The hot air balloon flight trials conducted at the Ani Archaeological Site, also known as the “World City”, “Cradle of Civilizations”, “City of a Thousand Churches”, and “City with 40 Gates”, have attracted the attention of the public. With the support of the Serhat Development Agency (SERKA) under the auspices of the Kars Governorate, the hot air balloon flights were initiated to promote balloon activities in Kars tourism.
SERKA Secretary General Nurullah Karaca stated that the purpose of this event is to introduce a new tourism activity to Kars, which is an emerging tourism destination. The aim is to develop hot air balloon activities in Ani, Sarıkamış, and Çıldır Lake, similar to what is seen in Cappadocia. The goal is to enhance the tourism potential of the region through these balloon activities.
For the first time, hot air balloons were flown at the Ani Archaeological Site, allowing the public to experience this unique activity. Balloon flights will be permitted in Ani as deemed appropriate, providing visitors – both local and foreign tourists – the opportunity to observe the historical site from the air.
The introduction of hot air balloon flights in Kars is expected to enhance the tourism experience and attract more visitors to the region. By offering a different perspective of Ani Archaeological Site from the sky, tourists will have the opportunity to appreciate the historical and cultural significance of the region in a unique and memorable way.
The hot air balloon flights mark a significant milestone in the efforts to promote Kars as a growing tourism destination. By diversifying the range of tourist activities available in the region, these balloon flights contribute to the overall development of the tourism sector in Kars and offer a new and exciting way for visitors to explore the rich historical and cultural heritage of the area.
Overall, the hot air balloon flights at the Ani Archaeological Site represent a step towards further enriching the tourism offerings in Kars and showcasing the region’s unique attractions. As more tourists are drawn to the area to experience these balloon flights, Kars has the opportunity to establish itself as a must-visit destination for those seeking a blend of history, culture, and adventure in their travel experiences.
