Sigiriya: Hot Air Balloon Ride

Thinking about soaring above Sri Lanka’s iconic landscapes? The Sigiriya Hot Air Balloon Ride promises a unique perspective on this UNESCO World Heritage site and its surroundings. While it’s not a typical sightseeing tour, the experience of floating high above the lush countryside offers a visual feast that’s hard to match.

What we love about this tour is the chance to witness Sigiriya and its environs from a bird’s-eye perspective, the luxury transport and seamless organization, and the professional, licensed pilots ensuring safety and a smooth flight. That said, it’s worth noting that weather conditions can cause cancellations — so flexibility is key. Overall, it’s best suited for travelers looking for an extraordinary, picture-worthy experience with a touch of adventure.

Key Points

• Unparalleled aerial views of Sigiriya, Kandalama, and Habarana
• Luxury transfer from your hotel for a stress-free start
• Experienced licensed pilots ensure safety and professionalism
• Includes a celebratory toast with champagne, juice, and cake
• Weather-dependent, with full refunds if canceled
• Ideal for travelers seeking a memorable, scenic adventure

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Seamless Hotel Pickup and Arrival at Kandalama Lake

Your adventure begins with a luxury transfer from your hotel, whether in Dambulla, Kandalama, Sigiriya, or Habarana. The pickup is arranged based on your hotel location, and Sri Lanka Balloon’s team is communicative — you’ll receive your exact pickup time after confirming your hotel. Expect to be in the lobby about 10 minutes before your scheduled pickup.

Once aboard the vehicle, the journey itself sets a relaxed tone. The roads around Kandalama are often scenic, and the drive to the launch site near Kandalama Lake is brief, yet comfortable. The scene is set for an early morning adventure, with pickups typically scheduled around 6:00 a.m., depending on weather conditions.

Pre-Flight Briefing and Preparations

Upon arrival at the launch site, you’ll enjoy a light breakfast, coffee, or tea while the crew conducts a safety briefing. This is a crucial element, especially for first-timers, as your licensed pilots will explain the basics of balloon flight and safety protocols. Interestingly, the pilots are fully licensed and undergo annual testing, adding a reassuring layer of professionalism and safety.

The Hot Air Balloon Flight: A One-Hour Flight of Wonder

Climbing into a colorful hot air balloon decorated with Sri Lankan designs, you’ll feel the anticipation build. The balloon’s basket is relatively small and can feel a bit cramped — a common comment from reviews — but it allows for a more intimate experience. During the flight, you’ll drift over the landscape, with views stretching across Sigiriya, Kandalama, and Habarana.

While some reviewers mention that the flight doesn’t always offer a direct view of Sigiriya Rock itself, the overall aerial vista of the region is impressive. “The add infers this flight includes views of Sigiriya Rock. It doesn’t. Just a lot of trees,” one reviewer notes, highlighting that the flight provides more of the surrounding landscape rather than a direct flyover of Sigiriya itself. The landscape—comprising rice paddies, forests, and scattered villages—is stunning from above.

More Great Tours Nearby

Scenic Stop at a Traditional Village

After about an hour in the sky, the balloon gently descends, landing in a traditional village area — often a rice field or open space. Here, you’ll be invited to enjoy a celebratory toast with champagne, juice, and cake, making it feel like a genuine celebration of your flight.

The landing site can sometimes be in an unexpected location—some reviews mention landing in muddy fields or amidst local village crowds, which adds an authentic touch, but may feel a bit awkward for some.

Scenic Drive and Return

Following the flight, the experience continues with a short scenic drive back through Sri Lanka’s countryside. You’ll pass by local villages and scenic views, adding context to the landscape you just observed from the air. The group then gets transported back to your hotel, completing the four-hour experience.

