Amidst the silence of an early morning, the rushing sound of the gas burner as the pilot turns the blast valve which inflates the hundreds of metres of fabric above your head, commonly known as a hot air balloon, is a rush like no other.

Ascending into a clear blue sky, almost silently, with nothing between you and the birds but a large basket, is one of the most amazing thrills you can ever experience.

It’s something everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. Floating over the countryside you’ll see unimaginable views of your surroundings, and with no engines, no real noise, you’ll see things not possible from any other way but above.

Be prepared to take off and land at the direction of your pilot as ballooning relies solely on the direction of the winds.

Ballooning is becoming popular in many Asian destinations, so where should you go to float like a butterfly and get the best instagrammable pics ever on your travels?

 

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai is the unhurried, cultural and artistic hub of Thailand. It’s also a beautiful setting for a hot air balloon ride.

Soaring above the trees, lakes and streams of the Thai countryside, you’ll silently float above amazing wildlife roaming the valleys and hills, as well as small villages, at a height up to around 2,000 feet.

 

Kathmandu, Nepal

As if the Himalayas can be any more exhilarating, try floating over the Kathmandu Valley for a view you’ll find difficult to shake off.

Soaring up to around 10,000 foot, see the Himalayas as never before and take a deep, clean breath of fresh mountain air. The dawn over Kathmandu is spectacular, as the sun lights up the rich green hills, terraces and tiny terracotta houses.

As the first light dances on the snowcapped peaks of Gosainthan, Phurbi-Gyacho and more, you’ll never look at flight the same way ever again.

 

Bagan, Myanmar

This magical location, home to hundreds of ancient temples, some the oldest in Asia, is the perfect grounds for a hot air balloon flight. Your guide will share the intriguing history of some of this country’s most historic shrines and temples, with great views of the Ayeyarwaddy River. Romance, history and culture in one perfect dawn.

 

Saga, Japan

Once the ballooning bug has bitten, it’s difficult to rid yourself of it. So you’ll understand large annual gatherings of ballooning enthusiasts gathering at festivals that fill the skies with colour.

On the island of Kyushu in Japan, the Saga International Balloon Fiesta is held each November. Hundreds of balloons in every shape and size take to the air and categories of competition add to the excitement and character of the event.

It’s now become the largest balloon competition in Asia is well worth a visit.

 

Anita Duffun for BeMyGuest