Paragliding in India: Soaring Over Scenic Landscapes
When it comes to adventure sports in India, nothing quite matches the thrill and serenity of paragliding in India. Imagine being suspended mid-air, gliding peacefully like a bird as you take in panoramic views of misty mountains, lush valleys, golden beaches, and rugged cliffs. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or a nature lover, paragliding is one of the best ways to explore the country's breathtaking diversity.
India, with its vast and varied topography, offers an incredible range of paragliding spots—from well-known hotspots to unexplored places in India waiting to be discovered. In this blog, we’ll explore the most stunning and offbeat travel India destinations where you can soar the skies.
1. Bir Billing, Himachal Pradesh – The Paragliding Capital of India
Tucked away in the Kangra Valley, Bir Billing is undoubtedly the most famous destination for paragliding in India and even hosted the Paragliding World Cup in 2015. Set against the backdrop of the Dhauladhar mountain range, this high-altitude site offers thermals, ridge lifts, and jaw-dropping views that stretch to the horizon.
- Take-off Site: Billing (2400 meters)
- Landing Site: Bir (1400 meters)
- Best Season: March to June and October to November
- Highlights: Snow-capped peaks, pine forests, Tibetan monasteries
Bir Billing is not just a hotspot; it’s also among the hidden gems in India for its culture and calm vibe. After your flight, explore local cafes, meditation centers, and scenic trails.
2. Manali, Himachal Pradesh – A Popular Adventure Hub
A well-loved hill station, Manali is also home to some exciting paragliding zones. Solang Valley and Marhi are the key spots where you can enjoy tandem paragliding while witnessing the beauty of snow-laden peaks and lush green valleys.
- Take-off Site: Solang Valley / Marhi
- Best Season: May to October
- Highlights: Rohtang Pass views, lush meadows, accessibility
Though it’s a popular destination, Solang still offers some offbeat travel India vibes if you explore the outer edges. You’ll find quieter take-off points and untouched spots for a serene gliding experience.
3. Kamshet, Maharashtra – A Western Ghats Wonder
Just a couple of hours from Mumbai and Pune, Kamshet is an emerging paradise for paragliders. Surrounded by the undulating Western Ghats, ancient cave temples, and sparkling lakes, it offers a refreshing escape from city life.
- Take-off Site: Tower Hill and Shelar Hill
- Best Season: October to May
- Highlights: Gentle winds, scenic lake views, historic sites
Often overlooked, Kamshet is among the unexplored places in India for aerial sports and makes a great weekend adventure spot.
4. Nandi Hills, Karnataka – Southern Skies Calling
Close to Bangalore, Nandi Hills is a stunning hill fortress that now doubles as a great paragliding location. The rolling hills and open skies provide the perfect canvas for your aerial adventure.
- Take-off Site: Nandi Hills Top
- Best Season: October to May
- Highlights: Sunrise flights, panoramic vistas of Bangalore plains
What makes Nandi Hills a great offbeat travel India destination is its mix of natural beauty and ancient charm. You’re flying over a place steeped in history!
5. Vagamon, Kerala – Paragliding in God’s Own Country
Kerala may be known for its backwaters, but Vagamon, nestled in the Western Ghats, is a rising star in the paragliding scene. With vast meadows, pine forests, and cool temperatures, it’s ideal for both beginners and experienced gliders.
- Take-off Site: Kolahalamedu Hills
- Best Season: September to March
- Highlights: Tea gardens, foggy cliffs, serene vibe
Vagamon is a true hidden gem in India, offering an untouched experience with low tourist density and lush surroundings.
6. Ranikhet, Uttarakhand – A Serene Escape
For those looking for offbeat travel India experiences, Ranikhet provides a peaceful yet thrilling paragliding destination. The Himalayan vistas, combined with gentle winds and clear skies, make it perfect for a quiet flight.
- Take-off Site: Dwarahat Road
- Best Season: March to June, September to October
- Highlights: Himalayan views, colonial charm, tranquility
It’s still under the radar, making it one of the unexplored places in India for aerial adventures.
7. Shillong, Meghalaya – Clouds Beneath Your Feet
The “Scotland of the East,” Shillong, offers paragliding over rolling green hills and mist-covered valleys. Mawkdok Dympep Valley near Cherrapunji is a popular paragliding site gaining traction for its surreal landscapes.
- Take-off Site: Mawkdok
- Best Season: October to April
- Highlights: Waterfalls, cloud-kissed cliffs, deep valleys
Paragliding in Shillong is a dream for those seeking hidden gems in India with spectacular natural beauty.
8. Arambol, Goa – Fly Over the Arabian Sea
Goa isn’t just about parties and beaches—it’s also a paragliding haven. Arambol Beach, located in North Goa, offers coastal paragliding with spectacular views of the Arabian Sea.
- Take-off Site: Cliff near Arambol Beach
- Best Season: October to February
- Highlights: Beach views, ocean breezes, sunset flights
It’s a great way to enjoy adventure sports India style while soaking up tropical vibes.
9. Yelagiri, Tamil Nadu – South India’s Secret Sky Spot
Nestled in the Eastern Ghats, Yelagiri is a sleepy hill station that offers beginner-friendly paragliding opportunities. With wide open skies and minimal interference, it’s perfect for first-timers.
- Take-off Site: Swamimalai Hill
- Best Season: November to March
- Highlights: Uninterrupted views, peaceful setting, less crowded
Not many know about Yelagiri’s adventure offerings, making it one of the top hidden gems in India for paragliding.
10. Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand – A Himalayan Hidden Gem
Bordering Nepal and Tibet, Pithoragarh is not on the usual tourist map, but it’s an upcoming hub for paragliding. With views of Nanda Devi and Panchachuli ranges, flying here is nothing short of majestic.
- Take-off Site: Thal Kedar and nearby hills
- Best Season: April to June, September to October
- Highlights: Snow peaks, pristine valleys, cultural richness
This is truly an unexplored place in India, ideal for those who want to combine thrill with remoteness.
Tips Before You Fly
- Choose Certified Operators: Ensure safety gear, certified instructors, and proper weather checks.
- Wear Comfortable Clothing: Layer up if you’re flying in high-altitude or cooler regions.
- Check Age & Health Requirements: Most places allow tandem paragliding for people above 14 years, but fitness is key.
- Capture It: Many operators offer GoPro footage—worth every second!
Final Thoughts
Paragliding in India is more than just an adventure—it’s a spiritual experience of freedom, thrill, and perspective. Whether you’re gliding over pine-clad mountains in Himachal or cruising over coastal cliffs in Goa, every flight is a window into India’s rich and varied landscapes.
From bustling hotspots like Bir Billing to unexplored places in India like Pithoragarh and Yelagiri, there’s no shortage of incredible take-off points. If you’re someone who seeks the unusual, the beautiful, and the daring, then paragliding is your gateway to discovering the hidden gems in India.
So, pack your courage, strap into your harness, and take off. The skies of India are calling—and there’s no better view than the one from above.