Kamshet Paragliding: Your Essential Guide To Amazing Flying Adventures

Paraglider flying solo high above Mont Valin and the green landscapes of Quebec

Kamshet lies in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, right between Pune and Mumbai, which presents a striking view of rolling hills, verdant green valleys, and serene lakes. Kamshet paragliding has moderate climatic conditions and has gained its place among India’s famous paragliding spots. You can get a real taste of flying over some of the most beautiful aerial views of Pawna Lake, Uksan Lake, and the vast expanse of the Western Ghats that add to the overall experience of flying.

Quick Facts About Kamshet Paragliding

Location: Kamshet, Maharashtra
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Price: ₹2,500 to ₹4,500
How To Reach: Easily accessible by road from Pune or Mumbai
Nearest Airport: Pune International Airport, 48 km
Nearest Railway Station: Lonavala Railway Station, 18 km
Best Time To Visit: October to May

Location

Kamshet features a green landscape and a vast lake in the middle of Tikona Fort and other hills

Photo: Rahul Rajbhar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Kamshet is a small hill station located about 45 km from Pune and 100 km from Mumbai. It is situated in the Kamshet region of Lonavala. The roads passing are Thugaon Kamshet Road, Main Bazar Road, Nane Road, and Kusgaon Road, which are connected to the Old Mumbai-Pune highway.

How To Reach

Kamshet is strategically placed and can easily be accessed from cities like Pune as well as Mumbai

Photo: Ravikiran kumbhar / Wikimedia Commons

By Air: The nearest airport from Kamshet is Pune International Airport, situated approximately 50 km away. From here, you have to hire a taxi or rent a vehicle to drive in picturesque Kamshet.

By Train: Kamshet has its railway station and Lonavala station, which is well linked with the Mumbai-Pune railway line. It is approximately 20 km from Lonavala railways. From the station, you can easily take local taxis or auto rickshaws to the hotels or the Kamshet paragliding.

By Road: Travelling from Pune takes an hour, while from Mumbai, it takes a couple of hours. State transport buses and private taxis are also operational in both cities and provide a relatively economical way of reaching Kamshet.

Places To Visit Around Kamshet Paragliding Spot

Explore the best places near Kamshet after your paragliding experience.

1. Lohagad Fort

 The whole area of the Lohagad Fort is covered in greenery and tourists are visible from above.

Photo: Rashmi.parab / Wikimedia Commons

Lohagad Fort is located about 18 km away from Kamshet paragliding. This fort is considered an easy trek that is important for both history and nature lovers. The fort rests on a hilltop, offering magnificent views of the valleys beneath Pawna Lake and Western Ghats. The path leading up to the base of the fort is pretty easy and is recommended even for most amateur trekkers. Lohagad Fort is most visited during the monsoon when the greenery is at its maximum and the misty surroundings give an enchanting look.

Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee:Free

2. Bedse Caves

Inside the ancient Bedse caves with rock-cut designs with carved pillars and stones

Photo: Soumitra Inamdar / Wikimedia Commons

Located about 15 km from the Kamshet paragliding spot are ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves that date back to the 1st century BCE. The caves form a tranquil getaway from the rather crowded tourist scenic spots in the area. It consists of two main caves, one of which houses a stupendously carved stupa and the other with columns and intricate carvings on the rock. Bedse Caves is one such point that any history enthusiast would love to go to find an understanding of the richly woven cultural and religious history of the region.

Timing: 8 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee:Free

3. Tikona Fort

A person entering the historic stone structure of the Tikona Fort covered in greenery

Photo: Ccmarathe / Wikimedia Commons

Another interesting trek around Kamshet paragliding is Tikona Fort, which is about 27 kilometres away. The pyramid-shaped fort has a moderately challenging climb and promises great countryside views and Pawna Lake, including the far-off forts of Lohagad and Visapur. The fort is historically important, and once atop, you can find ancient caves, water tanks, and temples. The view from the summit is quite striking, making Tikona Fort a very good destination for trekkers and history lovers in general.

Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee:Free

4. Visapur Fort

Hill of Visapur Fort covered in dense greenery visible from the road on the landscape

Photo: Gajaanan Deshmukh / Wikimedia Commons

Located near Lohagad Fort, Visapur Fort is also a hill fort that is great for adventure and trekking. Seated at an elevation of 3,556 ft, it gives views of the surrounding valleys and also the mesmeric Pawna Lake. The route to this fort is not easy to trek as compared to other located forts. You can find ancient ruins, water reservoirs, and scenic viewpoints on the way to the fort. The monsoon increases its beauty, wherein waterfalls and greenery add attraction. It is at a distance of 19 km from Kamshet paragliding.

Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee:Free

5. Bhaja Caves

Ancient structure of the Bhaja caves with carved pillars and stone steps from the front

Photo: Aparna Mandava / Wikimedia Commons

Situated a mere 15 km away from Kamshet, the Bhaja Caves are nestled within another cluster of very ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves. These 22 caves date back to the 2nd century BCE. They essentially consist of chaitya halls, stupas, and intricate carvings. Overall, it is a quiet retreat for history buffs and trekkers. You get to explore the ancient complex of caves and breathe in the beauty of sculptures that come along with panoramas of valleys. The other caves around are Karla Caves, Patan Buddhist Cave, and Nasik Caves.

Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee:₹25 for Indian nationals, ₹300 for foreign tourists

Where To Stay

Image of a hotel room with dim lights bed, clean sheets and pillows also sofa on the side

Photo: Derek Jensen / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

In Kamshet, travellers can find various accommodations to suit their needs. Popular options include Nature’s Paradise, offering serene views and cosy stay, Paragliding Adventures’ Camps, which provide a unique experience close to the flying sites, and Camping in Kamshet for an adventurous stay. Additionally, the Iris Resorts offers comfortable amenities and a beautiful setting for relaxation after paragliding excursions.

Where To Eat

Image of Mumbai biryani served on a white container and a tray below in a restaurant

Photo: Hirapriya / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

In Kamshet, food enthusiasts can enjoy local cuisine at several popular spots. Cloud 9 offers a variety of delicious dishes with stunning views. The Farmhouse serves homemade meals, perfect for a cosy dining experience. Chai and Pakoda are famous for quick snacks and tea. For a more casual environment, Bistro at the Hilltop provides tasty bites and refreshing beverages after paragliding adventures.

Other Factors To Consider

People enjoying the view and monsoon weather of Lonavala from the hilltop covered in mist

Photo: Kkmishra1960 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Average Cost Of The Trip: The average cost of a paragliding trip in Kamshet typically ranges from ₹2,500 to ₹6,000 per person. This includes tandem flights, equipment rental, and sometimes transportation. Additional expenses may involve food and personal items, so budgeting around ₹3,000 to ₹7,000 per person is advisable for a complete experience.

Tips For The Travellers:

  • The cost of paragliding in Kamshet varies depending on the type of flight and the operator.
  • Select certified operators with considerable experience, following every safety measure.
  • Pre-flight, your equipment has to be inspected, and you need to be briefed about the safety measures.
  • Carry enough water while trekking to other sites near Kamshet paragliding.

Kamshet paragliding is an experience of its own because it keeps you flying high above one of the most picturesque landscapes of the Western Ghats. From tandem paragliding for the newer ones to renewed flights solo, Kamshet has something for everyone. With favourable weather conditions, fabulous views, and proximity for convenience, little reason remains for Kamshet not to be considered among the best sites in India for paragliding. So, plan your paragliding adventure in Kamshet with TripXL today.

Cover Photo: 0x010C / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

No, tandem paragliding can be enjoyed by anyone, whether you're a complete beginner, because you'll be joined by an expert instructor.
Dress comfortably and wear hard shoes. Avoid any loose items or accessories that can make you feel uneasy during the flight.
Most operators let you fly with a GoPro or similar camera on you, but make sure it's properly secured. Some institutes also offer video and photography services, along with paragliding at extra cost.
Kamshet offers several accommodation options, from camping sites to guesthouses to hotels. You can also stay in nearby towns such as Lonavala or Pune.
You should visit Kamshet between October and May to enjoy paragliding.

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