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Paragliding in Nepal: Himalayans Challanging flying Adventure

By Pasang

Paragliding in Nepal: the Himalayan Flying

Nepal is internationally renowned in terms of trekking, high peaks, and deep mountain culture. Most tourists visit the Himalayas on foot, but paragliding provides them with an entirely different view of the mountain range, an aerial point of view. Being on some silent flight over valleys, lakes, and snow-covered mountains is simultaneously very serene and exciting. There is nothing like adventure sports in Nepal, and paragliding is one such sport which allows a person to be in touch with the dramatic scenery and the beauty of nature in the country.

Why Paragliding in Nepal?

Geography and climate in Nepal make the country one of the best paragliding destinations in the world. The weather conditions and the presence of dependable thermals, along with the mountainous terrain, all make the mountain a great place to fly. What is even more particular about Nepal is the scenery, you do not slide down the hills, but on the lake, village, forest, and some of the highest mountains on the planet. Paragliding in this area is also not very expensive, well structured,d and one that first-time flyers can experience without complications and as such, it is ideal for both adventure lovers and other casual travelers.

Pokhara -Paragliding Capital of Nepal

Pokhara is the capital of paragliding in Nepal and one of the most beautiful cities in the country. The flights typically start at Sarangkot, a picturesque summit on the hilltop at approximately 1,600 meters. Here, the pilots and the passengers are able to take in the stunning visions of the Phewa Lake glistening below and the Annapurna dramatic range extends across the horizon. When it is not cloudy, the Machapuchare (Fishtail) can be seen dominating the skyline with its sharp sacred peak. The flight time ranges between 20 and 30 minutes in most cases, depending on the weather conditions and package chosen and in some of the extended flights, you are even free to spend even longer in the air.

Famous Paragliding Destinations in Nepal

Pokhara – Sarangkot

The best and highly developed paragliding area in Nepal is Sarangkot. It is used in tandem flights, for beginners and during the first time experience of paragliding. The runway is well-maintained and business-like and the landing space close to Phewa Lake is broad and secure. Due to the regular winds and breathtaking scenery, this place draws flyers around the globe.

Bandipur

Bandipur is a small hill top town that is situated between Kathmandu and Pokhara. Paragliding in this place is less crowded and quieter experience with paragliding than what Pokhara has to offer. Flights also offer good sightseeing of the forested hills, the traditional villages, and the Himalayan mountains in the distance. Bandipur is ideal for tourists looking forward to a scenic flight without the noise of the tourist centers.

Godavari (Kathmandu Valley)

Godavari is a new paragliding site in Kathmandu. It is an excellent alternative to the traveler who may have little time but still wishes to have an experience of paragliding without necessarily having to commute far out of the capital. The flights are accompanied by sceneries of green hills, farmlands and sections of the Kathmandu Valley, thus being a convenient and soothing adventure near the city.

Is Paragliding Safe in Nepal?

Yes, the paragliding experience in Nepal is usually quite safe when it is performed by licensed pilots. The pilots carry out flights and are trained and experienced pilots who meet the international safety standards. Tandem paragliding is particularly secure regarding new entrants, since all the technical issues of the flight are attended to by the pilot. The safety briefing of passengers prior to take-off and maintenance and checking of all equipment, is routinely performed. Once the due processes are followed, paragliding in Nepal is safe as well as enjoyable.

The most appropriate time to go paragliding in Nepal

September to April is the ideal season to use in paragliding in Nepal. In these months, the weather is generally fair, the sky is usually clear and the wind conditions are favorable in flying. Autumn presents visibility of mountains in crystal clear weather, whereas spring is quite warmer with a color palette landscape. Early morning flights are also in high demand due to the calm air and visibility is clear along with the soft light which makes the Himalayas look magical.

What to Expect on Your Flight

The first thing in yourwholesome experience of paragliding is a short drive to the take-off location, where your pilot provides you with a briefing on safety. With a few simple instructions, you will make a few steps forward and all at once, you are flying away. The emotion is fluid and soft, rather floating than falling. When you are gliding, you can have a rest, make shots and see panoramic views down. The landing is soft and gentle, normally in an open field or close to a lake.

