November 10, 2023 – In a significant stride towards enhancing Haryana’s tourism landscape, Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar recently inaugurated a thrilling addition – the hot air balloon safari in Pinjore. This adventure-packed experience comes at an affordable price of INR 13,000, allowing enthusiasts to soar above the scenic landscapes and capture breathtaking views.
Accompanied by Haryana Assembly Speaker Gian Chand Gupta and School Education and Heritage and Tourism Minister Kanwar Pal, Chief Minister Khattar took to the skies for the inaugural hot air balloon safari. This marks the commencement of a new era in Haryana’s tourism offerings, opening up avenues for both adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.
Chief Minister Khattar expressed the vast potential for tourism in Haryana and affirmed the government’s commitment to diversifying tourism activities. Beyond the hot air balloon safari, the state is actively promoting water and adventure sports, including paragliding, water sports, jet scooters, para sailing, trekking, and more. The Tikkartal area near Morni Hills has transformed into a hub for thrilling activities, with future plans for eco-tourism initiatives in Morni Hills in collaboration with the Forest Department.
Highlighting the strategic development of the Shivalik and Aravalli regions, the Chief Minister outlined comprehensive roadmaps aimed at attracting global tourists. A major undertaking is the creation of the world’s largest jungle safari park, sprawling across 10,000 acres in Gurugram and Nuh districts within the Aravalli mountain range. This ambitious project not only seeks to preserve the natural beauty of the Aravalli mountains but also aims to boost tourism in Gurugram and Nuh.
Pinjore, the site of the hot air balloon safari, has more to offer beyond the skies.
Tourists exploring the region can indulge in various activities:
1. Pinjore Gardens: Designed in the Rajasthani Mughal style by Fidahi Khan, these terraced gardens feature the Sheesh Mahal, Rang Mahal, and the Jal Mahal. Cascading waterfalls and fountains add to the charm of this historical site.
2. Sheesh Mahal & Rang Mahal: Offering panoramic views of the landscape, Sheesh Mahal was once the residence for women during their visits to the gardens. Rang Mahal, on the next level, served as the residence for the Maharaja of Patiala, providing breathtaking vistas, especially under the moonlight.
3. Bhima Devi Temple: Adjacent to Pinjore Gardens, this ancient temple dates back to the 8th-11th century AD. A protected monument, it showcases erotic sculptures arranged as an open-air museum, featuring idols of Apsaras, Gandharvas, gods, goddesses, animals, and captivating images of contemporary life, with the idol of Lord Shiva at its center.
4. Pandava Cave: Part of the “Karol ka Tibba” trek, this mysterious cave connects Solan to the Bhima Devi temple complex in Pinjore. Surrounded by grasslands, dense forests, and small ponds, the cave is believed to be the oldest and longest in the Himalayan region, exuding an aura of ancient allure.
The hot air balloon safari in Pinjore adds a new dimension to Haryana’s tourism, blending adventure with the state’s rich cultural and historical heritage. As the skies open up to thrill-seekers, the diverse offerings on the ground continue to captivate visitors, making Haryana a multifaceted destination for travel enthusiasts.