Paragliding in Pokhara: The Ultimate Post-Trek Adventure in Nepal

There is a reason Pokhara is considered one of the top paragliding destinations in the world. Imagine launching from a hillside at 1,592 meters, soaring above the shimmering waters of Phewa Lake, and gazing across at the entire Annapurna range stretching from Dhaulagiri to Manaslu while the fish-tailed summit of Machhapuchhre dominates the horizon. For trekkers finishing an Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Poon Hill Trek, or Annapurna Circuit, paragliding in Pokhara is the single best way to celebrate the end of an incredible journey through the Himalayas.

Unlike many adventure activities that require extensive training or prior experience, tandem paragliding in Pokhara is accessible to virtually anyone. You fly with a licensed pilot who handles all the technical aspects while you simply enjoy the ride, take photos, and soak in views that rival anything you saw on the trail. The combination of favorable thermal conditions, stunning mountain scenery, and a large landing zone beside Phewa Lake makes Pokhara's paragliding scene remarkably safe and spectacularly beautiful.

This guide covers everything you need to know about paragliding in Pokhara: what to expect during your flight, the different flight options available, current pricing, the best time of year to fly, how to choose a reputable operator, safety considerations, and practical tips for fitting paragliding into your trek schedule.

Why Pokhara is a World-Class Paragliding Destination

Pokhara is not just a convenient place to go paragliding because it is near trekking routes. It is genuinely one of the best paragliding locations on the planet, attracting professional pilots from around the world who come specifically for the conditions here. Several factors combine to make Pokhara exceptional for this sport.

Perfect Thermal Conditions

The Pokhara Valley sits at the intersection of subtropical lowlands and towering Himalayan peaks, creating a microclimate that generates reliable thermal updrafts. During the flying season, warm air rises predictably from the valley floor and hillsides, allowing paragliders to gain altitude and extend their flights. These thermals are what make longer cross-country flights possible, with experienced pilots sometimes soaring for hours.

The surrounding terrain creates a natural amphitheater effect. The Annapurna range to the north blocks cold northern winds, while the Seti River gorge and surrounding hills channel warm air upward. This combination means that on good flying days, conditions are stable, predictable, and ideal for both beginners and advanced pilots.

Unmatched Scenery

Few paragliding sites anywhere in the world offer views that compare to Pokhara. During your flight, you may see:

• Annapurna I (8,091m) - the tenth highest mountain on Earth
• Machhapuchhre (6,993m) - the iconic fish-tailed peak that dominates Pokhara's skyline
• Annapurna II, III, and IV - the spectacular central section of the range
• Dhaulagiri (8,167m) - the seventh highest mountain, visible on clear days
• Manaslu (8,163m) - visible in the distance on exceptionally clear days
• Phewa Lake - the stunning second-largest lake in Nepal, glistening below
• Pokhara Valley - terraced hillsides, rivers, and the city spread out beneath you

For trekkers who have just spent days or weeks hiking through the Annapurna region, seeing these same mountains from the air provides an entirely new perspective on the landscape you traversed on foot.

Large, Safe Landing Zone

The designated landing area near Phewa Lake provides a spacious, obstruction-free zone for touchdown. Unlike many paragliding sites where landing requires precision in tight spaces, Pokhara's lakeside landing zone is generous and forgiving. This contributes significantly to the safety record and makes the experience less stressful for first-time flyers who might be nervous about the landing.

What to Expect During a Tandem Paragliding Flight

If you have never been paragliding before, understanding the process from start to finish will help you relax and enjoy every moment of the experience.

Before the Flight

Your operator will pick you up from your hotel in Lakeside, typically between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM for morning flights, or around 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM for afternoon sessions. The drive to Sarangkot takes approximately 30 minutes along a winding mountain road with increasingly impressive views as you climb.

At the launch site, you will meet your tandem pilot and receive a brief safety briefing that covers:

• How to position yourself during takeoff (the most active part of your job)
• What to do during flight (sit back and enjoy)
• Landing procedure (lift your legs when instructed)
• Hand signals and communication

You will be fitted with a harness that attaches you to the front of the tandem glider, with your pilot sitting directly behind you. The entire preparation takes about 10-15 minutes.

