Paragliding Information
Nepal is a relatively new country for paragliding, a relatively new type of adventure sport. Paragliding in this Himalayan country can be a wonderful and rewarding experience for those who like to try new things. Flying over villages, monasteries, temples, lakes, and jungles with a great view of the majestic Himalayas, you can share the airspace with Himalayan griffin vultures, eagles, and kites and see some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.
Gliding is a sport that needs good weather. In Nepal, the flying season runs from November to February. November and December are the best months. Nepal’s tree line is an amazing 3,900 m above sea level because of its latitude and monsoon climate. The weather is milder than in summer alpine, and the atmosphere is always good.
The topography and climate of Nepal also make it an ideal destination for all levels of pilots- subtropical conditions provide plenty of thermals, and combined with the long valleys common in Nepal, they produce perfect ‘cloud streets’ ideal for paragliders, inviting them to fly along this “sky highway”. The local microclimate, controlled by the numerous lakes in the valley, is unique, which makes it even better for the glider. The main area for flying in Nepal is the Annapurna region, specifically the Pokhara Valley. This lakeside town is Nepal’s second “city”, nestled at the foot of the Annapurna Himal, the views commanded from here, of 3 of the worlds 8000m peaks, are unsurpassed. At an altitude of 800m ASL, the subtropical climate means that year-round, it is short and T-shirt weather. The micro-climate of the valley makes it an ideal area for flying, with far more constant conditions than the Kathmandu valley 150 km east.
Several sites surround Phewa Tal (the lake), but the most accessible is Sarangkot (1500m ASL). A viewpoint 700m above Pokhara, it is unique because it has a road running to the top. A short walk brings you to the only purpose-built take-off in the country. Cut out of the slope is a 45m by 45m clearing. With regular cycles providing easy reverse launches, you could not ask for a more picturesque site. With the lake 2000 ft below, the mountains behind, and the unlimited potential for XC and out and returns, this has quickly become the main site for the area, and many pilots have based themselves in Pokhara for the season, flying from this mountain alone.
There are various deals for paragliding enthusiasts and those checking out this sport for the first time. There is a three-day introductory course for beginners and tandem flights (where you fly with an instructor) for the inexperienced or less brave. At 6000 ft, you sit back in your seat as your qualified pilot takes you on an unforgettable journey. The take-off point for these flights is Sarankot (1592 m), which offers prime views of Phewa Tal and the mountains at sunrise and sunset (provided the skies are clear); the landing is by the lake.
