Learn To Hug The Clouds

Ever wondered what it would be like to soar the skies like a bird Growing up, I always sought to take to the skies and feel something close to a bird's flight. While this may have just been a dream not so long ago, it is now a possibility all over India. Paragliding, in India, was first introduced in the 1990s but has only recently seen an increase in popularity. With ambitions to conquer the vast skies, numerous have taken to the adventure sport and felt the unimaginable rush of adrenaline as the unending expanse of nature underneath passes past you. So, for the adventure seekers in you here is a list of destinations in India where you can go paragliding. 

Bir Billing, Himachal Pradesh

Nestled in the Kangra Valley, Bir Billing is famed for hosting the first ever paragliding world cup. The paragliding capital of India in addition with the gorgeous mountainous backdrop and the perfect weather make it a delight for adventure junkies. With one of the best take offs and landing sites in the country, Bir Billing is another off-beat destination you can visit list if you are coming to Dharamshala or Manali.

Best time March to June

Operators Travel Bir Billing, HP Paragliding 

Price&nbsp2500 onwards

Panchgani, Maharashtra

Paragliding in Panchgani is a surreal experience. The breathtaking view from the Horizon point of this quaint town makes it unforgettable. Pleasant winds and clear skies makes this Maharashtrian hill station a perfect location for the adventure sport. The lush green forests beneath adds to the serenity of the overall scenery. 

Best time November-February

Operators Ravine Hotel

Price 1500 onwards

Gangtok, Sikkim 

Neighboring the intimidating Himalayan ranges, Sikkim is the land of the unexplored. Rapidly growing into a popular paragliding destination, Gangtok's unusually hilly landscape provides for a mesmerizing watch. The Kangchenjunga, which happens to be the third highest peak in the world, offers a glamorous site as you soar among the clouds. 

Best time March to July

Operators Fly Sikkim

Price 1800 onwards

Shillong, Meghalaya

The Scotland of the East has to make it to our list of must visit paragliding destinations. Shillong's scintillating greenery with its hilly surroundings make paragliding a fruitful experience. The North East city has seen a major rise in tourists in over the past few years with the adventure sport seeing participation increase at an incredible pace.

Best time March-July

Operators Yatra

Price 2000 onwards

Nainital, Uttarakhand

Located on the foothills of the Himalayas, Nainital continues to charm visitors day in and day out. A bird eye's view of the city presents itself to the paraglider as he soars through the mystique blue skies of this hill station. Observe the glittering Naini Lake beneath, one of the 64 Shakti peeths in the country, and the domineering mountains of the Deopatha and Ayarpatha hills. 

Best time Around the year except monsoons (July-August)

Operators Skybird Adventures

Price 1500 onwards

Arambol, Goa

Known for its elegant waves and its distinct Bohemian feels, Goa's Arambol Beach is a location apart from the rest in this list. The launching point, located near Kalacha Lake, give an insight into the almost unreal beauty of the Arambol Beach. Perfect for beginners, the smooth and calm breeze ease out any inch of nervous energy inside of you.

Best time October to June

Operators Goa Extreme

Price 2000 onwards