The Launch

The takeoff is the part that makes most first-timers nervous, but it is surprisingly straightforward. You and your pilot will stand at the edge of the launch hill with the paraglider laid out behind you. When conditions are right, your pilot will inflate the wing above your heads, and you will both run forward down the gentle slope.

After just a few steps, the wing catches the air and lifts you off the ground. Within seconds, you are airborne and the ground drops away beneath your feet. The transition from running to flying happens so smoothly that many people are surprised by how natural it feels.

During the Flight

Once airborne, you will settle into a comfortable seated position in your harness. The harness functions like a suspended chair, and most people find it remarkably comfortable. Your hands are free to take photos and videos, point at landmarks, or simply grip the harness straps if you prefer.

Your pilot will navigate using thermals to maintain or gain altitude, making gentle turns to showcase the best views. Communication is easy since your pilot is right behind you and will point out mountains, landmarks, and other features throughout the flight.

What the flight feels like:

• Smooth and peaceful - nothing like the jarring experience of a roller coaster
• Temperature - slightly cooler than on the ground due to altitude and wind
• Noise - relatively quiet, just the sound of wind through the lines
• Speed - you are moving at 25-40 km/h, but it feels slower because you are high above the ground
• Turbulence - occasional gentle bumps from thermal activity, nothing dramatic on standard flights

Most tandem pilots carry a GoPro or similar camera to capture your flight on video and in photos. This is usually included in the price or available as an add-on for $10-20.

The Landing

As your flight time winds down, your pilot will guide the glider toward the landing zone near Phewa Lake. The descent is gradual and controlled. Just before touchdown, your pilot will instruct you to lift your legs, and you will gently touch down on your feet (or sometimes your seat, which is perfectly fine).

The entire landing is smooth and controlled. After landing, you will have a few minutes to decompress, collect your photos/videos, and arrange transport back to your hotel.

Types of Paragliding Flights in Pokhara

Pokhara operators typically offer three main types of tandem flights. Understanding the differences will help you choose the right experience for your interests, budget, and comfort level.

Flight Type Comparison

| Flight Type | Duration | Altitude Gain | Cost (USD) | Experience Level | Best For | |---|---|---|---|---|---| | Standard Tandem | 20-30 min | 200-400m above launch | $80-$100 | Complete beginner | First-timers, those on a budget | | Acrobatic/Adventure | 20-30 min | 200-400m above launch | $100-$130 | Beginner (brave) | Thrill seekers, adrenaline junkies | | Cross-Country | 45-60+ min | 500-1,500m above launch | $120-$180 | Beginner (patient) | Photographers, mountain enthusiasts |

Standard Tandem Flight

The standard tandem flight is the most popular option and what the vast majority of trekkers choose. It lasts 20-30 minutes and involves smooth, gentle flying with wide turns to showcase the scenery. Your pilot will use mild thermals to maintain altitude and provide a comfortable, scenic experience.

This is the ideal choice for first-time flyers, anyone who is slightly nervous about the experience, and those who want beautiful photos without any stomach-dropping maneuvers.

Acrobatic/Adventure Flight

The acrobatic flight covers the same duration as the standard flight but includes thrilling maneuvers such as:

• Wingovers - steep banked turns that create a pendulum-like swinging sensation
• Spirals - rapid descending turns with increased G-forces
• Full stalls - the wing briefly collapses before reinflating (the most intense maneuver)
• SAT maneuvers - a sustained spiral with high bank angles

This option is for those who want an adrenaline rush on top of the scenic experience. Your pilot will check with you before performing each maneuver and can stop at any time if you are uncomfortable.

Cross-Country Flight

The cross-country flight is the premium option for those who want the longest possible time in the air and the most dramatic views. Rather than staying near the launch site, your pilot will actively seek out strong thermals to climb high above the valley, sometimes reaching altitudes 1,000-1,500 meters above the launch point.

At these heights, the panoramic views are extraordinary. You can see the entire Annapurna range, the Pokhara Valley spread out below, and on exceptional days, even distant peaks in the Dhaulagiri and Manaslu ranges. Cross-country flights last 45-60 minutes and occasionally longer when conditions are exceptional.

