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The Best Pokhara Paragliding Tours [2023]

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Want to go paragliding in Pokhara? Let me help! I love adventure travel and pushing my comfort zone, and this was one of my favorite experiences I had while traveling in Nepal.

Imagine soaring like an eagle, high above the ground, with the majestic Himalayas as your backdrop. Sounds like a dream, right? This is Pokhara!

In a rush? This is the amazing company I went paragliding with!

I was never the type to jump off cliffs for fun. But during my yearlong journey backpacking around the globe, I discovered the transformative power of stepping out of my comfort zone. And what better way to celebrate that newfound confidence than by paragliding in Pokhara, Nepal?

Now, you might be thinking, “Paragliding? Isn’t that risky?” I get it. The idea of launching yourself off a mountain can be intimidating. But here’s the thing: Pokhara is one of the top five commercial tandem paragliding locations in the world.

Companies there have over 20 years of flying experience, and Pokhara boasts ideal flying conditions—think stable thermals and a large, safe lake below. Plus, it’s surprisingly affordable compared to other paragliding spots globally.

So, why settle for the usual trekking routes when Nepal has so much more to offer? Missing out on paragliding in Pokhara means missing out on a life-changing experience. One that not only gives you an adrenaline rush but also offers a unique perspective of Nepal’s stunning landscapes.

In this post, I’ll guide you through everything you need to know for an epic paragliding adventure in Nepal—from choosing the right location and company to ensuring your safety.

#1 POKHARA PARAGLIDING TOUR
lora and instructor Paragliding in Pokhara, Nepal.

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Paragliding in Pokhara

✅ Private paragliding experience in Pokhara

✅  Free photos and videos

✅ Hotel pickup and drop-off 

Paragliding in Pokhara with Fly Nirvana Paragliding

tandem paragliding over pokhara nepal

There are a few companies that offer paragliding in Pokhara. I didn’t feel that it was something I should base on price, so I decided to go with one of the most highly-rated companies, Fly Nirvana Paragliding.

The guys who run this business are top-notch and will make sure you have an incredible experience.

After being picked up at the hotel, we took a 20-minute jeep ride uphill to Sarangkot viewpoint, which is 2000ft above Lakeside.

The views are beautiful there. The crew will begin to set up all the equipment and provide you with a briefing on what to do. Don’t worry, because the pilots do all the work.

You just sit back, and they strap you into the equipment.

lora and paragliding instructor
Getting ready for take-off

In order to begin the flight, the pilot needs to catch the right wind. You will wait on the hill for a minute or so, and then the pilot will tell you to start running down.

I won’t lie—I was a bundle of nerves before taking that leap off the cliff. The idea of jumping into the unknown had my heart pounding. But my pilots were absolute pros. They sensed my anxiety and went out of their way to make me feel comfortable and secure.

The moment of truth came, and it was time to run off the cliff. Those two seconds felt like an eternity but were over before I knew it. The instant my feet left the ground, all my fears melted away.

Being airborne was nothing short of magical. Far from the nerve-wracking experience I had braced myself for, it was incredibly calming.

The views were surreal—I was flying next to eagles, with the Himalayas painting a breathtaking backdrop. I could see three of the highest mountains in the world—Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Manaslu, all towering over 8000m.

It was as if time stood still, and I was floating in my own tranquil world.

The adventure lasted for a solid 25 minutes, and every second was worth it. The flight concluded with a serene glide over a stunning lake, making for a picture-perfect ending to an already unforgettable experience.

paragliders over mountains in pokhara nepal
View while Paragliding

If you’re looking for an extra dose of thrill, many pilots offer the option to perform acrobatic maneuvers in the air at no additional cost. It’s called “acro,” and it’s basically like doing flips and spirals while you’re up in the sky.

However, I opted out of this add-on. Even though the regular flight was serene, it did give me a slight case of motion sickness. So, if you’re someone who’s prone to that, you might want to skip the acro.

But if you’re up for it and want to know what you’re in for, check out this video to get a taste of the acro experience.

One of the standout perks of flying with Fly Nirvana Paragliding is their knack for capturing epic shots. They offer photo and video services and know how to get the coolest angles. I brought my GoPro along, but honestly, their photos were better than mine.

If you decide to bring your own camera gear, know that it’s at your own risk. The company won’t cover any damage, so I wouldn’t bring anything too expensive.

Is paragliding in Pokhara safe?

tandem Paragliding over the Himalayas in Nepal

Paragliding in Pokhara is generally a safe activity. It’s probably safer than crossing the street at a busy intersection in town! There are more than 250 flights a day during peak season. In case of an accident, you have a reserve chute and a large lake for safety.

However, it is an extreme adventure sport, and risks are involved. The biggest risk is during take-off and landing if there is a sudden change in wind.

The event of this is highly unlikely, but to put your mind at ease, go with a company like NIrvana Fly Paragliding that has a proven track record and company insurance.

I can’t stress enough the importance of having personal travel insurance, especially if you plan to engage in adventure activities. The likelihood of something going wrong is small, but do you want to be stuck with that medical bill in a foreign country?

Put your mind at ease and get travel insurance before your trip. I use and love SafetyWing, which covers a range of adventure activities. I’ve used them for years and have only had great experiences even when making a claim.

