Goa government launches hot air balloon, amphibious vehicle

PANAJI: Adding attractions to its tourism portfolio, the Goa government today launched hot air balloon and amphibious vehicles in the picturesque state of beaches.

Tourists can now travel in the hot air balloon that will fly over picturesque landscape offering aerial view of the popular tourist destinations.

The new facilities were launched here in presence of Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar, Defence minister Manohar Parrikar, State tourism minister Dilip Parulekar and others.

Delhi-based Camping Retreats of India Pvt Ltd will run the two services from Panaji initially, and will be later operated from other prominent tourist spots of the state.

Amphibious vehicle, which can run on road and ply in waters, was also launched.

"This new venture is all set to give tourists a thrilling experience in Goa's inland waterways," Parulekar told reporters after the launch.

He said tourists can tour across backwaters and catch a glimpse of the flora and fauna in the surroundings.

"The 33-seater passenger vessel can operate across seven routes in five talukas of Goa," he added.