Cappadocia’s surreal landscape was sculpted over millions of years by volcanic eruptions and erosion. It is a spectacle of towering rock formations, whimsically dubbed “fairy chimneys,” dominate the horizon, creating an otherworldly atmosphere that is captivating. And seeing it from the air in a balloon was a dream!
We woke up at 3.45 am to leave for the site at 4.15 am. Why this ungodly hour? Hot air balloons fly early morning at sunrise or in the evening at sunset as the wind and temperature conditions are just right. When we reached the site our balloon was ‘sleeping’ and soon the pumping of gas into the balloon started. Slowly we saw many balloons rising around us.
Finally our balloon was ready. The basket under the balloon was split into 4 compartments with 5 persons in each. A very scientific way of distributing the weight. Then we climbed/jumped into our basket.
The ride began. We watched the Rock and cave homes in different shapes and sizes from the air. An interesting drama on the ground was bridal photoshoots. The impala like cars we saw in Goreme town were also in play.
As we floated in the air the sun rose slowly from behind the mountains. A most gorgeous sunrise I have witnessed.
It was a thrilling one hour flight. Got an additional 15 minutes ride as the balloonist on board and the team on the ground looked for space to land. The landing was an amazing process. The balloon moved down and a large trailer moved in sync on the ground. Each of the baskets with the passengers landed smoothly on the trailer! We were truly amazed at the precision of the occupation. And as an Economist I was thrilled to see the employment it was creating, at least 10-12 persons per balloon.
Then began our descent. The team below was following us and guiding the descent on to the trailer. After we landed on the trailer the balloon was slowly deflated.
Then began the celebrations for the safe flight, safe landing and team work. Non alcoholic champagne bottle was opened. We were awarded Certificate of Balloon Flight. And a group photo. Surely each flight is a victory for the team and for us too.
Unni-Verse 
Wonderful pictures Jeemol. Spend a couple of days more in Istanbul to explore on your own; possibly one of culturally most rich cities in the world. We used to transit throgh Istanbul for most part of our 5 year stay in Kyrgyztan. I never stayed in the modern Taksim area; my preference was in the old city close to the blue mosque to get the feel for the sounds, smells, and food of the city. Have a safe trip back, regards Tulsi V B Tulasidhar I 2902 My Home BjoojaKnowledge City, RaidurgamHyderabad 500 081 INDIAMob:+91 800 889 1313
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