This option is ideal for photography enthusiasts, experienced travelers who want the most immersive experience, and anyone who simply wants more time in the air.

Best Time for Paragliding in Pokhara

While paragliding operates year-round in Pokhara (except during the peak monsoon months of July-August), conditions vary significantly by season. Choosing the right time maximizes your chances of a spectacular flight.

Seasonal Overview

| Season | Months | Flying Conditions | Mountain Views | Wind | Recommendation | |---|---|---|---|---|---| | Peak Autumn | Oct-Nov | Excellent | Crystal clear | Light, stable | Best overall period | | Winter | Dec-Jan | Good | Clear mornings | Can be cold | Good if dressed warmly | | Pre-Spring | Feb-Mar | Very Good | Increasingly clear | Moderate | Excellent with fewer crowds | | Spring | Apr-May | Good to Excellent | Good, some haze | Stronger thermals | Great for cross-country | | Pre-Monsoon | Jun | Fair | Hazy, some cloud | Variable | Still possible on good days | | Monsoon | Jul-Aug | Poor | Clouded | Unpredictable | Most operators suspended | | Post-Monsoon | Sep | Improving | Clearing | Variable | Conditions improving daily |

October-November: The Prime Season

The post-monsoon autumn season offers the absolute best conditions for paragliding in Pokhara. The monsoon rains have washed the atmosphere clean, leaving remarkably clear skies that reveal the full Himalayan panorama in stunning detail. Winds are light and predictable, thermals are gentle but adequate, and the landing zone is dry and firm.

This is also peak trekking season, which aligns perfectly with the many trekkers finishing their Annapurna adventures during these months. The downside is that this is the busiest period, so booking in advance is recommended.

February-April: The Spring Sweet Spot

Spring offers excellent flying conditions with the added benefit of slightly fewer tourists than the autumn peak. February and March bring clear skies after the winter haze dissipates, while April sees stronger thermals that are particularly good for cross-country flights. The rhododendron forests visible from the air add beautiful splashes of red and pink to the landscape below.

Time of Day Matters

Within any given day, morning flights (8:00-10:00 AM) typically offer:

• Clearest mountain views before afternoon clouds develop
• Calmer, smoother air for a gentler ride
• Better light for photography

Afternoon flights (12:00-3:00 PM) offer:

• Stronger thermals for longer flights and more altitude gain
• More dynamic flying conditions
• Potential for extended cross-country flights

If clear mountain views are your priority, book the earliest available morning slot. If maximizing flight time is more important, an early afternoon slot when thermals are strongest may be better.

How Much Does Paragliding in Pokhara Cost?

Prices for tandem paragliding in Pokhara have remained relatively stable over the past few years. Here is what you can expect to pay in 2026.

Current Pricing

| Service | Price (USD) | Notes | |---|---|---| | Standard tandem (20-30 min) | $80-$100 | Most common option | | Acrobatic tandem (20-30 min) | $100-$130 | Includes aerobatic maneuvers | | Cross-country tandem (45-60 min) | $120-$180 | Extended flight with thermal climbing | | Video/photo package | $10-$20 | Often included in higher-priced packages | | Hotel pickup/dropoff | Included | Standard with all operators | | Transport to Sarangkot | Included | Jeep ride up to launch site |

What Is Included in the Price

A standard tandem paragliding package typically includes:

• Hotel pickup from Lakeside (sometimes Thamel area of Pokhara)
• Jeep transport to Sarangkot launch site
• Safety briefing and equipment fitting
• The flight itself with a licensed tandem pilot
• GoPro video and photos (confirm with your operator)
• Landing and transport back to your hotel or Lakeside

Saving Money on Paragliding

While paragliding in Pokhara is already reasonably priced by international standards, there are a few ways to save:

• Book through your trekking agency - if you booked your trek through a reputable agency, they often have partnerships with paragliding operators and can negotiate discounted rates
• Book directly at the operator's office - walking into a paragliding operator's office in Lakeside and booking directly can sometimes be cheaper than booking through a hotel or third party
• Group discounts - some operators offer small discounts when multiple people book together
• Off-peak timing - flying in December-January or May-June may yield slightly lower prices due to reduced demand

Choosing a Safe and Reputable Operator

The single most important decision you will make about paragliding in Pokhara is which operator to fly with. While the overall safety record in Pokhara is excellent, the quality gap between the best and worst operators is significant.

