Paragliding in Pokhara is a premier adventure, offering stunning views of the Himalayas and Phewa Lake. The main launch site, Sarangkot, is situated at 1,600 meters and provides panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre. Flights typically last 20 to 30 minutes, allowing ample time to enjoy the scenery. Stable thermals and clear skies make Pokhara one of the best paragliding spots globally.
Safety is a priority, with experienced pilots and high-quality equipment ensuring a secure experience. From the air, you can see the lush Pokhara Valley and the serene Phewa Lake. This activity is suitable for both beginners and experienced paragliders. Additionally, paragliding flights often start in the morning or late afternoon to take advantage of the best weather conditions.
Book Thrillophilia’s Nepal travel packages, to enhance your visit and include paragliding. The opportunity to capture aerial photos and videos adds to the overall experience, allowing you to relive the adventure long after your flight.
Here are some of the best places to go for paragliding in Pokhara
1. Sarangkot: Sarangkot is located at an altitude of 1,600 meters, it provides panoramic views of the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre. The launch site is a 30-minute drive from Pokhara city centre. It is renowned for offering some of the best paragliding in Pokhara.
Here, paragliding flights are best in the early morning or late afternoon when the weather conditions are optimal. Besides paragliding, Sarangkot is also famous for its sunrise views to witness the first light hitting the Himalayan peaks. Additionally, Sarangkot offers views of Phewa Lake and the Pokhara Valley, making it a perfect spot for photography and relaxation.
Location: 6X74 + 7VM, Pokhara, Nepal
Timings: Everyday 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
2. Blue Sky Paragliding: Blue Sky Paragliding is a premier paragliding in Pokhara service provider. They launch flights from Sarangkot, a prime location at 1,600 meters altitude. This spot offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, and Phewa Lake. Flights last between 20 to 30 minutes. The optimal times for flying are early morning and late afternoon when weather conditions are most favourable.
Blue Sky Paragliding provides both tandem flights for beginners and cross-country flights for those seeking extended adventures. They prioritize safety with experienced pilots and well-maintained equipment. Additionally, they offer transportation to and from the launch site, ensuring convenience.
Location: Lakeside Road, Pokhara, Nepal
Timings: Everyday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
3. Sunrise Paragliding: Sunrise Paragliding is one of the pioneers of paragliding in Pokhara, established in 1996. They are renowned for their extensive experience and exceptional safety record. Sunrise Paragliding offers tandem flights, which include a professional pilot guiding you through the flight. Their rates are competitive, making it an affordable option for many.
They provide transportation to and from the launch site, located approximately 11 kilometres from Pokhara city centre. Additionally, Sunrise Paragliding offers training courses, including a beginner's course that spans three days and an advanced pilot course that lasts ten days.
Location: Baidam Road, Pokhara, Nepal
Timings: Everyday 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM
4. Frontiers Paragliding: Frontiers Paragliding, established in 1995, is among the oldest paragliding companies in Pokhara. They operate from Sarangkot and offer a variety of flight experiences. Unlike other providers, they offer acrobatic flights for those seeking an adrenaline rush.
Their paragliding in Pokhara cost is slightly higher, reflecting the unique experiences they offer. Frontiers Paragliding is known for their cross-country flights, which often exceed the standard 30-minute duration, providing a more extensive aerial tour of the Pokhara Valley. They emphasize safety with highly experienced pilots and stringent safety protocols.
Location: Lakeside, Pokhara, Nepal
Timings: Everyday 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM
5. Diki Danda: Diki Danda is a lesser-known but beautiful paragliding spot near Pokhara. Located slightly off the main tourist trail, it provides a peaceful and serene experience. The takeoff point at Diki Danda is lower than Sarangkot but still offers impressive views of the surrounding landscapes, including the Pokhara Valley and nearby hills.
Paragliding time in Pokhara is best in the early morning when the winds are calm. Diki Danda is ideal for those looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more tranquil paragliding adventure. The costs here are generally lower compared to the more popular spots, making it a budget-friendly option for paragliders.
Location: Pokhara, Nepal
6. Toripani: Toripani is another excellent location for paragliding in Pokhara. It is situated near the Pokhara Valley. This spot offers unique vantage points of the area's natural beauty, including lush green landscapes and terraced fields. Paragliding from Toripani provides a quieter experience compared to more popular sites like Sarangkot.
The area around Toripani is less commercialized, providing a more authentic and rustic experience. Additionally, Toripani is often less expensive than other popular paragliding locations, making it a budget-friendly option for adventure seekers.
Location: Pokhara, Nepal
7. Mandredhunga: Mandredhunga offers a unique and adventurous paragliding experience for more experienced flyers. Located approximately 18 kilometres from Pokhara, this site is known for its challenging takeoff and landing points. The elevation at Mandredhunga is around 1,500 meters, providing spectacular panoramic views of the Himalayan range and the rolling hills of Pokhara.
This location is favoured by thrill-seekers due to the complex manoeuvres required for takeoff and landing. The area around Mandredhunga is also great for hiking, with trails like the Mandredhunga to Lumle hike, which passes through dense forests and traditional villages.
Location: Lakeside, Pokhara, Nepal
Timings: Everyday 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
8. Galem: Galem is another excellent spot for experiencing the best paragliding in Pokhara. It is known for its scenic beauty and favourable flying conditions. Situated about 22 kilometres from Pokhara, Galem offers flights that showcase the area's natural splendour, including views of Phewa Lake and the surrounding mountains.
The takeoff point at Galem is at an altitude of 1,450 meters, providing clear and uninterrupted views of the landscape. This spot is ideal for both beginners and experienced paragliders, offering a balance of challenge and enjoyment. Additionally, Galem is known for its vibrant local culture, with nearby villages like Ghachok and Lahachok offering a glimpse into traditional Nepali life.
Location: Lakeside, Pokhara, Nepal
No, the cost for paragliding here ranges between INR 6,000 to INR 9,000. This paragliding in Pokhara price includes a 20 to 30-minute flight, transportation to Sarangkot, equipment, and pilot services. Some packages also offer photos and videos. It is considered an affordable adventure, offering stunning aerial views of the Himalayas and Phewa Lake. Advanced and cross-country flights are available at higher rates.
Yes, Paragliding in Pokhara is generally safe when done under experienced operators and favorable conditions. However, safety depends on weather conditions and adherence to guidelines. While accidents are rare, they have occurred, emphasizing the importance of choosing reputable operators and checking weather conditions before flying. By following safety instructions and opting for established companies, you can enjoy a thrilling and safe paragliding experience
The minimum age for paragliding in Pokhara is generally 10 years old. However, participants under 18 require parental consent. There is no upper age limit, but individuals should be in good health and able to follow the pilot’s instructions. Weight limits typically range from 25 kg to 90 kg to ensure safety and balance during the flight.
Now, as you prepare for paragliding, wear comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing. Long pants and a long-sleeved shirt protect against the wind. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are essential for takeoff and landing. Sunglasses help shield your eyes from the sun and wind. During cooler months, a light jacket or windbreaker is advisable.
No, paragliding in Pokhara is typically done solo with a tandem setup. This means one pilot and one passenger per paraglider. However, groups can book multiple tandem flights to fly simultaneously with individual pilots. This allows friends or family members to experience the adventure together while ensuring each flight is safe and well-managed.