Manisha Bushahri

India has some fantastic destinations for paragliding, offering thrilling experiences with breathtaking views. Here are some of the best paragliding spots in India:

1. Bir Billing, Himachal Pradesh

• Best for: Paragliding enthusiasts, panoramic views, and high-altitude flights
• Highlights: Known as the “Paragliding Capital of India,” Bir Billing is one of the world’s top paragliding destinations. The takeoff point is at Billing, and the landing is at Bir, offering a 20-30 minute flight over the beautiful Kangra Valley with views of the Dhauladhar Range. The area also hosts the annual Paragliding World Cup.

2. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

• Best for: Scenic flights, snow-capped mountains, and adventure lovers
• Highlights: Manali offers great paragliding experiences with flights that provide stunning views of the Beas River Valley, Pir Panjal ranges, and Solang Valley. The paragliding season here is mostly between May and October.

3. Panchgani, Maharashtra

• Best for: Beginners, serene landscapes, and monsoon flights
• Highlights: This hill station near Mumbai and Pune is known for its gentle winds and lush landscapes, making it ideal for beginner and intermediate paragliders. Panchgani offers views of Sahyadri mountain ranges and valleys and is popular for tandem flights.

4. Kamshet, Maharashtra

• Best for: Beginner courses, weekend trips, and scenic Western Ghats views
• Highlights: Located near Pune and Mumbai, Kamshet is a great destination for paragliding beginners. Known for its calm weather, Kamshet offers flights over rolling hills, small villages, and picturesque scenery.

5. Nainital, Uttarakhand

• Best for: Lakeside views, mountainous terrain, and adventure
• Highlights: Nainital’s paragliding flights provide beautiful aerial views of Naini Lake, lush forests, and the surrounding Kumaon Hills. The paragliding season in Nainital runs from March to June and September to December.

6. Yelagiri, Tamil Nadu

• Best for: South India travelers, calm weather, and scenic landscapes
• Highlights: Located in the Eastern Ghats, Yelagiri offers favorable weather and scenic landscapes for paragliding. It’s an excellent option for paragliders in South India and provides views of hills, forests, and villages.

7. Shillong, Meghalaya

• Best for: Nature lovers, hill views, and cultural experiences
• Highlights: Shillong offers a unique paragliding experience in the Northeastern region of India. The flights here provide views of rolling green hills, waterfalls, and the beautiful Khasi Hills, ideal for adventure seekers.

These destinations not only provide thrilling paragliding experiences but also showcase India’s diverse landscapes. Bir Billing, Manali, and Kamshet are particularly popular with both beginners and seasoned paragliders, offering flights with professional instructors and scenic beauty at every altitude.