November every year which is an eagerly awaited event for balloonists the world over.

Visitors can travel short distances between towns or historic resorts in these hot air balloons. The best, of course, is to coast over fairs such as Pushkar or Baneshwar or Nagaur in a hot-air-balloon. Jaipur is now a popular centre for ballooning.

The first ever hot-air balloon 1783. However, with the advent of air planes, flights 'by lighter-tan-air' machines went out of fashion until it was revived in the last century as an adventure sport. Joy rides on the balloons can be had for a fee by the enthusiasts. The view from the top, according to the experience of some who have travelled up and down, is nothing but exhilarating.

There's no age barrier to enjoy hot-air ballooning, but a you have to be fit, as you may have to walk through paddocks after landing. There are no seats in the basket - therefore, standing for the duration of the flight, about an hour is unavoidable. It’s best not to take children along with you, reason being the comfort and enjoyment of other passengers. The size of the basket is quiet small and young children often get restless when in confined areas. The walls of the baskets are usually four feet high, and small children would have difficulty in seeing over, unless carried by an adult. Adults should accompany children under 12 years.

The best time to indulge in ballooning is after sunrise when the winds are their calmest. Winter months provide the most reliable conditions, but during summer months its better take off early in the morning. The duration of ballooning flight can change at the pilot's discretion, taking into account the winds, temperature and weight carried on the day.

Clothing should be exactly the way you wear during a hiking trip that includes sturdy shoes or boots plus sunglasses, gloves and a cap. Remember, it does not get any colder in the balloon than on the ground. Always bring an extra film for photography. When alone a balloon can rise upto 800 feet and above, while those in groups may be restricted to heights between 200 and 500 feet.

A balloon can move as fast as the wind blows, but high wind landings always require skill and experience. The passenger capacity depends on the size of the balloon, but usually it varies from 2 in sport balloons and up to 12 people in passenger balloons. The balloon crew tracks the flight and are usually there when the balloon lands.