High-flying attraction to take visitors 100 to 300 feet above ground

Mysuru: Mysuru Dasara may get a new attraction this year, with the Department of Tourism preparing a proposal to introduce tethered hot-air balloon rides during the 11-day festival.

If approved by the State Government, this would be the first time that hot air balloon rides are introduced as part of the Dasara celebrations. The rides are proposed to be held at Shashiranjan Grounds near Lalitha Mahal Palace Hotel from Oct. 11 to 21.

Under the proposed tethered balloon model, the balloon will be securely anchored to the ground and take passengers to a height of around 100 to 300 feet. Each ride is expected to accommodate up to six passengers and last five to 10 minutes.

From the air, visitors will get panoramic views of Mysuru’s prominent landmarks, including the Palace, Chamundi Hill, water bodies and city’s tree canopy.

Feasible alternatives explored

Tourism Assistant Director V.M. Prabhuswamy told Star of Mysore that free-flying hot air balloons over places such as Chamundi Hill and Kukkarahalli Lake were not considered practical due to aviation safety requirements, availability of trained pilots and airspace restrictions.

“Tethered hot air balloon rides are a feasible alternative, as the balloon remains secured with ropes and rises vertically to around 100 to 300 feet before descending,” he said.

Safety would be a key consideration. The rides are proposed to be operated by certified pilots through Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)-approved operators and would be subject to weather conditions. The activity is likely to be held mainly in the early morning or evening.

The Tourism Department is also considering other open grounds in and around Mysuru, including Chamundi Vihar Stadium and Varuna grasslands, depending on the final arrangements, Prabhuswamy said.

Night-time balloon glow shows, in which illuminated balloons light up the skyline, are also being considered as part of the attraction.

Helicopter rides, treasure hunt

Apart from hot air balloon rides, the Department is preparing proposals for helicopter rides and a treasure hunt in association with private organisations to add more adventure-based activities to the Dasara celebrations.

The initiatives are aimed at offering tourists experiences beyond traditional festival attractions while showcasing Mysuru’s cultural and historical heritage. A stakeholders’ meeting is expected to be convened shortly to finalise the programme and explore sponsorship opportunities.

H.P. Janardhan, Joint Director of Tourism, Bengaluru, said the proposals had been submitted to the higher authorities and the Department was awaiting approval. “The final decision will be taken next week,” he said.

On helicopter rides, Prabhuswamy said operators and relevant contacts had been approached well in advance to avoid the last-minute approval and coordination issues faced in previous years.