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Presenting its geographical diversity of scenery with different landforms, paragliding in Maharashtra is a very exciting sport for adventure-loving people. The geography of the state contains everything from undulating hills down to broad valleys. Be it a flight over emerald-green lands or age-old forts, paragliding presents views that are coupled with an adrenaline-packed adventure. From the rugged outdoors of Pune to the serene valleys of Kamshet, Maharashtra has a lot that it can offer when it comes to paragliding spots for both beginners and experienced flyers.
Factors Affecting Paragliding
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Here are a few things that you should keep in mind while paragliding in Maharashtra to make it a safe and fun experience.
Weather Conditions: The most crucial accommodation factor that relates to paragliding is the weather. Maharashtra is a tropical place, with heavy rains up to September and turbulent winds, making these months unfit for paragliding. The preferable time for paragliding in Maharashtra is between October to March, when the weather is dry and the winds are favourable for flying.
Wind Patterns: Success in paragliding depends on the speed and direction of the wind. The wind conditions for flying a paraglider lie within light to moderate winds from about 10 to 25 km/hr. Stronger wind conditions or a rapid edge of gusts makes flying difficult to control, especially for a newbie. Before it takes off, there is a need to check the condition of the wind in the place to ensure a smooth and safe glide.
Safety Gear: Like any other adventure sport, paragliding does involve some amount of risk. A necessary precaution includes a helmet, harness, and parachute. Most licensed operators of paragliding in Maharashtra offer all their safety gear at the price of the package. You are also asked to fly with a professional instructor in a tandem flight for an extra dose of safety.
Levels Of Paragliding
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First-Level Tandem Paragliding: For people who want to experience flying without any technical training or knowledge, this could be the best option. Strapped into a harness with a professional pilot, the pilot controls everything from takeoff to landing, while you can simply enjoy the great views and pure enjoyment of flying.
Duration: 10 to 15 minutes
Novice Solo Flights: One can only go on a solo flight when they have completed basic training in launching, steering, and landing safely. Most training programs teach the most important elements of ground handling, wind patterns, and how to comfortably do take-offs and landings in about 2 to 3 days.
Duration: 10 to 20 minutes
Intermediate Paragliding: Intermediate paragliding flying is for those who have undergone a rather extensive training course and then garnered sufficient experience through solo flights. Intermediate pilots are often enabled to fly higher and in places that have more complicated terrain, for example, mountainous areas or coastal cliffs. This rating allows the level of training of a pilot to do cross-country flying, often trying to fly longer distances using thermals and ridge lift to extend flight time.
Duration: 30 minutes
Advanced Paragliding: Acrobatic or ‘acro’ paragliding is the most extreme form of flying, whereby experienced pilots pull mid-air stunts and precarious manoeuvres. This level requires immense concentration, skill, and very precise control over the glider, since pilots execute such tricks as loops, spirals, and flips at altitudes of thousands of feet above the ground. Acro pilots usually take extra specialised training according to safety techniques for recovery.
Duration: 10 to 60 minutes
Paragliding Destinations In Maharashtra
Out of all the paragliding sites, Maharashtra is believed to offer some of the most beautiful and adventurous spots.
1. Kamshet
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Kamshet is among the best places for paragliding in Maharashtra. It lies 50 km away from Pune, and it is a paradise for all those looking forward to some thrilling experience. Besides this, the winds are cool around the year, while the large open spaces make it a perfect place for the paragliders. You get to see the range of Sahyadri mountains, lush green fields, and quaint villages dotted in the landscape below as you soar through the skies. The serenity of Kamshet coupled with the thrill of flying makes it a favourite with both locals and tourists seeking an adrenaline rush.
