Ride To Fly: The Five Best Paragliding Destinations In India

If you are one of those who look for adventure beyond ground-based activities, you should try your hand at paragliding. Paragliding is an exhilarating sport that allows you to jump off a cliff, while hanging off a paraglider, and glide in the air for extended durations. The sport offers the thrill of flying, while also giving one a unique perspective of the world from high above the ground. While not many know about it, India is home to some amazing paragliding locations. In this article, we have listed down some of the best paragliding destinations in India. The best part - you can also ride to them and satisfy the adrenaline junkie in you. So if you are someone who loves travelling fast on the ground on two-wheelers, and also has the hankering to have a bird’s eye view of the world, this article is just for you.

Bir Billing

Located in Himachal Pradesh, Bir Billing is considered one of the best paragliding destinations not only in India but also in the world. It is home to the highest take-off site in the world, making it a popular spot for experienced paragliders. The region is renowned for its powerful thermals and reliable wind conditions, making it the perfect place for paragliding. It also offers breath-taking views of the Dhauladhar mountain range. Numerous paragliding schools, which provide instruction and certification to both novice and seasoned pilots, are located in Bir Billing. The region provides retreats for meditation, in addition to paragliding and offers several other activities like hiking and camping for adventure enthusiasts. Bir Billing is a must-visit destination for any adventure seeker or nature lover due to its stunning natural setting and abundance of adventure sports.

Kamshet

About two hours’ ride from Pune and Mumbai is Kamshet, a stunning paragliding location in the state of Maharashtra. The region is well known for its beautiful hills and valleys as well as its steady and reliable thermals, making it an ideal destination for paragliders of all levels. In Kamshet, the paragliding season lasts between October and May, when pilots can take advantage of the robust thermals and soothing flying conditions. Additionally, Kamshet is home to a number of paragliding schools that provide training to new pilots. The area offers picturesque views of the Western Ghats and the Mumbai-Pune expressway. The region also offers activities like hiking, camping, and bird-watching in addition to paragliding. If you reside in Mumbai or Pune, you will be able to ride to Kamshet, paraglide and ride back home; all in a day.

Solang Valley

Himachal Pradesh is home to well-known paragliding location of India - the Solang Valley. Solang Valley is popular among adventurers for its adventure sports and is known for its spectacular views of the Himalayan Mountain range. Pilots can take advantage of the robust thermals and favourable flying conditions during the Solang Valley paragliding season, which runs from late February until June. Several paragliding schools in Solang Valley also provide instruction and certification for both novice and seasoned pilots. The region also provides activities like skiing, zorbing, and cable car rides in addition to paragliding. If you are someone who likes to engage in adventure sports, Solang valley is the perfect destination for you.

Manali

Manali is another charming hill town in the state of Himachal Pradesh. Apart from being a hot tourist destination, Manali has also earned a reputation as a paragliding location. The region is renowned for its powerful thermals and consistent wind conditions, making it perfect for paragliding, while also offering enchanting views of the Himalayan Mountain range. Additionally, there are a few paragliding schools in Manali that provide instructions and certification for both beginner and seasoned pilots. Pilots can take advantage of the ideal flying conditions in Manali from late March until June during the paragliding season. In the winter months you’ll also be able to experience snowfall and enjoy skiing. Additionally, Manali is a great place for sight-seeing and trekking.

Nashik

Located in Maharashtra, Nashik is known for its beautiful vineyards and scenic countryside. Nashik is an emerging paragliding destination. Beautiful hills and valleys surround the area, providing excellent paragliding conditions. Pilots can take advantage of Nashik's steady thermals and reliable flying conditions from October through May, which is the paragliding season. A bunch of paragliding schools in Nashik also provide certification to newbies. The region also provides activities like hiking, camping, and sightseeing in addition to paragliding. Nashik is a must-visit location for any adventure seeker or nature lover due to its stunning landscapes and abundance of adventure sports. You can also relax and calm your nerves with some fine wine at the various vineyards after a thrilling day of riding and paragliding.

When planning a paragliding ride, it's important to keep in mind that weather conditions and flying seasons vary depending on the location. It's best to check the weather forecast and talk to local paragliding clubs or instructors before heading out. Additionally, it's always recommended to take a certified paragliding training course and fly with an experienced pilot.