Three top world heritage sites for hot air balloon ride

Survey the world from a bird’s eye view perspective to gain a unique and magical experience second to none. Many travelers are known to have earmarked a bird’s eye view city tour in their travel plans – so let’s join in this unique scenic view of three world heritage destinations via a hot air balloon ride that will lift you to an altitude high enough to take in a panoramic view that covers the entire landscape – up close for the most unique and unforgettable experience.

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Floating over the ancient Khmer empire of Cambodia

Though not the official capital, the province of Siem Reap, Cambodia, is by far considered a must-see destination. It happens to be the location of the famous Angkor Wat world heritage site dating back almost 1,000 years; a testament to the unrivaled magnificence of the great Khom civilization which flourished in an era long gone. The slogan “See Angkor Wat and Die” is a play on words that highlights its visual significance and architectural signature from a high altitude.

The balloons of Siem Reap are divided into two types: the yellow Angkor Balloon is a large helium balloon which provides a stationary 360-degree bird’s eye view of Angkor Wat and charges occupants 20-25 USD per person; the other type is the Angkor Hot Air Balloon which will take you on a scenic journey above Siem Reap including Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple and other places including Tonle Sap. If the weather is favorable, you will be surrounded by golden rays of the sun setting on the horizon. This type of balloon costs approximately 125-150 USD per person

Service Time: Angkor Balloon is available all year round / Angkor Hot Air Balloon is available from December to March

Nearby attractions: In addition to the city of Angkor, the collective group of ancient sites and communities floating on water is called Kampong Phluk; offering tourists an eco-tourism route featuring daily lifestyles and local traditions of Cambodian people.

Plan to visit Siem Reap for Hot Air Balloon ride? Fly there with Thai Airways! 

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Explore the sea of pagodas from the skies of Bagan, Myanmar

Bagan is known as the “City of the Sea of Stupas” where in the past there used to be as many as 10,000 pagodas as a testament to this land’s heritage. Bagan is also the birthplace of Theravada Buddhism. Buddhism’s golden era flourished and prospered through the construction of pagodas and sculptures representing Lord Buddha. However, several earthquakes damaged the pagoda population which is why there are only 2,000 remaining.

Travelers visiting Bagan are usually fixated on exploring pagodas via electric bicycle rentals or horse drawn carriages. There is another mode of transport used to explore Bagan and that is the hot air balloon ride costing about 350-400 USD per person – guaranteed that this will leave a lasting impression.

Service Time: October-April

Nearby attractions: Another fun activity to do while visiting Bagan is taking a cruise on the Irrawaddy River. There are short-distance boat trips for sightseeing and long-distance double decker cruises that sail to Mandalay city with top-notch accommodations and meals available.

Ready to explore Bagan, the City of the Sea of Stupas? Fly to Myanmar with Thai Airways!

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Experience another planet in Cappadocia, Türkiye

An image of hundreds of hot air balloons floating over Türkiye airspace is now a dream destination for travelers. Cappadocia, located in the central part of Türkiye, fits the bill for such a visit. Landscapes are formed naturally by the deposition of sedimentary rocks and volcanic ashes over millions of years, eroded later by nature until it became a pointed shape. In the past, locals carved out actual homes into these rocks – some areas go so deep to the point that they became underground cities – a key attraction for tourists from around the world. The hot air balloon program enables visitors to see the complex Rocky Mountains from a bird’s eye view, on par to looking down from Mars.

The balloon flights are available all year long, pending weather conditions. The ideal time to launch balloons is from April to November, with a service fee of 100-185 USD per person.

Inspired to plan a trip to Cappadocia? Fly to Istanbul, Türkiye with Thai Airways!