Distance: 46 km from Pune
Duration: 15 – 30 minutes
Level: Easy to Moderate
Price: ₹2500 – ₹4500 per flight
2. Panchgani
Photo: Prateek.ashatkar / Wikimedia Commons
The general feature of Panchgani includes striking natural beauty, with landscapes enveloped in greenery. The place guarantees outstanding views of the valley during flights and has beautiful lakes nearby. Paragliding in Panchgani caters to all skill levels, whether you are a beginner or an advanced flier. The region is blessed with cool winds and pleasant weather conditions, which proves as a haven for long, peaceful flights. Many accomplished paragliders come to Panchgani just to combine the thrill of flying with the serenity of nature.
Distance: 100 km from Pune
Duration: 15 – 40 minutes
Level: Easy to Moderate
Price: ₹ 3000 – ₹ 5000 per flight
3. Lonavala
Photo: Udaykumar PR / Wikimedia Commons
Lonavala is amongst the most famous hill stations around Mumbai and Pune and houses very famous paragliding locations. Lush green valleys, historic forts, and stunning vistas of the Western Ghats are major attractions for adventure seekers. Most importantly, this allows for a mesmerising view during flights, while the soothing winds of the area and clear winter skies make the experience perfect. Even as Lonavala reaches a high demand during the monsoon season, paragliding usually happens after the rains when the atmosphere gets cleared and settled. Whether you are an experienced paraglider or a first-time flier, Lonavala provides you with the most exciting and breathtaking backdrop for an unforgettable adventure in the skies.
Distance: 67 km
Duration: 20 – 45 minutes
Level: Moderate
Price: ₹3500 – ₹6000 per flight
4. Bhivpuri
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Bhivpuri is one of the budding paragliding hotspots near Karjat; it has a long stretch of waterfalls with green hills. It provides a pictorial background or scenario for a fly, which could be regarded as ideal for both amateur and experienced flyers. There are professional instructors who will assist the novices in tandem flights so that you fully enjoy safety. The heady feeling of flying combined with the picture-postcard scenery makes Bhivpuri a definite stop for those who wish to experience the magic of paragliding in Maharashtra.
Distance: 120 km from Pune
Duration: 10 – 30 minutes
Level: Easy to moderate
Price: ₹2500 – ₹4000 per flight
5. Purandar Fort
Photo: Abhijeet Safai / Wikimedia Commons
Situated about 40 km from Pune, Purandar Fort is one of the most alluring sides for paragliding in Maharashtra because it encompasses the landscape of the Sahyadri ranges. It happens to be famous for its favourable wind conditions, which assures paragliders of a long and smooth flight. The area is rich in history and natural beauty; thus, paragliding here becomes a culturally enriching experience. Purandar is meant for intermediate-grade paragliders, promising a sense of adventure and exploration. The combination of excitement and cultural heritage provided through paragliding at Purandar makes it a truly memorable experience.
Distance: 40 km from Pune
Duration: 15 – 45 minutes
Level: Intermediate
Price: ₹3000 – ₹4500 per flight
Best Time For Paragliding In Maharashtra
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In Maharashtra, the best time for paragliding is from October to March since the general weather remains dry and the winds are perfect for flying. During these months, the skies remain clear, and the temperature is also pleasant, with excellent conditions for flying. The fliers must avoid the monsoon time between June and September as there is heavy rainfall and gusty winds, which ultimately makes flying unsafe.
Cost Of Paragliding In Maharashtra
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Paragliding in Maharashtra costs around ₹2500-₹6000 for each flight, depending on the place, time, and other factors. Tandem flying with professional instructors is usually arranged for at a bit more cost. If paragliding is included in a tour package, the charges are relatively low. If you are a certified glider, you can rent your gear and enjoy the sites where permission is not required.
Paragliding in Maharashtra is a thrilling adventure sport that has an ideal mix of thrill and picturesque beauty. From flying over the lush backgrounds of Kamshet to the historic forts of Sinhagad, paragliding is an experience unique in itself. With so many options to choose from, Maharashtra offers something for both a novice and an avid paraglider, truly a haven for people with adventure in their souls. So plan your journey with TripXL and experience the thrill of flying.
Cover Photo: JaStra / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
