Paragliding is a good way to fly without spending loads on purchasing airline tickets. A glider is like a small aircraft without a motor that flies by the application of the principles of aerodynamics. The main structure of the glider is a wing of cloth, woven around a lightweight frame. You will sit in a harness, which is attached to the wing and has controls for adjusting the speed and direction. There are hordes of opportunities for paragliding in Uttarakhand as most parts of the state have a hilly terrain. The hills provide natural take-off sites, and the valleys below become ideal for landing.

While you are here to enjoy its natural charm, you can also try Uttarakhand paragliding as the activity is hosted at a number of destinations in the state. There are numerous clubs in the state that have expert trainers and operators. Before your flight, you will be given an introductory briefing on the various aspects of the adventure sport. You will be informed about the glider, its controls, take-off and landing techniques, how to navigate and how to change the direction or angle of attack during the flight. During the lessons, you should ask your instructor all the questions that arise in your mind so as be clear with the sport.

There are a few important things to keep in mind before participating in paragliding adventures in Uttarakhand. The activity is recommended for only those people, who do not have a fragile heart. Flying at a good height is bound to get your adrenaline rushing, increasing your heart rate in the process. Another condition you should be careful of is not being afraid of heights, as it is what will give you the adrenaline rush. A good thing about the activity is that it can be enjoyed by people of any age. Another thing that will probably cheer you up is that locations, where it is hosted, have training institutes that offer dedicated courses.

Best Locations for Paragliding in Uttarakhand

While Kamshet, Maharashtra and Bir Billing, Himachal Pradesh are popular destinations for the activity, paragliding in Uttarakhand is also gaining ground. Most of the state is dotted by mountains and hills, providing ideal settings for the organisation of this thrilling activity. Culturally, the state is often divided into two parts: Kumaon and Garhwal, and both regions have plenty of spots fit for the sport. One of the most popular such destinations is the holy city of Rishikesh, located in the Garhwal region on the banks of the Ganga River. Another place you can throng to enjoy flying in the sky is the Queen of Hills, Mussoorie. The launching site is near the town in a place, called Dhanaulti, which is known for its scenic mountains and deodars forests.

Experienced participants can choose to undertake Uttarakhand paragliding in Dayara Bugyal – a breathtaking meadow located more than 10000 feet above sea level. If you fancy alpine grasslands, then you can also flock to Bedini Bugyal in the Kumaon region of the state. Although devoid of coniferous trees unlike the former, Bedini Bugyal is an excellent site for the activity owing to its gentle slopes. For those, who want to be near basic provisions, Pithoragarh is a good option. This hill station has a number of hotels and shops of all kinds so that you are never far from home while enjoying the sport.

Naukuchiatal, translating into the nine-cornered lake, is yet another place, where paragliding adventures in Uttarakhand are hosted. The launching site is a little above the hill station on a stretch of land, which has both gentle slopes, as well as flat ground.

Paragliding Adventures in Uttarakhand

Best Time to Go for Paragliding in Uttarakhand

When you can participate in the exciting sport depends on the weather of the place you are planning to do it in. Being a mostly mountainous state, different regions within Uttarakhand have different weather patterns. Winters and summers are ideal for indulging in the activity in places like Rishikesh and Pithoragarh. On the other hand, paragliding is hosted in Mussoorie, Dayara Bugyal and Bedini Bugyal only in summers, as winters are characterised by moderate to heavy snowfall.