What to Look For

Pilot qualifications:

• Licensed by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN)
• International tandem pilot certification (IPPI card level 5 or equivalent)
• Minimum 500+ tandem flights experience (1,000+ is better)
• Many of the best pilots are Nepali nationals trained in Europe or have years of international competition experience

Equipment standards:

• Paragliders and harnesses should be modern (manufactured within the last 5-6 years)
• EN/LTF-certified tandem wings
• Reserve (emergency) parachute that is regularly repacked
• Radio communication equipment
• Proper helmets for both pilot and passenger

Operational practices:

• Weather assessment before every flight (good operators cancel when conditions are unsafe)
• Comprehensive passenger briefing
• Insurance coverage
• Professional ground handling team at the landing zone

Red Flags to Avoid

• Operators offering prices significantly below market rate
• Pilots who seem rushed or skip the safety briefing
• Equipment that looks worn, frayed, or outdated
• No mention of insurance or cancellation policy for bad weather
• Pressure to fly when weather conditions appear marginal
• No reserve parachute visible on the harness

Reputable Operators to Research

While we do not endorse specific operators, the following companies have consistently strong reputations in the Pokhara paragliding community. Research their current reviews before booking:

• Frontiers Paragliding - one of the longest-running operators with internationally certified pilots
• Blue Sky Paragliding - known for experienced pilots and modern equipment
• Team 5 Nepal - popular with experienced paragliders and cross-country enthusiasts
• Sunrise Paragliding - well-established with a large pilot roster
• Fly Pokhara Paragliding - good reputation for tandem flights

Check recent reviews on Google Maps, TripAdvisor, and travel forums. Look for reviews from the past 6-12 months, as operator quality can change over time.

Safety Considerations

Paragliding in Pokhara has an excellent safety record, particularly for tandem flights with qualified operators. However, it is still an adventure sport that carries inherent risks, and understanding these helps you make informed decisions.

Overall Safety Record

Tandem paragliding with a qualified pilot is statistically very safe. The tandem pilot controls the flight entirely, and the passenger's role is essentially passive after takeoff. Serious accidents are rare and almost always involve one or more of the following factors:

• Unqualified or inexperienced pilot
• Equipment that has not been properly maintained
• Flying in inappropriate weather conditions
• Solo (non-tandem) flying by inexperienced pilots

When you fly with a properly licensed, experienced pilot using well-maintained equipment in appropriate conditions, the risk level is comparable to many other common tourist activities.

Weather and Cancellations

Reputable operators will cancel flights when conditions are unsafe. This might happen due to:

• Strong or unpredictable winds at the launch site
• Thunderstorm activity in the area
• Poor visibility due to fog or low clouds
• Excessive thermal activity that could be uncomfortable or unsafe

If your flight is cancelled due to weather, a good operator will offer a full refund or reschedule for another day at no extra charge. This is why it is worth building flexibility into your schedule.

Health Considerations for Post-Trek Flyers

If you are paragliding after completing a trek, consider the following:

• Physical condition - you do not need to be in peak physical shape for tandem paragliding, but you do need to be able to run a few steps during takeoff
• Knee/ankle injuries - if you sustained any minor injuries during your trek, the landing involves absorbing some impact through your legs. Inform your pilot so they can adjust the landing technique
• Altitude sickness recovery - if you experienced altitude sickness during your trek, ensure you have fully recovered before flying. The altitude at Sarangkot (1,592m) is well below where AMS typically occurs, but headaches and nausea from residual altitude effects could be uncomfortable during flight
• Ear pressure - the altitude change during the flight (approximately 770 meters descent from launch to landing) can cause mild ear pressure similar to a flight. Swallowing or gentle jaw movements help equalize

Practical Tips for Trekkers

What to Wear

• Comfortable, layered clothing (it is cooler at altitude than on the ground)
• Closed-toe shoes with ankle support (running shoes or trekking shoes are ideal)
• Sunglasses with a secure strap (essential to prevent them from blowing off)
• Sunscreen applied before the flight
• A light jacket or fleece, especially for morning flights

What to Bring

• Camera or smartphone with a secure strap or lanyard
• GoPro or action camera if you have one (selfie stick optional)
• Small amount of cash for tips (tipping your pilot $5-10 is customary but not required)
• Nothing else. Leave valuables and loose items at your hotel.