What Makes This Tour Special

Stunning Views from Up High

Despite some reviews questioning whether Sigiriya Rock itself is visible, most travelers agree that the landscape’s vastness and lush greenery make for a breathtaking sight. The aerial perspective reveals verdant forests, patchwork farmland, and traditional villages, providing a fresh appreciation of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.

Professional Pilots and Safety Measures

With pilots holding full Commercial Balloon Pilot’s Licenses issued by CAASL, safety is a priority. The pilots are experienced and undergo annual testing, offering peace of mind for those wary of aerial adventures.

Luxury Transport and Convenience

Transfers are included, making the experience hassle-free — especially as early mornings can be tricky in Sri Lanka’s traffic. The pickup and drop-off service ensure a smooth start and end to your day, and the option to book in advance means you can secure your spot even during busy seasons.

Celebratory Toast and Personal Certificates

A charming touch is the personalized flight certificate you receive afterward, along with the champagne toast (or juice for non-drinkers). These add a memorable, personal element to the experience, perfect for celebrating a special occasion or just making the day extra memorable.

Considerations and Drawbacks

Weather Dependency

This tour hinges on good weather. If conditions aren’t suitable, the flight is canceled, and you’ll receive a full refund. It’s wise to keep flexible travel plans around the early morning slot, especially during the rainy season (November to May).

Cramped Basket and Flight Comfort

Some reviewers mention the small size of the basket and the feeling of heat from the burners. This is common in hot air balloon rides, but it’s worth being prepared for a somewhat confined space and some warmth from the gas burners.

Landing Location

Landing in a village or muddy field can feel a bit surreal or awkward, especially for those unfamiliar with rural Sri Lanka. It adds authenticity but might not suit everyone’s comfort level.

Not Suitable for Everyone

Pregnant women, individuals with heart problems, and wheelchair users are advised against participating, due to safety and comfort reasons.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This hot air balloon ride is ideal for travelers seeking a memorable, scenic adventure that offers a different perspective of Sri Lanka’s landscape. It’s perfect for romantic getaways, special celebrations, or photography enthusiasts eager to capture aerial shots.

If you’re comfortable with early mornings and a bit of unpredictability due to weather, this experience provides a luxurious, well-organized way to elevate your Sri Lanka trip.

Final Thoughts

The Sigiriya hot air balloon ride offers an extraordinary way to see Sri Lanka’s lush scenery from the sky. While some reviews point out limitations such as the flight not always providing a direct view of Sigiriya Rock or landing in rural fields, the overall experience remains memorable for the stunning vistas and professional organization.

The inclusion of luxury transport, safety accreditation, and a celebratory toast makes it a well-rounded, premium experience worth considering if you’re after a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. It’s especially suited for those who value authentic, scenic moments and are open to a bit of rural charm — all wrapped into a smooth, professionally-run package.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the hot air balloon ride weather-dependent?
Yes, the flight depends on suitable weather conditions. If the weather isn’t right, the tour will be canceled, and you’ll receive a full refund.

What should I bring for the ride?
Comfortable shoes and clothes, a camera, a hair tie, and binoculars are recommended. High heels are not allowed due to safety concerns.

How long is the entire experience?
The total duration is about 4 hours, including hotel pickup, safety briefing, the flight itself (~1 hour), and return transport.

Can I book the tour in advance?
Absolutely. You can reserve your spot and pay later, which is helpful during busy seasons. Just note that early booking is recommended due to high demand.

Will I see Sigiriya Rock from the balloon?
Not necessarily. Some reviews mention that Sigiriya itself may not be visible during the flight, but the surrounding landscape offers beautiful views.

Is the experience suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s best suited for able-bodied adults due to the size of the basket and safety considerations. Pregnant women, those with heart problems, or wheelchair users should avoid it.

By choosing this hot air balloon experience, you’re opening a window to Sri Lanka’s stunning scenery from a perspective few get to see. Its combination of luxury, professionalism, and breathtaking views makes it a worthwhile addition to any itinerary in the Central Province.

You can check availability for your dates here: