Are you considering going paragliding in Pokhara, Nepal? Great idea! Pokhara paragliding is one of the most fun things you can do in Nepal! Here you will learn everything you need to know to plan your adventure, such as where to go paragliding in Nepal, when to go paragliding in Pokhara, and how to book.
Nepal may be best known for its scenic trekking routes in the snow-capped Himalayas and the busy attractions in Kathmandu, but there is a lot more to do and see in Nepal.
When I was planning my trip to Nepal, I knew I wanted to tackle some of Nepal’s best adventure activities – such as paragliding, bungee jumping, ziplining, and more. But before my visit, I wasn’t quite sure what the cost of paragliding in Nepal would be, or really what to expect in general.
If you are an adventure traveler like me, and if you are wondering how and where to go paragliding in Nepal, then this guide is for you.
After a fun and successful trip to the adventure region in Nepal, I now have loads of insight on how to set it all up for smooth sailing. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about paragliding in Pokhara, Nepal.
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Everything You Need To Know About Paragliding in Pokhara, Nepal
Let’s tackle all things about Pokhara paragliding here. We’ll cover what paragliding is, how to book, what to wear, and more.
What is Paragliding?
Paragliding is an extreme aerial sport characterized by running off of cliffs or slopes with free parachutes attached to you. When the wind is right, you can catch the breeze and actually float and steer yourself around the sky.
Paragliding is relatively more accessible than skydiving since it does not require an airplane. It was founded in the 1980s, so it is a relatively young sport.
What is Tandem Paragliding
Tandem paragliding is when two riders fly on the same paragliding equipment, using the same parachute. Typically, a tandem group will include a knowledgeable guide and a lesser-experienced flyer – or even a first timer.
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Where to go Paragliding in Nepal
The absolute best area for paragliding in Nepal is the Pokhara valley, a beautiful lakeside town in Central Nepal.
Pokhara is located at the foot of the Annapurna mountain range, meaning that you will have some sweeping views as you glide through the air. This mountain range is home to three of the world’s 8000-metre peaks, so no matter where you fly, you will have a panoramic view.
Pokhara is the best place for paragliding because it has a consistently reliable climate for the sport. The geography of Pokhara and the climate in Nepal‘s central region provide great conditions.
Pokhara is renowned in the paragliding world, known for hosting an annual professional competition in the sport. Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced pilot, you can find various paragliding options in the Pokhara Valley, including advanced courses and tandem flights.
How to Get to Pokhara, Nepal
So, how can you get to Pokhara for paragliding?
Most travelers will initially land in Kathmandu first thing. After exploring all of the best things to do in Kathmandu, you’ll need to travel to Nepal’s Pokhara Valley.
Luckily, you have several options on how to get there, and with various budgets in mind. The top options on how to get to Pokhara are by plane, by car, or by bus. More on each below.
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Travel to Pokhara by plane
The quickest way to get to Pokhara from Kathmandu is via an airplane.
Pokhara has a small regional airport that services Kathmandu and other airports across Nepal. The most common airlines to fly the KTM-PKR route include Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines, and Simrik Air.
No matter who you book, the flight takes approximately 30 minutes and can typically be booked online even at the last minute. However, know that last minute flights may cost more.
Travel to Pokhara by car
You can also travel to Pokhara independently by car. You should know though that many roads in Nepal are not paved and are rather bumpy and dusty. Additionally, driving in Kathmandu is crazy.
Therefore, it is best for tourists to hire a private driver to take them from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The drive will be roughly five to seven hours in total, depending on the time of day and the current road conditions. But, you’ll have much more comfortable seats than on a bus and less hassle than travel by air.
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Note that if you do choose to rent a car in Nepal, I always get the best prices here!
Travel to Pokhara by bus
The third option is to travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara by using the buses in Nepal.
Nepal has a pretty extensive bus system that can reliably get you from point a to point b. Let me warn you in advance, the tourist buses are not typically in great condition. However, they will get you where you need to go.
Check the current bus schedules and prices here.
Best time to go Paragliding in Pokhara
Next we need to talk about the best time to go paragliding in Pokhara, Nepal.
Since paragliding is a weather-dependent sport, you will not be able to fly if conditions aren’t safe. For example, it’s not safe to paraglide when there are storms, strong winds, lightning, or rain.
Let’s break down the best time for paragliding in Pokhara in terms of both months and times of day.
The best months for paragliding in Pokhara, Nepal
I previously mentioned that Pokhara is the best location for paragliding in Nepal due to the consistently ideal conditions.
This is true for most months out of the year, with the exception of July and August. These months bring on Nepal’s monsoon season and conditions will sometimes be too rainy, windy, and stormy.
Some days in July and August will be okay, and others will not, but there is no way to predict which in advance. Paragliding during these months is a gamble.
The paragliding season in Nepal begins in September and lasts until early June, generally. I went during the month of May and it was picture perfect. Additionally, November and December are known to be great times for paragliding in Pokhara.
Pro Tip: The busiest months for paragliding in Pokhara are September through December and February through May.
The best time of day for paragliding in Pokhara, Nepal
Typically, paragliding flights will depart several times per day, at 10am, 12pm, and 2pm. This is true of paragliding in Pokhara’s Sarangkot region.
I took the 12pm paragliding slot, and for the most part that worked well. If I were to do it again, I would choose the exact same slot. Here is why.
The sun needs to be out long enough to heat the earth and create the thermals necessary for liftoff from the cliff. In the early morning, the thermals haven’t yet developed.
By late morning, though, the thermals will be “ready” for flight. Think of it this way – from late morning onward, you will be in the air longer. Early morning would be a much shorter flight.
However, if you want a more short and smooth flight, an earlier session would be ideal. More often than not, this will be a smoother timeframe, although that can’t be fully guaranteed.
One thing to note.
Once you arrive to the hillside, you will likely have to wait around a bit. The pilot has to take care of several things, like laying out the parachute, giving you a safety recap, and waiting for a clear run. You don’t have much to do but put your gear on and stand around watching.
Pro Tip: The midday slots can get quite hot and you will be standing in direct sunlight. Be sure to carry sunglasses, sunscreen, and a lightweight long sleeve jacket. More on what to pack below.
How Safe is Paragliding in Pokhara?
It is completely normal to wonder about safety when planning to paraglide in Pokhara, Nepal! You are embarking on an extreme sport, after all.
So, how safe is paragliding in Pokhara?
It is generally safe, but it is not 100% safe. No extreme sport is, and yes, there have been accidents in Pokhara and beyond.
While I was there, the only “accidents” I saw were people who didn’t run correctly or listen to their pilot on when to lift their legs. I saw several knee and shin-drags across the grass, which can hinder take-off.
However, I did not witness any serious accidents, and during my time in Pokhara I witnessed a lot of flights and take-offs.
Pro Tip: When planning for any extreme sports while traveling, you absolutely need to consider getting travel insurance. While you will hopefully not need it, having it will give you peace of mind in case of any mishap. GET A TRAVEL INSURANCE QUOTE HERE.
Regarding the accidents I touched on above, it is worth noting that these are typically solo pilots and not tandem groups. Solo pilots are trainees who are collecting flight hours in order to become a tandem-flight pilot.
Tandem pilots have to undergo a rigorous training to get their paragliding license. This means that your pilot will have experienced flying solo for more than a thousand hours over a period of 18 months, as well as rigorous health check-ups and first-aid training.
Rest assured, your tandem pilot is well-versed in the sport!
Furthermore, the Nepal Airsports Association has implemented several rules to make paragliding safer:
- Paragliding pilots may only fly one shift per day.
- Solo pilots and tandem flyers will depart from separate hillsides. Before, all pilots would all fly from the same spot in Sarangkot. Now solo pilots take off from another area, meaning that Sarangkot is much less crowded overall.
- Each company is allotted a certain timeframe to avoid overcrowding.
Since the implementation of these rules, there have reportedly been no new accidents.
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Do You Need Experience To Go Paragliding in Nepal?
No, you do not need experience to go paragliding in Nepal. However, all first-timers and inexperienced riders will need to fly tandem with a well-trained pilot. Solo flying is not allowed without a paragliding license.
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How Much Does Paragliding in Nepal Cost?
Like most activities and tours in Nepal, there is always a wide range of prices depending on the company and specific services. Here is a general guideline on what to expect as far as pricing.
Tandem Paragliding
Tandem flights typically cost between NPR 10,000 (USD 75) to NPR 16,000 (USD 120) for a 30-minute flight. The variation can be due to whether or not transportation, photos, or video is included.
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In my experience, paragliding bookings generally included transportation to and from your hotel, but oftentimes photography and videography services were an additional charge – roughly NPR 2,000 (USD 15) or so.
Solo Paragliding
Remember, solo paragliding is only available for licensed paragliding pilots.
If you are qualified, you’ll need to obtain clearance from Pokhara’s aviation office independently. Solo flights will cost a minimum of NPR 8,000 (USD 70) but in reality will likely have extra fees.
Paragliding Course
For anyone interested in becoming a licensed paragliding pilot, you actually can do that in Pokhara!
Several paragliding schools can be found in Pokhara. Courses typically consist of three different sections and skill levels that build on each other: beginner, progression, and thermaling.
Each course takes about 5 days to complete, meaning that it will take 15 days to do the full course. Budget a minimum of NPR 230,000 (USD 2,000) for the course and expect an international license upon completion. More info here.
How to Book a Paragliding Flight in Nepal
Your Pokhara paragliding adventure starts here!
I recommend that all travelers book their paragliding adventure in advance. This is because it can sell out during the busiest days and busiest months.
So if this is a non-negotiable Pokhara experience, book in advance.
You basically have two options if you want to pre-book. You can either book your Pokhara paragliding trip as part of a larger tour throughout Nepal, or as a short day trip from the Pokhara Valley.
These are the top tours to book for paragliding.
1. A Tandem Paragliding Day Trip from Pokhara
If you are already going to be in Pokhara and are just looking for a day trip, I highly recommend this Pokhara paragliding day tour.
Not only will you view spectacular mountains and tiny villages below you, but you are also flying with some of the most experienced pilots.
This tour includes transportation to and from your hotel, too. They operate between 9am-2pm, but remember – don’t take the earliest slot unless you want a shorter ride!
BOOK YOUR TANDEM PARAGLIDING DAY TRIP HERE!
2. A 10-Day Adventure Tour through Nepal
If you want the full package, meaning ALL THE ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES that Nepal has to offer, then this 10 day adventure tour is for you!
It follows my exact route throughout Nepal and I can’t recommend it enough. Bungee jumping, paragliding, white water rafting, and more are all included.
And, you will see not only Pokhara, but also Kathmandu, Chitwan National Park, and the Trishuli River as well. It honestly can’t be beat.
If I were to do it all over again, this is the exact tour I’d take, even for a second time around.
BOOK YOUR 10 DAY ADVENTURE TOUR HERE!
What to Wear for Paragliding in Nepal
Believe it or not, I actually have a fairly specific list of what I would recommend to wear for paragliding in Nepal. Most of it you will find on my Nepal packing list for women.
The last thing you need is for your clothes to hold you back! Here is what to wear.
Thick Leggings
I highly recommend form fitting thick comfy leggings, for paragliding as opposed to loose or baggy pants. They make it much easier to run before takeoff during paragliding and ensure that loose fabric is not getting caught on any gear or equipment connected to you. Don’t skip them. Get yours here!
Lightweight Tanks
A lightweight tank is the perfect choice for hot weather months. Just remember to pair it with the super light long sleeve layer below. Pack any that you have on hand, or if you are looking for an update then Get yours here!
Basic T-Shirts
And, of course basic tees are excellent for covering your shoulders on sunnier days. Definitely pack a couple for Nepal. Get yours here!
33,000ft Packable Rain Jacket
This lightweight packable rain jacket is great for chilly mornings in the sky. It can also cover your shoulders from the sun as you float underneath it. Bonus, it folds up into a tiny softball sized pouch for easy stashing, too! Get yours here!
Sunglasses
I forgot to grab my sunglasses from my hotel and boy did I regret it! The sun can shine strong in Nepal, especially in spring and summer. When you’re in the sky it is even more intense. I love these ones in particular lately. Get yours here!
Rugged Trekking Sandals
I wore these Keen trekking sandals when I went paragliding in Pokhara, Nepal. They let my feet breathe but have a tight fit so I know they never fall off. They came with me to Nepal just as they have across countless other countries. Get yours here!
KEEN Women’s Mid Waterproof Boots
Alternately, these mid-height KEEN Waterproof Boots are another excellent choice if you prefer tennis shoes. They are great if you need to pack for trekking in Nepal, too. Get your boots here!
What to Expect When Paragliding in Pokhara, Nepal
Your day will start with a hotel pickup, in most cases. And, your transportation will be with a small group of strangers, picked up from around the city, unless you have a large group.
I spent part of my time solo traveling in Nepal and part with one other person, and we boarded a shuttle with just a few other people going for paragliding. Note that there were other companies out there as well, so we did not have the mountain to ourselves my any means.
After a drive to your paragliding spot (mine took roughly one hour) you will get out, leaving all loose items behind. Backpacks, sunscreens, cameras, and purses need to be left in the vehicle. They do not let you fly with loose items, in case of dropping them from the sky!
Next, you will climb a hill where others will probably already be setting up if not flying. At my noontime slot, the hill was flooded with colorful parachutes ranging from bright golds or reds to multi-colored rainbows.
This is where you will get your first glimpse of Pokhara paragliding, watching as pilots and riders run to the edge and take off!
