India being a country of topographical diversity and is arguably one the best places in paragliding around the world. Young enthusiasts as well professional paragliders can enjoy the thrill of flying from soaring over high Himalayan ranges to buzzing along cliffs with this Indian country. Be it adrenaline junkie looking for adventure, or peace seeker wanting to experience some stunning views from the sky, these paragliding destinations in India will not fail to mesmerise you.
1. Bir Billing, Himachal Pradesh
Paragliding in Bir Billing ( known as Paragliders heaven in India) This Among the best Paragliding spots of india. This is a sport with two main locations in India: Bir Billing of Himachal Pradesh primarily for paragliding and Sikkim, Tehri Garhwal etc. BIR BILLING Located at Kangra Valley; himachal Pradesh This hang gliding spot offers ideal updrafts even during low pressure conditions. The launch point is in Billing at 2,400 m height and the landing site for paragliding can be chosen from over a dozen sites available here.
Last but not the least, it recently gained its fame across the world for international recognition of hosting the Paragliding World Cup in 2015 where the sky over Bir Billing was filled up with paragliders from multiple nationalities flying together. The flight takes off from the Dharamshala airport, and is either a 15 or 30 minute ride across the Dhauladhar Range with awe inspiring views of mighty snow-capped mountains and lush green valleys beneath. Bir Billing is an experience of a lifetime, even if you are a beginner or advanced in Paragliding.
2. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Another gem of Himachal Pradesh is Manali which sits amongst the hills and mountains, known for its adventure sports paragliding being no exception. Solang valley is situated just 14 kms from Manali and paragliding lovers go to this place frequently. At 2,500 metres above sea level the takeoff point, one is expected to make their own way up and enjoy an astonishing view of snow laden peaks surrounded by Pine trees with a river Beas flowing below.
The best part of Solang Valley is that it has options for both short and long flights which makes a great spot for the beginners as well as professionals. Ideal Time for Paragliding: May to September (During this period, the weather is mild and skies are clear in Manali)
3. Nainital, Uttarakhand
Nainital, which is Uttarakhand’s most popular hill station and famous for its lakes also being recognized as an upcoming paragliding destination. The takeoff site is in a small village named Naukuchiatal, situated approximately 25 km far off from the city of Nainital. Your flight over the magnificent Kumaon region is one that you will remember as it gives stunning vistas of terraced fields amidst lush green hills, tranquillity infused with lakes.
Something that makes paragliding in Nainital one-of-a-kind is the stunningly calm locales there and a picturesque view of a delicious bunch of lakes, lying spread all over the landscape. Paragliding in Nainital is best enjoyed between March to June andalso during the months of September into November.
4. Kamshet, Maharashtra
Maharashtra Kamshet, near Lonavala is the most loved choice for Mumbaikars and Punekers. The undulating hills and vast spaces in the Sahyadri Ranges are all you need for a smooth paragliding flight/hike. The jumping off point is Tower Hill, 2.200ft above sea level from where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Western Ghats strewn with old forts, caves and verdant foliage
As the site is perfect for pilots of every level, even if you are a beginner , Kamshet has many paragliding schools which can provide all necessary training. It is a pleasure during monsoons (rainy season), but you cannot paraglide then as the winds are strong, otherwise October to June is an ideal time frame for visiting Kamshet.
5. Panchgani, Maharashtra
Another favourite destination in Maharashtra that also is famous for its tremendous views and paragliding spots nearby this city. Panchgani 1300 metres Located At It is a perfect destination for paragliding offering takeoff points at Sydney Point and Harrison’s Folly. Well, you will see the Krishna river along with TableLand plateau and surrounding hills during this extremely scenic flight.
All common modes of transportation connect Panchgani with places like Pune and Mumbai, so it is a perfect destination for a weekend retreat. Though Panchgani can be visited all year round; the best time to go paragliding is between October and April when the weather stays cool and pleasant.
6. Arambol, Goa
Goa, known for its beaches and throbbing nightlife is one of the popular tourist attractions that also includes paragliding. Soaring through the clear skies of North Goa above The Arabian Sea is something entirely different and you can experience that while in Arambol Beach. It takes off from a cliff side and soars through the azure waters to give you a fresh view of its paradisiacal coastline along with golden sands.
It is recommended to go paragliding in winters, November-March, when the weather is cool and skies are mostly clear. Goa is an experience in itself, but the rush of paragliding will surely make it memorable.
7. Ranikhet, Uttarakhand
Ranikhet: Experience paragliding in the calm and tranquil environs of Kumaon Hills at a less explored destination in Uttarakhand. The place from where the flight begins is Drona Parvat and it gives you an exciting view of Himalayan range, the Hill forest below which looks absolutely calm.
Situated at the altitude of 6000 ft in Ranikhet is an ultimate story sharing hub for you to avoid crowded tourist places and savour wordless experience with paragliding. If we talk about the best period for paragliding in Ranikhet– The ideal months are from March to May and September through November.
8. Gangtok, Sikkim
Gangtok is the unique paragliding sport in North East India. Starting point is Baliman Dara which is situated at an altitude of 1400 metres. The flight provides an aerial view of the snow-capped Kanchenjunga range, rolling green hills and valleys as well as it glimpses through Gangtok city.
The best time to paraglide in Gangtok are the summer months from March until June and then follows the Autumn season between September and November. The adventure of flying in such astonishing landscapes will certainly give paragliding lovers a once-in-a-lifetime experience here.
Conclusion
The different terrains of India offer a variety of paragliding experiences; with its calm mountains in Himachal Pradesh to the vibrant beaches in Goa. Adventurous as they are beautiful, these destinations make for an ideal escape if you’re a pro-paraglider or just keen to try it out. Ready your gear, go over to one of these amazing places and fly perhaps the best flight in your life.
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