Alternative Himalayas Adventure in Nepal

Trekking in the Himalayas

The most recognizable activity in Nepal is trekking. Regardless of whether you go on the world-famous Everest Base Camp Trek or the scenic Annapurna Circuit, you will explore the traditional villages, high alpine forests, and stunning passes. Treks are available in easy short hikes and other challenging, many-week-long journeys and suit every kind of adventurer.

White-Water Rafting/ Kayaking

The river systems in Nepal that are supplied by the melting snow create exciting white-water rafting and kayaking. Famous rafting rivers such as Trishuli, Bhote Koshi, and Seti give first-time rafters adrenaline-rushing quicksolutions as well as more advanced rafters. The majority of the excursions comprise equipment, guides, and scenic riverbank camping.

Jungle safari in Chitwan National Park

Have the wilderness of Nepal on a jungle safari in Chitwan. One can see one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tigers, elephants, deer, and various bird life. There are such safari options as jeep tours, riding on elephants, canoeing, and guided walks to the nature in the green forests and grasslands.

Mountain Flight Tour

In case you do not plan to trek, but wish to view the high peaks of Nepal, a mountain flight tour by Tribhuvan International Airport will provide an aerial spectacular view. You will be flying over the giants of the Himalayas, such as Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam, without stepping out of your seat.

Cultural and Heritage Tours

There is an abundance of ancient temples, palaces and holy places in Nepal. Visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Patan Durbar Square. Spiritual experience and great architecture. Visit holy temples such as Pashupatinath Temple and Swayambhunath Stupa.

Bungee Jumping

Nepal has one of the best bungee jumping sites in Asia, and this is the destination of adrenaline junkies. Locations such as The Last Resort across the Bhote Koski River offer heart stopping drops and memorable excitement in a deep ravine and mountainous terrain.

Ziplining & Canyon Swing

One of the longest and fastest zipline tracks in the world and canyon swings are located close to the bungee jumping sites. You can fly down open valleys or swing across deep river gorges in these activities, and it will provide the best experience to both thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts.

Mountain Biking Tours

Bike through the various sceneries of Nepal. Whether riding scenic rides around Nagarkot or valley trails located out of Kathmandu to downhill challenge rides in Pokhara, mountain biking is a great way to have fun, be fit and see the sites.

Freshwater Lakes Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

Yes, you can even dive in Nepal। Diving in freshwater such as Phewa Lake and Rupa Lake is increasingly becoming popular, with a very calm underwater experience with aquatic plants, fish, and water.

Helicopter Tours

Helicopter tours provide a luxury view of mountain sightseeing tours where you fly almost at the high Himalayan mountains with the spectacular views of Mount Everest. Other tours also have landings in high plateaus or viewpoints of glaciers, which is ideal for taking magnificent photographs and memories.

Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing

Day tours of the valley introduce you to the rich heritage of the valley with their visit to gardens and the peaceful towns, as well as pilgrimage sites. Among the attractions are the Boudhanath Stupa, one of the biggest stupas in the globe and Changu Narayan Temple, which is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Nepal.

Hot Air Balloon Ride

To have a cooler flight experience than that of paragliding, hot air balloon tours around Kathmandu Valley provide an uninterrupted view of the terraced fields, temples and the distant mountain range in serene silence- an ideal view for couples or travellers in search of a different angle without the adrenaline rush.

Cost and Booking details

The prices of paragliding in Nepal are determined by the package and the time of the flight. Transportation, safety equipment and insurance are used in most of the standard tandem flights. There are usually optional photo and video packages. In the high season, booking ahead is advisable, particularly in Pokhara, where flights may be full so as the demand is high.

Conclutions

Paragliding in Nepal is an adventure, a natural and free experience that one will not forget. Be it an adrenaline rush or you just like to witness the Himalayas in a different viewpoint, then this activity is something to be really special. Paragliding is a safe, scenic and easy way of exploring Nepal in a way not many people have ever explored before, that is, by air. This is not one of the adventures to miss in case you are visiting Nepal.

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