If you’re dreaming of an unforgettable adventure, hot air ballooning in Sri Lanka is one of the most magical experiences you can have on the island. Floating silently above jungles, lakes, ancient temples, and roaming wildlife as the sun rises is not just a bucket list moment, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime memory.
After experiencing it myself, I can confidently say this is the best Sri Lanka hot air balloon ride and one of the most romantic, awe-inspiring things to do in the country. If you're planning a trip to Sri Lanka, your itinerary won't be complete until you book a hot air balloon ride over the misty mountains and grasslands of the Cultural Triangle to see ancient ruins and UNESCO sites appear on the horizon.
Central Sri Lanka is a spectacular sight from the ground, but an almost ethereal sight from the air and one that is sure to take your breath away. Hot air ballooning in Sri Lanka isn’t just an activity, it’s a moment that stays with you long after your trip ends. Floating above jungles at sunrise, sharing champagne on landing, and seeing the country from a completely new perspective is something I’ll never forget.
If you’re wondering whether a Sri Lanka hot air balloon ride is worth it, trust me, it’s the bucket list experience you’ll talk about for years.
>> Book Hot Air Ballooning from Dambulla
>> Book Hot Air Ballooning from Habarana
>> Book Hot Air Ballooning from Sigiriya
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Why hot air ballooning in Sri Lanka is so special
Since I was a little girl, I’d been captivated by the idea of floating high above the world in a hot air balloon, imagining the Serengeti below or the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia. I always thought it would be something I’d do “one day”. Never did I imagine I’d tick that dream off in Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka offers something incredibly unique, a blend of wild jungle, misty mountains, ancient ruins, huge reservoirs, and free-roaming wildlife – all visible from the air. The stillness of sunrise, the soft glow of first light, and the sheer scale of the landscape make this one of the most atmospheric ballooning destinations in the world.
Don't forget to read my guide to 26 incredible (+ FREE) things to do in Sri Lanka
The best Sri Lanka hot air balloon tour
If you’re researching Sri Lanka hot air balloon tours, one name stands out above the rest: Sri Lanka Ballooning. Based in Dambulla, right in the heart of the Cultural Triangle, they operate the only long-established commercial hot air balloon flights in Sri Lanka, with over a decade of experience. This is the tour I chose, and wholeheartedly recommend.
Why Sri Lanka Ballooning is the best:
- Operating for 10+ years
- Highly experienced international pilots
- Stunning sunrise routes over the Cultural Triangle
- Excellent safety record
- Seamless hotel pick-up & organisation
- Perfect for couples, birthdays, proposals & bucket list travellers
Operating for over a decade, Sri Lanka Ballooning is owned by chief pilot Justin Patrick Moore, an Englishman who has 30+ years experience of flying hot air balloons around the world, from the North Pole to Australia. He has led an amazing life and after falling in love with Sri Lanka, he made it his second home and set up the company which allows him to live his dream life and fly daily over the incredible landscape. Interestingly, the company has been a real trailblazer for Sri Lanka. Including being the first hot air balloon company to host a wedding and a skydive mid-flight!
Depending on where you are staying – you may wish to book one of these tours instead:
>> Book Hot Air Ballooning from Dambulla
>> Book Hot Air Ballooning from Habarana
>> Book Hot Air Ballooning from Sigiriya
What the Sri Lanka hot air balloon experience is like:
Experience the early morning magic. You’ll be picked up before sunrise, when the world is still quiet and cool. A short drive takes you to a launch field near Dambulla, where the balloon is slowly inflated as the sky begins to lighten. There’s a buzz of excitement among the small group (usually around 12–16 people), but it’s calm and beautifully organised.
As the burners fire and the balloon gently lifts from the ground, everything goes quiet. There's no engine noise or rush, in fact, until you look down and see the ground moving swiftly away, you might be forgiven for barely realising you'd left the ground. Just the soft whoosh of flame and the landscape unfolding below.
From the air, you'll see elephants roaming freely below, monkeys moving through treetops and birds soaring beside the balloon. Below, jungle stretches endlessly into the distance, lakes reflecting the pink and gold sunrise, while ancient villages wake up below. Locals often come out of their homes to wave and cheer as the balloon drifts overhead, a moment that feels incredibly special.
After around one hour in the air, you’ll land gently in a nearby field and celebrate with a champagne toast, a traditional ballooning ritual and the perfect end to an unforgettable morning.
Where does hot air ballooning in Sri Lanka take place?
All commercial Sri Lanka hot air balloon rides operate in Dambulla, within the Cultural Triangle. This means you’re flying over:
- Sigiriya & Pidurangala surroundings
- Dambulla Cave Temple region
- Forests, lakes & ancient irrigation systems
- Wildlife corridors connected to Minneriya & Kaudulla
It’s one of the most scenic and historically rich ballooning locations in Asia. Check out my Ultimate Sri Lanka 2 week itinerary from Colombo
Is hot air ballooning in Sri Lanka worth it?
Without question, yes. Of everything I did during a full month in Sri Lanka, this was the most memorable experience. More than beaches, safaris, or temples, this is the moment that made me truly fall in love with the country. There was something about seeing the island in the misty, morning light that made me truly realise I had arrived and made my dream of visiting a reality.
It’s the most peaceful, romantic, adventurous and visually breathtaking experience you can have while in Sri Lanka. It's so unique to the destination and genuinely worth every penny (trust me, I was a broke backpacker when I did this tour and it was worth it!) If you’re choosing one “wow” experience to splurge on, make it this.
>> Book Hot Air Ballooning from Dambulla
>> Book Hot Air Ballooning from Habarana
>> Book Hot Air Ballooning from Sigiriya
How much does hot air ballooning in Sri Lanka cost?
Prices typically range between USD $250–300 per person, depending on season and availability. This includes hotel transfers, the flight, and post-flight refreshments.
How long is the Sri Lanka hot air balloon ride?
Flight time: ~1 hour. Total experience: 3–4 hours including transfers
Is hot air ballooning in Sri Lanka safe?
Yes. Sri Lanka Ballooning is operated by internationally certified pilots with decades of experience and strict safety standards. Flights only operate in ideal weather conditions.
What is the best time of year for hot air ballooning in Sri Lanka?
The season usually runs from November to April, depending on weather. Flights take place at sunrise for the calmest conditions and best views.
>> Book Hot Air Ballooning from Dambulla
>> Book Hot Air Ballooning from Habarana
>> Book Hot Air Ballooning from Sigiriya
What should you wear?
- Comfortable clothes
- Trainers or closed shoes
- Light jacket for early morning
- Sunglasses & camera
Can children go on a Sri Lanka hot air balloon ride?
Generally yes, though minimum height/age requirements apply. It’s best to check directly when booking.
Is it suitable for couples or proposals?
Absolutely. Sri Lanka Ballooning is well known for romantic flights, engagements, birthdays, and special surprises.
Who should book this experience?
This experience is perfect for couples & honeymooners, solo travellers wanting a bucket list moment, birthday or anniversary celebrations. It's also perfect for photography lovers, anyone wanting the best Sri Lanka hot air balloon tour, and those who value experiences over possessions.
>> Book Hot Air Ballooning from Dambulla
