If you’ve ever dreamed of flying like a bird, paragliding offers the next best thing. With its mix of adrenaline, adventure, and panoramic views, paragliding has gained immense popularity in India. Thanks to the country’s diverse topography—from the snow-covered Himalayas to coastal cliffs—India is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking paragliding spots.

Here’s a detailed guide to the best places to go paragliding in India, including what makes each location special, the ideal season, and tips for making the most of your adventure.

1. Bir Billing, Himachal Pradesh – Paragliding Capital of India

Altitude: ~2400 meters
Best time to visit: March to May and October to November

Bir Billing is undoubtedly India’s most famous paragliding destination—and with good reason. It hosted the Paragliding World Cup in 2015, placing it on the global adventure map. Billing serves as the take-off site while Bir, about 14 km away, is the landing spot.

Flying over the lush green hills, pine forests, and picturesque valleys of Himachal while catching glimpses of the Dhauladhar Range makes the experience unforgettable.

Highlights:

• World-class thermals and takeoff points
• Professional training and tandem flights available
• Ideal for both beginners and pros

2. Manali, Himachal Pradesh – Adventure Hub of North India

Altitude: ~2050 meters
Best time to visit: April to June, September to October

While Manali is popular for trekking, skiing, and rafting, it’s also a solid destination for paragliding. Solang Valley, just 14 km from Manali, is the prime spot for this activity. Surrounded by snow-covered peaks, alpine meadows, and tall deodars, the flight offers mesmerizing Himalayan views.

Highlights:

• Short, medium, and long flight options
• Great add-on to a Manali adventure itinerary
• Easy access and scenic roads

Reference- Best Places to Visit in Manali

3. Kamshet, Maharashtra – Gateway for Paragliding in the Western Ghats

Altitude: ~2200 feet
Best time to visit: October to May

Located near Lonavala and just a couple of hours from Pune and Mumbai, Kamshet is the most popular paragliding site in Western India. The Sahyadri Hills provide perfect conditions for smooth gliding, and this is one of the best places to learn paragliding from certified schools.

Highlights:

• Ideal for weekend getaways from Mumbai and Pune
• Best training schools for beginners
• Gentle winds and smooth thermals

4. Nainital, Uttarakhand – Fly Over Lakes and Hills

Altitude: ~2000 meters
Best time to visit: March to June, September to October

Paragliding in Nainital offers the rare combination of lakeside views and mountain backdrops. The main paragliding point is Naukuchiatal, located just outside Nainital. Soaring over emerald lakes and forested hills makes for a calming yet exhilarating experience.

Highlights:

• Bird’s-eye view of lakes like Nainital and Bhimtal
• Milder weather and less-crowded environment
• Suitable for family trips

Reference- Best Places to visit in Nainital

5. Ranikhet, Uttarakhand – Serene Heights of the Kumaon Region

Altitude: ~1869 meters
Best time to visit: March to June and September to October

Less commercial than Nainital but just as picturesque, Ranikhet offers an offbeat paragliding experience. The open skies and rolling meadows of the Kumaon region make it perfect for peaceful glides with minimal tourist interference.

Highlights:

• Calm, uncrowded skies
• Panoramic Himalayan views
• Great for slow-paced adventure travelers

6. Panchgani, Maharashtra – Fly Over Table Land and Strawberry Farms

Altitude: ~1334 meters
Best time to visit: December to February

Panchgani, known for its colonial charm and scenic valleys, also offers superb paragliding experiences. Launch off from the famous Table Land, one of Asia’s largest mountain-top plateaus. This is a great location for beginners and those looking for short tandem rides.

Highlights:

• Unique topography
• Close to Mahabaleshwar and Pune
• Stunning aerial view of strawberry farms and Krishna River

7. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand – Queen of Hills from the Sky

Altitude: ~2000 meters
Best time to visit: March to June, September to October

Mussoorie offers an impressive mix of high-altitude launches and sweeping views of the Shivalik ranges. The paragliding sites are generally located on the outskirts, where you’ll glide over green valleys and old colonial architecture.

Highlights:

• Soar over misty hills and pine forests
• Less commercial than Bir or Manali
• Good wind conditions for mid-range flights

Reference- Best Places to visit in Mussoorie

8. Shillong, Meghalaya – Northeast’s Hidden Flying Gem

Altitude: ~1496 meters
Best time to visit: October to April

Shillong and its surrounding hills in Meghalaya are gaining popularity for paragliding, especially among offbeat adventurers. The panoramic views of waterfalls, dense forests, and tribal hamlets create a surreal flying experience.

Highlights:

• Unique culture and landscape
• Less crowded and unexplored
• Combine with other adventure activities like caving or river canyoning

9. Vagamon, Kerala – South India’s Secret Paragliding Spot

Altitude: ~1100 meters
Best time to visit: September to March

Vagamon in Kerala’s Idukki district offers a mix of pine forests, tea gardens, and meadows, all of which look even better from the sky. The wind conditions here are generally smooth, making it suitable for beginners and tandem flyers.

Highlights:

• Lush green rolling hills
• Southern India’s top paragliding destination
• Often hosts paragliding festivals and events

10. Arambol, Goa – Fly by the Sea

Altitude: ~30–50 meters (hill launches)
Best time to visit: October to February

While Goa is known for beaches and nightlife, Arambol beach is also a popular place for paragliding. Launch from the cliffs and glide along the coastline, with views of the Arabian Sea, palm trees, and beach shacks.

Highlights:

• Unique coastal paragliding
• Sunset flights are magical
• Great mix of fun, beach life, and adventure

Tips for Paragliding in India

1. Go with certified operators: Ensure the company is licensed and uses experienced pilots with proper safety gear.
2. Best seasons: Avoid monsoon months (June to September) as most flying sites shut down due to weather risks.
3. Wear appropriate clothing: Light jacket, sports shoes, and sunglasses.
4. Listen to your instructor: Especially during tandem flights.
5. Check insurance coverage: Especially for high-altitude flights or long durations.

Final Thoughts

Paragliding in India offers something for every adventure enthusiast—whether you’re gliding past Himalayan peaks in Bir, skimming across the Western Ghats in Kamshet, or flying over beach cliffs in Goa. With more infrastructure, certified schools, and growing safety standards, India is steadily becoming one of Asia’s prime destinations for aerial sports.So gear up, pick a destination, and prepare to see India from a whole new angle—from the sky.