Maldives’ first ever hot air balloon festival concluded Tuesday with much fanfare, as organisers announced plans to start providing commercial hot air balloon excursions across the archipelago.

Maldives Hot Air Balloon Festival 2017, organised by private company Unix Sporting in association with Ministry of Youth and Sports and Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), was held in the satellite town of Hulhumale from Sunday to Tuesday. After much difficulties due to bad weather, spectators witnessed three hot air balloons take into air, with a few getting the chance to get onboard Tuesday evening.

The hot air balloons were operated by Indian experts.

In addition to the balloon rides, the entrance free festival also focused on bringing together people of all ages to enjoy a number of other activities as well, including live music, Night Glow Photo Shoot, Inflatable Fun Park for kids and photo booths.

Reyshan Shareef, Managing Director of Unix Sporting, told local media that despite the initial hurdles, the festival was a success and was well-received by the public. Commercial hot air balloon excursions will be provided in the future with more balloons brought in for the venture, he added.

“Tourists would love to see the natural beauty of the Maldives from a hot air balloon,” Shareef said.

Unix Sporting is also planning to introduce more adventure sports activities to the Maldives, especially targeted towards the youth.

Despite being new to the Maldives, hot air balloon rides are a popular activity amongst tourists in several countries around the world. Neighbouring countries, including India and Sri Lanka also offer hot air balloon rides to explore their natural landscape.

Photo credits: Avas Online