Listen closely to your instructor as they direct you on how to take off, what you do in the air, and how to land. Taking off is the “hardest” part. In the sky, you simply sit, and when you land it is much easier than you would think.
When it was my turn, I’m happy to say that I ran and lifted-off perfectly, thanks to my pilot’s explanation. We ran to the edge and the lifted off, somehow soaring up high into the sky!
It was almost like magic.
It’s difficult to understand how the pilots not only glide downward to land at the valley below, but how they actually gain height and maintain height for 20-30 minutes of flying. The pilot maneuvers the chute via two plastic handles attached to the parachute.
There you are, twisting and turning and circling in the air, the houses and people so incredibly tiny down below! It’s quite incredible how high you fly.
The time goes quickly. Once it’s time to descend, the pilot will begin lowering down to the landing point. And, as mentioned, your job is easy. The pilot touches down first and your feet will hit ground more solid than you’d guess.
And then, it is over. But it will probably leave you wanting to paraglide in Pokhara or beyond again!
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Where to Stay in Pokhara, Nepal
Even if you only come to Pokhara for paragliding, you are going to want to spend at least one night here before or after your flight.
I stayed multiple days here personally, as I was also planning to go bungee jumping in Nepal and take part in other Pokhara adventure activities. Also note that are quite a few things to do around Pokhara, too.
Luckily, Pokhara has accommodation prices for every budget. Here are my top three recommendations for lodging, from budget to mid-range to luxury.
1. Budget
Budget travelers will be amazed at how affordable Pokhara can be! The New Tourist Guest House is a budget, no frills option that still offers clean and basic rooms.
The best part – you can get a private room for the price of a dorm bed elsewhere! And, the location is top notch, within walking distance of Phewa Lake and many of the shops and restaurants in Pokhara.
The New Tourist Guest House also has free wifi, parking, and an on site restaurant.
BOOK THE NEW TOURIST GUEST HOUSE NOW!
2. Mid-range
The Silver Oaks Inn is a cute hotel tucked behind greenery. It offers all the necessities and adds just a little bit of frill.
Known for its excellent location, just one mile from the bus stand and two miles from the Pokhara Airport, you can get around easy from here.
You’ll get a tour desk, business center, and outdoor seating area to boot. If affordable comfort is your thing, check out Silver Oaks Inn.
3. Luxury
Nepal is a very affordable country overall, and that means that you can get luxury accommodations for a still-reasonable price! Much cheaper than in the USA, at least.
My luxury recommendation for Pokhara is the gorgeous The Pavilions Himalayas retreat. Here you will have a beautiful, tranquil setting, surrounded by nature. An infinity pool greets you on the sun deck outside.
The clean modern rooms are pure luxury. Enjoy breakfast, a fitness room, and optional yoga classes on site. The Pavilions Himalayas can’t be beat.
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FAQs on Paragliding in Pokhara
If you have any lingering questions on paragliding in Pokhara, Nepal, hopefully these FAQ’s will address them!
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Can you take photos during the flight?
While all of the paragliding companies that I talked to don’t allow you to bring your own cameras, they do however offer a photo and video option as you fly.
The pilot can carry a GoPro on a selfie stick which is used to get photo and video of you and the pilot soaring about. My pilot also let me shoot some of them, which I would imagine is pretty standard.
The photo add-ons are cheap enough that you should do it, particularly if it is your first time paragliding. The pictures make for some good memories!
What is the paragliding in Pokhara price to expect?
Paragliding in Pokhara will generally cost between 10,000 – 16,000 NPR or $75 – $120 USD. The price can vary though depending on your package inclusions, like transportation and photography.
Is it safe to paraglide in Nepal?
While no extreme sport can ever be guaranteed as 100% safe, paragliding in Nepal has a great track record of very few accidents. Each pilot undergoes 1000 hours of flight training and solo paragliding before receiving a license or being allowed to take a passenger.
However, you should always consider travel insurance when taking part in adventure activities like this. Get a quote here.
How scary is paragliding?
My personal opinion is, paragliding was not exceptionally scary. You might get chills when you imagine the wind catching the parachute wrong or daydream about how far away the ground is. Yikes. But try to enjoy the freeing feeling as you glide through the air rather than letting your fears take over.
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Is there an age limit for Pokhara paragliding?
Most companies will require that children be at least five years old. There is no age cap for adults, provided they are reasonably fit enough to run for the takeoff and withstand the flights and landing.
What are the requirements for paragliding in Pokhara, Nepal?
