Pokhara is one of the best known paragliding destinations in the world, helped by the combination of a high launch ridge, warm rising air and a wide, open landing zone beside the lake. Tandem flights launch from Sarangkot, where you clip into a harness in front of an experienced pilot and take a few running steps off the hillside. Once airborne you circle in the thermals above the valley, with Phewa Lake and the World Peace Pagoda below you and the white peaks of the Annapurna range filling the horizon. Flights are tandem, so no experience is needed, and the pilot handles the controls and the landing near the lakeshore. Many operators offer photos and video, and some also give you a short turn at steering. Flights depend on wind and cloud, so schedules change on the day.
Most companies pick you up from your hotel and drive you to the launch site, usually in the morning or midday when the air is rising and the views are best. The pilot gives a short briefing on the harness and the take-off run, and then you simply keep running until the glider lifts.
The flight lasts roughly half an hour depending on conditions, though thermals can stretch or shorten it. Landings are gentle and the transport brings you back to town. Photo and video options are worth considering, because it is hard to hold a camera while flying.
Safety deserves a moment of attention. Check that the operator is a registered Pokhara company, that gliders and harnesses are in good condition, and that pilots are certified and carry a reserve parachute. Ask about insurance and what happens if the flight is canceled for weather, since refunds and re-bookings differ. Be honest about your weight, health and fear of heights, and avoid a heavy meal beforehand. If you have a back injury, heart condition or are pregnant, skip it.
Autumn is the peak season. Between October and November the air is dry and stable and the peaks stand out clearly, though busy days can mean waiting for your turn at the launch. Take warm layers for the ridge, sunglasses and a hat, and plan flights for the morning if you also want a late afternoon on the lake. Because a bad weather day can cancel flights, build a spare day into your stay, and pair the flight with a sunrise at the same viewpoint.
What to expect
The experience
A hotel pick-up, a ride to the Sarangkot launch site, a short safety briefing and a tandem flight with a pilot, finishing with a lakeside landing and a ride back.
Best time
Morning or midday on a clear day in October or November, when the air is stable and the peaks are visible.
How long
Allow three to four hours in total, with roughly half an hour in the air.
Tips
Wear closed shoes and warm layers, tell the pilot about any health issue, consider the photo option and keep a spare day in case of weather.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travelers who want a headline adventure with a Himalayan view and no previous experience.
- Families
- There are minimum age and weight limits, so check with the operator before booking and expect teenagers rather than young children to qualify.
- Couples
- Book consecutive flights so you launch together, and plan a lakeside dinner to compare stories afterward.
- Pair with
- A sunrise at Sarangkot before the flight, or an ultralight flight on a second day.
- Time needed
- Plan three to four hours, plus a spare day in the schedule for weather.
Good questions
Do I need experience to paraglide in Pokhara?+
No, flights are tandem with an experienced pilot, who handles the launch, flight and landing. You only need to run a few steps at take-off.
How long is the flight?+
The flight usually lasts around half an hour depending on thermals and wind. The whole trip takes a few hours including transport.
What if the weather is bad?+
Flights are canceled when wind or cloud make them unsafe, and operators normally reschedule or refund according to their terms. Leave a spare day to be safe.
Is paragliding safe?+
Adventure sports carry real risk, so choose a registered operator with certified pilots, reserve parachutes and good equipment. Tell the pilot about any health condition.
Can I take photos during the flight?+
Many operators offer photo and video, taken by the pilot or a camera mount, which is easier than handling your own phone. Ask what is included when you book.
