Top 7 Paragliding Sites In India

Paragliding was never particularly common in India until recently. The adventure sport has evolved from humble beginnings to a mainstream adventure experience that everybody needs a piece of in the last ten or fifteen years. There are two compelling reasons to go paragliding. First, experience the thrill of soaring like an eagle, a brief but powerful adrenaline rush, and then brag to all your buddies. There’s no excuse you shouldn’t want to try paragliding, particularly when there are so many beautiful places to visit in India.

Nandi Hills

Nandi Hills

Nandi Hills, a peaceful hill town about 60 kilometres south of Bangalore, is a popular paragliding destination in the south. Many specialist paragliders choose Nandi Hills because of its ideal environment and plateaued terrain with hill canopies, which can be reached at a height of over 4500 feet. It has recently become a renowned paragliding destination for Bangalore and Hyderabad’s young adventurers. The hike to the take-off points is beautiful, and the perfect time to go paragliding here is all year, even during the monsoons. Book a paragliding session with one of the many seasoned professionals based in Bangalore.

Bedni Bugyal

Bedni Bugyal

The views of the meadows and alpine ranges from the summit will astound you. This is a unique paragliding adventure that only the most daring adventurers try. However, travelling over Kumaon’s wonders is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. September to May is the perfect time to visit. Bedni Bugyal, Uttarakhand’s most scenic paragliding resort, is located on the Roopkund Trek route. The trek from the hamlet of Wan to the take-off point in Bedni Bugyal is approximately 11 kilometres, making this the perfect trekking/paragliding experience.

Nainital

Nainital

Nainital, a city known for its lakes, provides paragliding at heights of up to 2000 metres. In Nainital, paragliding is available at two locations: Naukuchiatal and Bhimtal. With its stunning lakes under the flier, this hill station seems to be one of India’s finest paragliding destinations. The closest airport is Pantnagar, which is 65 kilometres away. You will fly to this airport on a chartered aircraft. However, the fastest way to get to Nainital is by car. You can also take the train there. The closest airport is in Kathgodam, which is 34 kilometres away. Many operators offer this aerial adventure sport here as well. The average height reached here is up to 1000 feet AGL (Above Ground Level, but operators will tell you it’s 6000+ feet ASL, which is meaningless since you don’t land at sea level). From top to bottom, the pleasure ride lasts 3-5 minutes. While you have the opportunity to stretch your flight time, you will just be circling.

Ranikhet

Ranikhet

In recent years, rafting and Rishikesh have become interchangeable. Young adventurers flock to this sacred hill station for its world-renowned white water rafting. However, for those interested in paragliding in Rishikesh, Ranikhet, which is 120 kilometres away, is a great choice. A variety of parasailing and paragliding activities are available from various operators in this region. The closest railway station to Ranikhet is Kathgodam, which is 101 kilometres away. The cost of paragliding in India is not prohibitively costly, so don’t be concerned about the cost and prepare to have the time of your life at one of India’s most popular paragliding locations.

Sanasar

Sanasar

Flying over the Jammu lakes and inhaling the fragrant air. Explore the sky of Jammu valleys and make your dream a reality. The paragliding place at Sanasar, which provides adventure junkies with wings to fly, is a breathtaking and energising location to enjoy one of their favourite adventure sports. Sanasar, about 19 kilometres from Patnitop, is a small slope resort with a glass-moulded knoll surrounded by monstrous conifers. The location itself is one of the best for paragliding.

Jodhpur

Jodhpur

A few of the latest and most popular in recent years, Jodhpur has emerged as one of India’s best and most unique paragliding destinations. SkyVentures, run by Mr Samarth Sharma (Advanced Paragliding and Hang Gliding pilot), directly flies his clients almost throughout the year, thanks to the expertise and efforts of the state’s only operator. Each flight lasts about 10 minutes on average, and the height reached is about 1500 feet above ground level, depending on weather conditions.
With a backup parachute and high-end equipment, plus over 12 years of experience and clear airspace, this operator ensures protection.

Manali

Manali

Manali, one of Himachal Pradesh’s most popular tourist destinations, is a breathtaking valley nestled in the Himalayan foothills. The town is situated between 5500 and 6000 feet above sea level, making it ideal for paragliding excursions. The adrenaline aspect of paragliding in the region just adds to the scenic appeal. Paragliding is common in the Solang Valley, Fatru Mountain, Gulaba, and Nagger Road areas. Except for the monsoon season, when paragliding is prohibited, one can literally admire the feel of the air from above for the rest of the year. It’s the perfect getaway for someone who enjoys both adventure and breathtaking scenery. You can go there by air, with the closest airport being Bhuntar, which is just 50 kilometres away, or by bus, which runs on a regular basis; there is also the possibility of taking a train. You should even go on a cycle ride if you’re feeling adventurous.