Are you ready for a thrilling new way to experience the stunning beauty of Agra and its iconic Taj Mahal? Well, hop on board because Agra is about to take your tourist game to new heights, literally! If you're planning a visit to this mesmerizing city, here's some exciting news for you.
Soaring Over the Taj Mahal
Imagine yourself floating high in the sky in a colorful hot air balloon, gazing down at the majestic Taj Mahal. It's not a dream anymore! Agra is all set to offer hot air balloon rides, allowing you to see the city's wonders from a whole new perspective. These thrilling rides are part of the Taj Carnival, a cultural extravaganza that kicks off on Sunday and runs until November 25.
The Taj Carnival: Where Fun Takes Flight
If you've heard about the famous Taj Mahotsav in February, think of the Taj Carnival as its cooler, free-spirited sibling. Unlike the Taj Mahotsav, which requires tickets, the Taj Carnival is open to everyone. It's a ten-day fiesta filled with mouthwatering delights from various Indian cuisines, including Brij, Rajasthani, Awadhi, Mughlai, Gujarati, and South Indian. More than 50 food vendors will tantalize your taste buds. You can also shop for exquisite pottery, wood carvings, and handicrafts made by local artisans. Plus, 2023 has been declared the "Year of Millet," so you can expect a special stall showcasing nutritious millet products.
But that's not all! Folk performances from artists across India will keep you entertained at this funfair. It's a cultural explosion that you won't want to miss.
So, What's the Buzz About Balloon Rides?
The highlight of the Taj Carnival is undoubtedly the hot air balloon rides, starting on October 17th. Initially available for five days, the duration might be extended if there's enough demand. These magical rides will take you on a 3.5-kilometer loop, offering breathtaking views of the Taj Mahal, Mehtab Bagh, and Agra Fort. However, they won't soar directly over the Taj Mahal, as it's a no-fly zone. The balloons will launch from the Yamuna River bank, about 1 kilometer away from the Taj Mahal.
The best part? You can enjoy this experience with up to seven other adventure seekers, depending on the weather conditions. As for the price, well, it's still up in the air, quite literally, and will be decided after the contract is awarded. Prahalad Agarwal, the head of the Agra Tourist Welfare Chamber, is a big advocate for keeping attractions like the Taj Carnival and hot air balloon rides permanently available in Agra. He believes that tourists should spend more than just a day in Agra to truly contribute to the growth of tourism in this beautiful city.
So, the next time you plan a visit to the Taj Mahal, consider extending your stay. After all, a hot air balloon ride over this incredible wonder is an experience you'll cherish forever. Agra is taking tourism to new heights, quite literally, and it's an adventure you won't want to miss.
Planning to travel to Agra anytime soon? Check out this article for things you cannot miss in Agra. This is Agra beyond Taj and you must visit it to experience it to the fullest.
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