Dambulla’s sunrise hot air balloon tour offers a truly breathtaking experience. Soaring high above the stunning landscapes at dawn, guests can witness iconic landmarks like the Golden Buddha and Sigiriya rock fortress from a unique aerial perspective. With an experienced pilot guiding the way, this one-hour adventure accommodates up to eight participants and even includes a celebratory champagne toast upon landing. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this exhilarating journey through the skies is not to be missed.
Key Points
- A 1-hour hot air balloon tour offering breathtaking views of Kandalama Tank, Golden Buddha, and Sigiriya at sunrise.
- Cost starts from $400 per person, including hotel pickup, entrance fees, and a champagne toast.
- Tour is conducted in English by an experienced pilot, ensuring a smooth and safe ride.
- Participants must follow all instructions from the pilot, and restrictions apply for certain conditions.
- Weather conditions are crucial, and the local supplier may cancel bookings due to unfavorable weather for safety reasons.
Tour Overview
The Dambulla Hot Air Balloon Tour offers an exhilarating experience as participants soar high above the stunning landscapes of Dambulla, Kandalama, and Habarana at sunrise.
Soar high above the stunning landscapes of Dambulla, Kandalama, and Habarana at sunrise on the exhilarating Dambulla Hot Air Balloon Tour.
This 1-hour tour is limited to 8 participants and is conducted in English. Travelers can enjoy breathtaking views of landmarks like Kandalama Tank, the Golden Buddha statue, and Sigiriya.
The smooth ride is facilitated by an experienced pilot. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for certain individuals, and personal expenses aren’t included.
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Pricing and Inclusions
The Dambulla Hot Air Balloon Tour costs from $400.00 per person.
The one-hour experience includes hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees, and the hot air balloon ride itself. Guests can enjoy a champagne toast and fruit juice during the smooth, exhilarating journey facilitated by an experienced pilot.
All taxes and service charges are covered, though personal expenses and optional gratuities are not.
There are some participant restrictions – the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with heart problems, or wheelchair users.
Guests should bring their passport/ID, comfortable shoes, and sun protection.
Experience Highlights
An exhilarating hot air balloon ride at sunrise awaits adventurers on the Dambulla Hot Air Balloon Tour.
Soaring high above the lush landscapes, you will be treated to stunning views of Kandalama, Habarana, and Dambulla.
Along the way, they’ll spot landmarks like the Kandalama Tank, the Golden Buddha statue, and the iconic Sigiriya rock fortress.
Soaring over landmarks like the Kandalama Tank, Golden Buddha, and iconic Sigiriya rock fortress.
The smooth, tranquil ride is facilitated by an experienced pilot, ensuring a safe and unforgettable experience.
After landing, guests can toast the occasion with champagne and fruit juice, capping off an unforgettable adventure in the skies over Sri Lanka.
Participant Restrictions
Not everyone can participate in the Dambulla Hot Air Balloon Tour.
For safety reasons, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with heart problems, or wheelchair users. Pets and oversize luggage are also not allowed. This is to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all participants.
The tour operator reserves the right to refuse entry to anyone they deem unfit for the activity. Participants should be prepared to follow all instructions provided by the experienced pilot.
More Great Tours NearbyPreparation and Important Information
To prepare for the Dambulla Hot Air Balloon Tour, participants should bring their passport or ID, wear comfortable shoes, and pack warm clothing, sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen. The local supplier reserves the right to cancel bookings due to bad weather. Important information to keep in mind:
| What to Bring | What to Avoid |
| — | — |
| Passport or ID | Pets |
| Comfortable shoes | Oversize luggage |
| Warm clothing | Large bags |
| Sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen | |
Participants should be aware of the restrictions and prepare accordingly for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Pickup and Drop-off
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle. This convenient service ensures a seamless start and end to your hot air balloon adventure.
The pickup and drop-off process follows these steps:
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Your pickup location will be confirmed prior to the tour date.
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The air-conditioned vehicle will transport you to the launch site.
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After your thrilling one-hour balloon ride, you’ll be dropped off back at your hotel, ready to continue your day’s activities.
This inclusive service allows you to focus on the unforgettable experience ahead.
Cancellation Policy
According to the policy, customers can cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexible cancellation option allows travelers to plan their trip with confidence, knowing they can get their money back if plans change.
The tour operator offers a "Reserve now & pay later" option, further enhancing the booking experience. Customers should review the policy carefully, as the local supplier reserves the right to cancel bookings due to bad weather.
Weather Considerations
While the Dambulla hot air balloon tour offers breathtaking views, weather conditions play a crucial role in the experience.
The local supplier reserves the right to cancel bookings due to bad weather. This ensures the safety and enjoyment of all participants.
Here are three key weather considerations:
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Wind speed: Ideal wind speeds are typically between 5-10 knots. Stronger winds can make the launch and landing more challenging.
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Cloud cover: Clear skies at sunrise provide the best lighting and visibility for aerial sightseeing.
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Precipitation: Any rain or thunderstorms would prevent the balloons from taking flight.
Common Questions
Can Children Under 12 Participate in the Tour?
The tour has participant restrictions that don’t mention any age limits. However, the tour may not be suitable for young children due to safety concerns. It’s best to check with the tour operator about their policies for children.
The tour information doesn’t mention any options for solo travelers to share rides. The group size is limited to 8 participants, so solo travelers would likely need to book the full price for a private ride.
What Is the Dress Code for the Hot Air Balloon Ride?
There’s no formal dress code, but the tour operator recommends comfortable, layered clothing and closed-toe shoes. Passengers should avoid loose, flowy items that could blow around in the balloon. Dressing for the weather and packing sun protection is also advised.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
No, participants cannot bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The inclusions cover a champagne toast and fruit juice during the hot air balloon ride. Personal expenses like extra food and drinks are not included.
Do I Need to Have Any Prior Hot Air Balloon Experience?
No prior hot air balloon experience is required. The tour is suitable for beginners, and you will receive a safety briefing and instructions from the experienced pilot before the ride.
The Sum Up
The Dambulla Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of Sri Lanka’s landscapes at dawn. Soaring high above iconic landmarks, guests can indulge in a champagne toast upon landing, making it a truly memorable experience. With an experienced pilot and up to eight participants, this one-hour adventure is a must-try for those seeking a unique and exhilarating way to explore the region.
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