Thailand , also called the “Land of Smiles” , is home to vibrant culture and rich cuisine. From crowded cities to stunning beaches, jungles, hilly regions and traditional temples Thailand has something for everyone. This beauty doubles when witnessed while Paragliding in Thailand. It is a top destination for those looking for various thrilling adventures and traditional and modern cultures. It is a must-visit destination because it offers a range of captivating landscapes. You will see the panoramic view of the golden beaches, the Gulf of Thailand, the lush green mountains, and the bustling cityscape of both traditional and modern architecture.
Factors That Affect Paragliding In Thailand
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When choosing a place for paragliding in Thailand, one must consider certain important factors to ensure a memorable experience, such as:
- Weather Conditions
- Height of Paragliding Thailand
- Wind and Temperature
- Regulatory and Safety Standards
- Wildlife and other human activity
- Geographic Features
Suggested Read: The Ultimate List Of The Top Things To Do In Thailand
Levels Of Paragliding In Thailand
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Beginner And Expert
Paragliding in Thailand allows experiences for both beginners and skilled paragliders. There are Paragliding courses available for learners as well. This is in three parts: Beginner, intermediary and advanced courses. The Beginner course covers basic skills like ground handling, takeoff and landing practice and other safety steps. The Intermediary course offers cross-country flying and navigating complex weather conditions.
One-time/Tandem Flights
Tandem flights are one popular option for people who want to try it for the first time or assess their interest in learning the sport further. In this, you will be provided with an experienced pilot to fly along with you. You only have to be in good physical condition to partake in this. The duration of the flight varies as per the price.
Equipment Rental
If you already have a certificate in paragliding, renting equipment is a convenient option. Rental services are available in the local market as well as in paragliding schools.
Popular Destinations To Experience Paragliding In Thailand
1. Pattaya
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Pattaya offers stunning coastal views of the beaches, nearby islands, golf courses, the Gulf of Thailand and the city skyline. It is a must-have experience for paragliders. Pattaya is also known for its delicious seafood, renowned shopping centers like the Royal Garden Plaza and rich cultural attractions of Pattaya Museum and Wat Phra Tai Temple. Along with the nearby islands of Koh Larn, Koh Sak makes Pattaya a must-visit.
Minimum Height (Beginner): About 200- 600 meters (660 to 1,970 feet) above sea level.
Suggested Read: Amazing Places To Visit In Thailand On Your Next Tropical Vacation
2. Hua Hin
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Located about 200 km Southwest of Bangkok, Hua Hin is a fascinating beach town offering special sky views of Maruekhathaiyawan Palace, Khao Hin Lek Fai and Hua Hin Hills vineyards. It is a must-visit for foodies, wine and adventure enthusiasts. This place is also known for its Royal Connections, watersports activities (kitesurfing, paddleboarding, sailing) and Hua Hin Railway Station, which is a historic train station.
Minimum Height (Beginner):About 200 to 800 meters (660 to 2,625 feet) above sea level.
3. Chiang Mai
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This cultural and spiritual hub of Thailand offers scenic landscapes of hundreds of ancient temples, rice fields and surrounding mountains from the sky. This place is also known for its traditional festivals of Loy Krathong and Songkran. The nearby hill tribes and villages are also a center of attraction. Cooking classless, Culinary workshops, Elephant sanctuaries, and conservation centers along with Doi Inthanon National Park make Chiang Mai a great spot for those interested in cultural and spiritual exploration.
Minimum Height (Beginner): About 400 – 1,200 meters (1,310 to 3,940 feet) above sea level.
Suggested Read: Beaches In Thailand To Explore For A Scenic Vacation
4. Phuket
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Located about 867 km southwest of Bangkok. It is the largest island and a favorite hub for travelers. Offering a serene view of the crystal-clear waters of the Andaman Sea, James Bond Island, golf courses, and Old Town’s Sino-Portuguese architecture. Consistent winds and thermals make it ideal for paragliding. Phuket is also known for the 45-meter-tall statue of Lord Buddha on top of Nakkerd Hills. Phuket Fantasea (cultural theme park), Chalong Temple and Phuket Elephant Sanctuary are some other attractions of Phuket.
Minimum Height (Beginner): About 300 to 1000 meters (980- 3280 feet) above sea level.
5. Pai
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Pai is a small town in Northern Thailand that offers scenic paragliding flights over rolling hills and valleys. It is considered to be the hidden gem of Thailand and offers a blend of natural beauty, adventure and relaxation. Pai is also known for waterfalls, hot springs, scenic drives of Pai Canyon, Wat Phra That Mae Yen, yoga, and wellness. It also offers similar adventure sports activities, including fishing, motorbike tours, cycling, zip lining, caving and rock climbing.
Minimum Height (Beginner): About 500- 1,500 meters (1,640 – 4920 feet) above sea level.
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Thailand For First-Timers For A Scenic Retreat
6. Sik Hiu, Khao Sadao
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Located around 120 km from Bangkok, Sik Hiu is a paragliding spot located in Chachoengsao province. Best known for providing a paragliding experience at the cheapest price for a daily flying charge of about 100 Baht. Its surrounding area offers various attractions as well, including Khao Sadao National Park, Sik Hui waterfall, Khao Chakan (hill), the old town of Chachoengsao, Bang Pakong River, etc.
Minimum Height (Beginner): About 200- 1200 meters (660- 3,940 feet) above sea level.
Best Time For Paragliding
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The best time for paragliding in Thailand is during the dry season, from November to April. The dry season offers clear skies, less rainfall, and fair wind conditions, making it ideal and more enjoyable for Paragliding Thailand. The best time depends on the location and weather conditions.
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Average Cost For Paragliding In Thailand
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Paragliding charges in Thailand range from 400-2500 Baht per person. The cost of Paragliding in Thailand varies on multiple factors. The time duration, instructor/pilot, location and the type of flight (tandem/solo) all heavily affect the charges. There are some additional costs as well like some locations asking for landing fees or insurance covering adventure sports.
Tandem Paragliding Flights: 500 to 4,000 Thai Baht. (approx).
Paragliding Courses: 35,000 to 70,000 Thai Baht (approx).
Equipment Rental: 1,500 to 3,000 Thai Baht (approx).
Thailand’s clear blue sky above the stunning beaches, islands, mountains, and temples offers the opportunity to experience the diverse landscape while Paragliding Thailand. Its famous paragliding schools and professional instructors and operators result in its international fame among paragliders of all skill levels. Plan a trip with TripXL and start your next paragliding adventure in Thailand, with the minimum hassle.
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