Don’t forget health insurance – I use and love SafetyWing global health coverage to protect myself everywhere I go!

Best time to go Paragliding in Pokhara

two people tadem Paragliding in Pokhara

The peak season for paragliding aligns with Nepal’s general tourist season, which is from September to November and February to March. I went paragliding in Nepal in November, and the conditions were just perfect.

Fall months, especially September to November, are ideal because the thermals develop quickly, making for easier and longer flights.

If you’re an early bird, know that morning flights tend to be shorter because the thermals haven’t fully developed yet. However, they offer a calmer experience. By late morning, the thermals are in full swing, providing the best conditions for a longer flight and more value for your money.

About Pokhara

Lake in Pokhara
Walking by the lake in Pokhara, Nepal

Pokhara is a beautiful city in central Nepal. It’s the gateway to trekking in the Annapurna mountains but has a lot to offer itself.

Pokhara is what I wanted Kathmandu to be, a symbol for all the adventure that is Nepal. The city is set against Phewna Lake with the Himalaya mountain ranges in the background.

Getting to Pokhara

Pokhara has a small regional airport, so you can fly there from other airports in Nepal, but I found flights to be pricey. Instead, take the tourist bus, which is well-connected throughout Nepal.

If you fly internationally into Nepal, you will land in Kathmandu, the capital city. From there, you can get a bus to Pokhara, which takes 6-8 hours. The buses run every day in the morning between Pokhara and Kathmandu.

The road conditions are not great in Nepal, so expect to be on the longer end. You can also expect a bumpy ride, but the views on the way are incredible.

Things to do in Pokhara

While paragliding is undoubtedly a highlight, Pokhara has so much more to offer. This lakeside town is a dream for adventurers and peace-seekers alike. Here are some other activities you won’t want to miss:

Trek to the World Peace Pagoda

This trek offers a panoramic view of the Annapurna range and Phewa Lake. It’s a peaceful place that provides a different perspective of Pokhara.

Boating on Phewa Lake

Rent a paddleboat, canoe, or sailboat and spend a leisurely afternoon on the water. Don’t forget to visit Tal Barahi Temple, situated on an island in the lake.

Visit the International Mountain Museum

Learn about the history of mountaineering and the people who live in the Himalayas. It’s an educational experience that complements the outdoor adventures.

Indulge in Local Cuisine

From momos to dal bhat, Pokhara offers a range of delicious Nepali dishes. Treat your taste buds after a day of adventure.

Yoga and Meditation Retreats
If you’re looking to unwind, numerous centers offer yoga and meditation sessions that tap into the spiritual vibe of this Himalayan region.

lora and instructor Paragliding in Pokhara, Nepal.

FAQ: Paragliding Pokhara

What is the price of Paragliding in Pokhara?

The price of paragliding is 100-150 USD for a 25-minute flight.

Do you need experience to go paragliding?

No, you do not need experience. Tandem paragliding is designed for beginners, and the pilot takes care of all the technical aspects.

What to wear Paragliding in Pokhara?

For clothing, it’s advisable to wear long pants, closed-toe shoes, a long-sleeved shirt, and a windbreaker to stay comfortable. It’s chilly up there!

How long does a paragliding session last in Pokhara?

A standard paragliding flight in Pokhara will last about 25 minutes, giving you ample time to soak in the views.

Is paragliding a scary experience?

While the initial take-off can be a bit nerve-wracking, most people find the experience to be more relaxing and exhilarating once they’re in the air.

Is it possible to wear glasses while paragliding?

Yes, you can absolutely wear glasses during the flight, but it’s best to secure them to be safe. I wore my sunglasses.

Which location is most renowned for paragliding in Nepal?

Pokhara holds the title for being the most famous and sought-after location for paragliding in Nepal.

Can two people go paragliding together?

In tandem paragliding, two people can go up at the same time: one is the pilot and the other is the passenger.

Final thoughts: Pokhara Paragliding

Pokhara isn’t just one of the best paragliding destinations in Nepal; it’s a world-class location. With the Himalayas as your backdrop and the serene Phewa Lake below, the experience is nothing short of magical.

Choosing a reputable company like Fly Nirvana Paragliding isn’t just about ticking off an adventure on your bucket list; it’s about ensuring your experience is as stress-free and safe as possible.

They’ve got the expertise, the safety measures, and the customer testimonials to give you peace of mind.

It’s not just a flight; it’s a lifetime memory waiting to happen.

Traveling more of Nepal?

Nepal has many beautiful places to visit, and it’s an easy country to travel by following a few travel tips.

If you are done exploring the beautiful town of Pokhara or trekking, you can take a bus to the town of Chitwan to see the greater one-horned rhino in its natural habitat. Or explore the nearby mountains on the Ghandruk Trek.

Love adventure travel? Check out these experiences!

Author

  • Lora Pope

    Lora is a full-time digital nomad on a quest to visit every country in the world and pet as many dogs as she can along the way. Over the last 15 years, she has traveled to 70+ countries and six continents solo. She currently calls Puerto Vallarta, Mexico home and enjoys ending each day with sunset and tacos on the beach.

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