For passengers, a reasonable expectation of fitness is required, meaning that riders be able to run for takeoff and withstand the flight and landing. For pilots, an international license is required.
Additionally, the maximum weight limit is typically 100 kilograms. Check with the tour operator if you have further questions.
Is paragliding suitable for anyone?
As a passenger, paragliding is not a physically demanding activity. As long as you’re in reasonably good health, you’re fit to fly.
However, there are some people who should skip paragliding in Pokhara. These people include: pregnant women, or those with asthma, epilepsy, osteoporosis, or heart disease.
Additionally, if you have extreme fear of heights, paragliding might not be the place to test it if you think you might panic.
Additionally, if you suffer from high blood pressure, diabetes, or any other chronic condition, it is best to get your doctor’s advice before paragliding.
Note that the maximum weight limit is typically 100 kilograms.
How long is paragliding in Pokhara?
A paragliding experience in Pokhara will generally last between 25-30 minutes. Most companies guarantee at least 15 minutes but likely you will get a full 30, as long as weather conditions allow.
Is paragliding closed in Pokhara?
Paragliding is currently open in Pokhara! Note that many flights are canceled in July and August due to the monsoon season, but all other months offer consistent flights.
Which month is good for paragliding?
Spring and fall are excellent months for paragliding in Pokhara, Nepal. The only unfavorable months for Pokhara paragliding are within the monsoon season, particularly in July and August.
Is it safe to paraglide in Pokhara?
While there is risk in any extreme sport like paragliding, rest assured that all pilots in Pokhara have undergone a rigorous training to get their license.
How safe is paragliding in Nepal?
No adventure sport has a 100% safety guarantee, but paragliding in Nepal is generally safe. Pilots in Nepal have earned an international pilots license after 1000 hours of solo flying before being allowed to carry passengers in tandem. Note that around 250 flights safely take off during the busiest days.
How many days are enough for Pokhara?
If you plan to book several activities after, like paragliding and ziplining and bungee jumping, and plan to see all of Pokhara’s places to visit, you will want at least three days here. If you want a slower, more relaxed time, I would recommend around five days minimum.
Which country is best for paragliding?
While many countries are great for paragliding, Nepal is one of the best. The geography and the weather patterns make Nepal one of the consistently best places to go paragliding, particularly in the Pokhara Valley.
Nepal Quick Links
- Best Kathmandu Hotel: The Kumari Boutique Hotel in Thamel.
- Best Kathmandu Tour: Book the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu to see many of the top-rated sights around the city!
- Best Nepal Tour: If you want to see it all, this 10-day Adventure Tour visits three of my favorite areas in Nepal: Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan.
- Book your transfer from Kathmandu’s international airport before you travel!
- Book a Rental Car in Kathmandu if you have more time to explore Nepal.
- 5 Nepal Travel Essentials: a lightweight scarf; a wide brim hat; a reusable water bottle; a plug converter; a pair of loose palazzo pants.
Where to go after Pokhara
Pokhara’s adventure activities were easily one of the highlights of my entire trip to Nepal. Paragliding, bungee jumping, ziplining, and doing the Ultralight flight were some of my most memorable moments!
Beyond that, if the Nepal seasons agree with you, definitely check out Chitwan National Park. A Chitwan jungle safari will show off some of the regions best nature, like the impressive one-horned rhino, elephants, and gharial crocodiles.
And of course, explore the sights in Kathmandu to get a deeper cultural understanding of this incredible country.
Lastly, be sure to pack correctly, whether you need a women’s packing list for Nepal or a complete Nepal trekking packing list. In some areas of Nepal, it can be hard to replace any items you might forget.
Final Thoughts on Paragliding in Pokhara, Nepal
Chances are, if you are reading this article, you are already interesting in going paragliding in Pokhara, Nepal.
If that is the case, I urge you to try it! You will be so impressed by the views and the weightless feeling you have soaring through the sky.
Paragliding in Nepal was one of the best things I experienced here and I could not recommend it more. If you would like to go paragliding on a multi-day adventure tour, copy my exact route on this 10 day Nepal adventure tour.
Enjoy!
Need More Nepal Travel Inspiration? Check Out These Resources.
- Is Nepal Safe for Solo Female Travel?
- What To Wear in Nepal for Women
- 17 Best Places To Visit in Kathmandu, Nepal
- A Chitwan Jungle Safari Travel Guide & Review
- A Complete Nepal Trekking Packing List
- 11 Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Nepal
- Paragliding in Pokhara – A Can’t Miss Adventure
- Seasons in Nepal & the Best Time to Visit
- Is Nepal Worth Visiting? 10 Reasons To Go
- A Nepal Travel Guide
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