What Not to Bring

• Large backpacks or bags (your operator will store them during the flight)
• Loose hats without chin straps (they will blow away)
• Flip-flops or sandals (not suitable for the running takeoff)
• Heavy or bulky items that could shift during flight

Combining Paragliding with Your Trek Schedule

One of the best things about paragliding in Pokhara is how easily it fits into a typical trekking itinerary. Here are the most common ways trekkers incorporate this activity.

Post-Trek Celebration (Most Popular)

Most trekkers treat paragliding as a reward after completing their trek. A typical schedule:

• Day 1: Return to Pokhara from your trek, rest and recover
• Day 2: Morning paragliding flight, afternoon relaxation at Lakeside
• Day 3: Travel to Kathmandu or continue your Nepal itinerary

This gives you a rest day between the physical demands of trekking and the excitement of paragliding. The morning slot on Day 2 provides the best mountain views and leaves your afternoon free for other Pokhara activities.

Pre-Trek Warm-Up

Some trekkers prefer to paraglide before their trek, especially if they have a spare day in Pokhara while organizing permits and meeting their guide:

• Day 1: Arrive in Pokhara, settle in, organize permits
• Day 2: Morning paragliding, afternoon gear shopping and final preparations
• Day 3: Begin trek

The advantage here is that you get an aerial preview of the mountains you are about to trek through, which adds excitement and anticipation.

Combining with Other Pokhara Activities

If you have 2-3 days in Pokhara (which we recommend), paragliding pairs well with:

• Sunrise at Sarangkot - visit the viewpoint early in the morning, then paraglide later that day or the next. See our Pokhara guide for trekkers for details
• Boating on Phewa Lake - a calmer activity for the afternoon after your morning flight
• Visiting the International Mountain Museum - excellent context for the mountains you saw from the air
• Lakeside dining and shopping - celebrate your flight (and trek) with a nice meal

For trekkers with extra time in Nepal, consider combining your Pokhara stay with other activities like a day trip to Nagarkot for Himalayan sunrise views once you return to Kathmandu, or adding a Chitwan safari to your itinerary.

Beyond Tandem: Learning to Paraglide in Pokhara

If your tandem experience sparks a deeper interest, Pokhara is also an excellent place to learn solo paragliding. Several schools offer structured courses for beginners.

Training Options

| Course | Duration | Cost (USD) | What You Learn | |---|---|---|---| | Introductory (P1) | 3-5 days | $400-$600 | Ground handling, first solo flights | | Beginner (P2) | 7-10 days | $800-$1,200 | Independent takeoff, flight, and landing | | Intermediate (P3) | 14-21 days | $1,500-$2,500 | Thermal flying, cross-country basics | | SIV Course | 3-5 days | $600-$900 | Safety/recovery maneuvers over water |

These courses are significantly cheaper than equivalent training in Europe or North America, while the flying conditions are often superior. Many international paragliding enthusiasts come to Pokhara specifically for training.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts: Why Every Trekker Should Try Paragliding in Pokhara

After spending days or weeks immersed in the mountains at ground level, seeing those same peaks from the air is a profoundly different experience. Paragliding in Pokhara is not just an adrenaline activity; it is a new perspective on the Himalayan landscape that transforms your understanding of the terrain you trekked through.

The combination of world-class flying conditions, stunning scenery, accessible tandem options, and reasonable pricing makes Pokhara's paragliding scene one of the best adventure activities available to trekkers anywhere in the world. Whether you choose a gentle 20-minute scenic flight or an hour-long cross-country adventure, the memory of soaring above Phewa Lake with the Annapurna range stretching across the horizon will rank among the highlights of your entire Nepal trip.

For more information on planning your time in Pokhara, see our comprehensive Pokhara Guide for Trekkers. If you are still planning your overall Nepal itinerary, our guide to things to do after your trek in Kathmandu covers additional activities for the end of your trip.