One of the newest entries in the list of adventure sports in the state of Jammu and Kashmir is Paragliding. The natural factors like excellent wind condition and landscape of the Kashmir are remarkably suitable for this type of aero sport.

Jammu, Sanasar, Kud, Batote and Nathatop are the places in Jammu region best suitable for this adventure sport. Tourists can choose to glide over valleys, mountains or lakes. However, listen to the operators on what would be best on that particular day. Also wear the proper gear and attach the strings tightly to avoid any mishap.

One can choose to take glide in a Parachute with a pilot or can go solo over the valleys, lakes and mountains of these places. Paragliding in Sanasar can be experienced by taking short flight operating from Sanasar (take off) to Kud (Landing) for the duration of two to three minutes. One can even enjoy a high flying in Nathatop for 8 to 10 minutes at an altitude of 1500 to 2000 feet.

Equipments can be hired from tourist office Jammu or any private agencies. The best months to go for paragliding in Sanasar are May-June and September-October.

Paragliding Spots
One can choose to take glide in a Parachute with a pilot or can go solo over the valleys, lakes and mountains of these places. Paragliding in Sanasar can be experienced by taking short flight operating from Sanasar (take off) to Kud (Landing) for the duration of two to three minutes. One can even enjoy a high flying in Nathatop for 8 to 10 minutes at an altitude of 1500 to 2000 feet.

Other Popular Spots

  1. Ashtanmarg a small but beautiful hamlet lying just 15 km from Srinagar on the Nishat-Shalimar Road. However, the climbing spot is 1.5 km away that you have to cover on foot.
  2. Pahalgam At the altitude of 2,130 meters it has good sloppy hills loved by paragliding enthusiasts.
  3. Hajan Another beautiful spot identified by some operators which comes on the way to Chandanwari.
  4. Srinagar The lofty heights of Pari Mahal are ideal for paragliding activities. Observing the Mughal Gardens from a bird’s eye view is a mesmerising experience.
  5. Sonamarg If you took the 7-lake trek earlier then flying over and covering the same route in minutes is what this flying experience is all about. The breathtaking views of lakes Krishansar & Vishansar are simply outstanding.
  6. Gulmarg The altitude of 2,730 meters and then flying down sends chills down the spine. The all over beauty is so awesome; tourists often forget to take snapshots on their first glide.

There are many other spots in the entire valley as many operators have jumped in the fray.

Best Season for Paragliding
Clear skies work best for this sport and in general May to June and September to October are considered best for paragliding activities.

Reality Check
Vendors, without waiting for favorable weather conditions, flock hotels & guest houses and entice the tourists saying “once you reach the top, you will hardly need 10-15 minutes to come down”. Tourists too, are eager to make the most of their trip, succumb to their sales talk.

Tip
Cloudy conditions translate to “poor lighting” especially for photography. Unless you are a seasoned videographer, do not give in to vendors’ lure as all videos & stills will be hazy at best.

Paragliding Charges
The charges vary for duration of the flight and whether flying Solo or Tandem (with trained pilot). The range starts from Rs 4,500 onwards for Tandem for a flight of 8-10 minutes.

Tip
When booking always ask for the Licence and compare the photo with the pilot. You can save 15-20% money if you accede to their request of allowing an experienced but unlicensed pilot.

Precaution
Do not be a dumb traveller. Either ask the pilot or gather some info beforehand on landing. Experienced paratroopers opine that one needs to run as you land especially if surface winds are strong.

Tips

  1. State agencies sell tickets only for the recommended season.
  2. Private vendors are ready to fly anytime. They prefer cash payments. Internet seldom works at faraway places and hence the debit/credit card machines don’t work. Show some disinterest and start walking back when the vendor surrenders and accepts part cash.

Tickets from J&K Tourism
Tickets for paragliding from state registered vendors can be obtained from Tourist Reception Center, Srinagar and their branches.

Activities in Jammu & Kashmir

THINGS TO DO

When you do paragliding in Srinagar, you’ll have a breathtaking view of the valley and can take an incredible tour of it. To meet the needs of those who enjoy adventure sports, many adventure clubs have been established in Kashmir. These clubs offer training for beginners as well as the essential equipment. If visitors are serious about enjoying this sport, the best times to go are either May and June or September and October.

Thus, you must try this adventurous activity if you are on a tour to Kashmir, to have an unforgettable experience. We provide a variety of Kashmir Tour Packages and Kashmir Budget Tours. Come here to feel the excitement.