Paragliding In Kashmir: Soaring Through The Sky Over Stunning Landscapes

Kashmir is known for its breathtaking natural beauty but did you know that it’s a great spot for paragliding as well? Beyond skiing, trekking and snowboarding experiences, paragliding in Kashmir is gaining a lot of popularity as well. While there are limited spots where paragliding happens in Kashmir, they are scattered around popular sightseeing spots, making it accessible to anyone interested in flying over the lush green meadows and the majestic mountains. With limited knowledge about paragliding experiences in Kashmir, it isn’t surprising that people are fairly curious to know all the details about paragliding experiences across Kashmir.

7 Best Places For Paragliding In Kashmir

Paragliding in Kashmir offers an unparalleled chance to witness the region’s splendour from a bird’s-eye view.

1. Gulmarg

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Start the list with Kashmir’s adventure capital, aka Gulmarg. While activities like skiing, snowboarding and gondola rides are popular in Gulmarg, especially during the winter season, the summers bring paragliding opportunities for the tourists. There are trained and licensed operators that conduct the paragliding experience from Apharwat Peak, which is accessible via the Gulmarg Gondola ride. With clear skies, proper safety instructions and a strong and resilient mindset, you too can jet off and experience paragliding over the beautiful mountains of Kashmir.

Location: Gulmarg, Baramulla District, Jammu and Kashmir
Best Time To Visit: May to October
Cost/Person: ₹3,500 onwards

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Gulmarg

2. Pahalgam

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Pahalgam, more commonly known as the “Valley of Shepherds,” is a place where you can indulge in paragliding experiences. With so many lush green meadows and alpine lakes, there are ample opportunities for you to embark on a paragliding experience across Pahalgam. The town is situated at the confluence of the Lidder River and Sheshnag Lake, surrounded by dense forests and towering mountains. One of the most common spots for paragliding in Pahalgam is on the meadows near Lidder River.

Location: Pahalgam, Anantnag District, Jammu and Kashmir
Best Time To Visit: April to November
Cost/Person: ₹3,000 onwards

3. Srinagar

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The summer capital of Kashmir, Srinagar, is another one of the best places for paragliding in Kashmir. It’s enthralling, easily accessible and enables you to witness some of the most breathtaking views of the natural meadows, mountains and the stunning landscapes around. One of the most popular spots for paragliding in Srinagar is a nearby meadow called Astanmarg. Beyond that, another spot that makes for a perfect spot for paragliding in Srinagar is from Pari Mahal or the Mughal Gardens.

Location: Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir
Best Time To Visit: March to October
Cost/Person: ₹3,500 onwards

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Srinagar

4. Sonmarg

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Paragliding trips in Sonmarg are the highlight of many people’s Kashmir trips. Often termed the Meadow of Gold, Sonmarg paragliding enables you to truly soak in the views of the meadows, dense forests and the grazing cattle down below. The takeoff point is usually from Thajiwas Glacier, providing an exhilarating launch. The view of the Sindh River snaking through the valley and the surrounding mountains is truly magical. Beyond paragliding, Sonmarg also makes for a great spot for you to indulge in a variety of other experiences where you get a blend of thrill and natural beauty.
Location: Sonamarg, Ganderbal District, Jammu and Kashmir
Best Time To Visit: May to September
Cost/Person: ₹4,000 onwards

5. Astanmarg

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This is one of the most popular paragliding spots in Srinagar. It is a lesser-known and less explored spot, which explains why the crowd is usually a lot less there. So, if you want to soak in the views of the surrounding cityscape of Srinagar, including the aerial views of the mesmerising Dal Lake, shikaris and floating market, plan your paragliding experience at Astanmarg. During the summer and spring months, the meadow is covered in lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, which add to the thrill of the experience.

Location: Astanmarg, near Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir
Best Time To Visit: April to October
Cost/Person: ₹3,200 onwards

Suggested Read: National Parks In Jammu And Kashmir

6. Doodhpathri

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Beyond the Kashmir paragliding experience in Gulmarg, Sonmarg and Srinagar, another offbeat location where you can experience this adventure sport is in Doodhpathri. Since it’s an expansive meadow, there are multiple take-off points from different parts of Doodhpathri, which the operator will guide you through. Paragliding over Doodhpathri provides expansive views of the rolling meadows and pine-covered hills, offering a peaceful and exhilarating paragliding experience. All the basic information about safety and landing precautions is explained in detail by the operator, so you wouldn’t have to worry about the same.

Location: Doodhpathri, Budgam District, Jammu and Kashmir
Best Time To Visit: May to September
Cost/Person: ₹3,300 onwards

7. Hajan

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Hajan is another one of the popular spots for paragliding in Kashmir, more commonly known as Betaab Valley. Once you take off from one of the many meadows in the valley, the highlight of the paragliding experience comes from you soaring over the stunning Wular Lake, which is the largest freshwater lake in Kashmir. Also, the offbeat and serene location of this valley adds to the popularity of it being a great spot for a paragliding experience in Kashmir.

Location: Hajan, near Pahalgam, Anantnag District, Jammu and Kashmir
Best Time: April to October
Cost/Person:₹3,400 onwards

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Kashmir

Tips For Paragliding

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To ensure that you have the best experience paragliding, it is quintessential that you follow the basic tips.

• Always opt for a licensed and experienced paragliding operator to ensure safety and a smooth experience.
• Before you take off, cross-check on all the aspects of safety gear that you’d wear for the paragliding experience. You must ensure that you have all the safety gear, including a helmet, harness, and appropriate footwear. Learn about the landing process too.
• Check the weather forecast before your flight. Paragliding is best done on clear, calm days without strong winds or rain.
• Paragliding is not recommended for individuals with heart conditions, epilepsy, or severe fear of heights. If you are still excited about trying out the adventure activity, consult with your respective doctors first.

Paragliding in Kashmir is one of the best ways to soak in the views of the surrounding meadows, peaks and valleys. It is an unparalleled experience, one that’s bound to leave you in utter shock. It poses a unique opportunity to combine the thrill of adventure with the serenity of nature. So, plan your next trip to Kashmir with TripXL during the peak summer months for a safe and unforgettable paragliding experience.

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