Top Paragliding Destinations in India
Paragliding is a thrilling adventure sport. It allows participants to glide through the skies, enjoying breathtaking views. India, with its varied landscapes and favourable weather, is a prime location for paragliding. This page marks some of the best paragliding destinations in the country.
1. Bir Billing, Himachal Pradesh
Bir Billing is a small village located in the Kangra Valley. It is a renowned paragliding hub.
Location
Bir is situated at an altitude of approximately 2,400 meters (7,874 feet) above sea level.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal months for paragliding are March to June and September to November.
Features
- Hosts the Paragliding World Cup.
- Offers stunning views of the Dhauladhar mountain range.
- Multiple operators provide tandem flights and training courses.
2. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Manali is a popular hill station located in the Kullu Valley.
Location
The launch site is at around 2,050 meters (6,726 feet).
Best Time to Visit
The best months for paragliding are March to June and September to October.
Features
- Scenic views of snow-capped mountains and lush valleys.
- Paragliding sites include Solang Valley and Kothi.
- Adventure sports hub, offering trekking and skiing.
3. Kamshet, Maharashtra
Kamshet is located near Lonavala, approximately 100 kilometers from Mumbai.
Location
The launch site is at an altitude of about 600 meters (1,968 feet).
Best Time to Visit
The prime time for paragliding is from October to May.
Features
- Known for its favourable wind conditions.
- Offers panoramic views of the Western Ghats and nearby lakes.
- Training schools are available for beginners.
4. Nainital, Uttarakhand
Nainital is a picturesque hill station in the Kumaon region.
Location
The launch site is at approximately 2,200 meters (7,218 feet).
Best Time to Visit
The best time for paragliding is from March to June and September to November.
Features
- Paragliding over Naini Lake and surrounding hills.
- Offers a unique view of the town and its natural beauty.
- Various operators provide tandem flights and training.
5. Shillong, Meghalaya
Shillong is the capital city of Meghalaya, known for its scenic beauty.
Location
The launch site is at around 1,500 meters (4,921 feet).
Best Time to Visit
The ideal months for paragliding are from October to April.
Features
- Offers stunning views of the Khasi hills and lush greenery.
- Paragliding activities are conducted at various sites around Shillong.
- Known for its pleasant weather and vibrant culture.
6. Panchgani, Maharashtra
Panchgani is a hill station located near Mahabaleshwar.
Location
The launch site is at around 1,300 meters (4,265 feet).
Best Time to Visit
The best time for paragliding is from October to May.
Features
- Known for its scenic landscapes and strawberry farms.
- Offers tandem flights with experienced pilots.
- Popular among tourists for its cool climate and natural beauty.
7. Auli, Uttarakhand
Auli is a ski resort situated in the Garhwal region.
Location
The launch site is at approximately 2,500 meters (8,202 feet).
Best Time to Visit
Paragliding is best during summer months, while skiing is popular from December to March.
Features
- Offers stunning views of Nanda Devi and other peaks.
- Known for adventure sports, including skiing and trekking.
- Paragliding provides a unique perspective of the snow-covered landscape.
8. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
Jaisalmer is a desert city known for its golden sands and historic forts.
Location
The launch site is at around 200 meters (656 feet).
Best Time to Visit
The prime months for paragliding are from October to March.
Features
- Unique desert paragliding experience over sand dunes.
- Offers a different perspective of the Thar Desert.
- Adventure activities include camel rides and desert safaris.
9. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Rishikesh is known as the “Yoga Capital of the World.” It is situated on the banks of the Ganges River.
Location
The launch site is at approximately 1,200 meters (3,937 feet).
Best Time to Visit
The ideal months for paragliding are from September to June.
Features
- Paragliding over the scenic Ganges River and surrounding hills.
- Popular for adventure sports, including white-water rafting and trekking.
- Offers a spiritual experience along with adventure.
10. Kullu, Himachal Pradesh
Kullu is a valley located in northern India.
Location
The launch site is at around 1,500 meters (4,921 feet).
Best Time to Visit
The best months for paragliding are from March to June and September to October.
Features
- Known for its lush green valleys and rivers.
- Offers tandem flights with experienced pilots.
- A hub for various adventure sports, including trekking and river rafting.