I had always dreamed of flying—not in an airplane, but really flying, feeling the wind against my face, with nothing but the sky around me. That dream came true when I visited Pokhara, Nepal, a peaceful city surrounded by lakes and mountains. I had read that paragliding in Pokhara is one of the best in the world, and after some research, I found out Sarangkot is the most famous spot for it.
As someone coming from the busy cities of the USA, I was looking for something calm but thrilling. I didn’t know then that I was about to have one of the best experiences of my life. This blog is about that special day and what it felt like to fly above Pokhara. Hence, i went to gain paragliding experience in Pokhara.
The morning of the flight was bright and clear. I took a short drive from the lakeside area of Pokhara to Sarangkot, which is on a hilltop. As we drove higher, the views got better—green hills, the wide Phewa Lake, and the Annapurna mountain range in the background. At the take-off point, I met my instructor, who was kind and very experienced. He explained everything in simple steps, and that helped calm my nerves. Even though I was a little scared, I was more excited to try paragliding at sarangkot and finally check it off my bucket list. When it was time to fly, we ran a few steps and suddenly—I was in the air.
Just like that. The feeling is hard to explain, but it was peaceful and full of joy. Below me, I could see the whole city of Pokhara, the sparkling lake, and small villages on the hills. Above me, the sky was wide and blue. I felt small, but free. This was more than just a ride; it was a true paragliding experience in Pokhara. Something I will always remember and tell others about.
Paragliding
Paragliding is an adventure sport that lets you fly through the air using a lightweight, free-flying glider. It’s not motor-powered and works entirely with wind and gravity. The glider is made of strong fabric and shaped like a parachute, with cords attaching it to a harness where the person sits. The pilot takes off from a hill or mountain slope, and once the wind catches the glider, it lifts smoothly into the sky. Unlike airplanes or helicopters, paragliding gives you an open, bird-like feeling—you’re flying with nothing but air around you. It’s used for both recreational flights and competitive sports around the world.
A typical paragliding flight is done in tandem, which means you fly with a trained pilot. The passenger and pilot are both connected to the same wing, with the pilot controlling direction and speed. The launch happens by running a few steps down a hill until the wing catches the wind and lifts you up. Once in the air, you glide gently, using air currents to stay up and navigate the skies. Flights can last anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes depending on wind conditions and location. Landing is done smoothly on a flat, open area like a field or lakeside.
Paragliding is considered a safe activity when done with proper training and equipment. Companies follow strict safety procedures, checking the weather, wind speed, and glider condition before every flight. Pilots must be certified and experienced, especially in mountain areas like Pokhara. Passengers are provided with helmets, harnesses, and sometimes flight suits depending on the season. The gliders have reserve parachutes and are built to handle changes in wind. As long as you follow the pilot’s instructions, paragliding is not only safe but also an unforgettable way to explore the sky especially when it comes to Paragliding experience in Pokhara.
Paragliding Experience in Pokhara – A Day I’ll Never Forget
I woke up early in my hotel room near Phewa Lake, Pokhara. The sky outside was clear, with a soft golden glow rising over the mountains. I had booked my flight with Open Sky Paragliding Pokhara, and they sent a friendly guy named Bibek to pick me up. The ride to Sarangkot, the popular paragliding take-off point, was quiet and calming. Along the way, I saw fog-covered trees, farmers working in their fields, and school kids walking in their neat uniforms. It already felt like something special was about to happen.
Paragliding at Sarangkot : Paragliding experience in Pokhara
My Paragliding experience in Pokhara begin As we climbed higher up the hill, the city disappeared behind us and the air turned cool and fresh. When we reached the launch site in Sarangkot, my heart started beating faster—not from fear, but from excitement. The Open Sky team was professional and full of energy. Everyone was smiling, helping each other, getting ready to fly. My pilot, Prakash, greeted me with a calm voice and a warm laugh. He explained everything patiently, showing me how the harness works, how we’d take off, and how safe it all was. I felt like I was in good hands.
The take-off moment came faster than I expected. We took a few steps, the wind caught our parachute, and suddenly, the ground dropped away. I was flying. Not just sitting in a plane, but really flying—with my feet dangling and the wind brushing past my face. Below me, Pokhara looked like a painting. Phewa Lake sparkled under the sunlight, and I could see small boats floating like toys. The mountains—Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and the Annapurna range—stood tall in the distance, watching over everything.
The Paragliding Experience in Pokhara
We floated for about 25 minutes, turning gently with the wind. Prakash let me hold the controls for a bit, and I felt like a bird steering through the sky. We even did a few spins which felt like a rollercoaster in the clouds—scary for a second, then just fun. I saw eagles flying near us, gliding with ease. Far below, the hills were dotted with red and white houses, and the sounds of the city felt like a distant memory. It was peaceful, freeing, and completely unforgettable.
After landing softly in a green field near the lake, I felt a mix of calm and joy. My legs were shaky, but my heart was light. I thanked Prakash and the team, and we laughed together like old friends. Wanting to stay a bit longer, I strolled along the lakeside and spotted a small local eatery. I stepped inside and ordered dal bhat tarkari—a traditional Nepali meal of warm rice, lentil soup, spicy pickles, and curried vegetables. It wasn’t fancy, but it was delicious—simple comfort food that hit the spot after the thrill of flying.
Looking back now, I can say that paragliding in Pokhara with Open Sky Paragliding was one of the best decisions I made during my trip to Nepal. It wasn’t just about the flight—it was the people, the views, the peace, the food, and the feeling of being part of something bigger than myself. Sarangkot gave me a memory I’ll carry forever. If you ever come to Nepal, don’t miss this. It’s not just an activity; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the sky.
Requirements of Paragliding : Paragliding Guidelines
Before going paragliding in Pokhara, there are a few basic requirements that travelers should know. Most importantly, you should be in good general health with no serious heart, lung, or spine conditions. Paragliding is not extremely physically demanding, but you do need to run a few steps during take-off. The usual age limit for tandem paragliding is 16 years and above, and minors need a guardian’s permission. There is also a weight limit, usually between 20 kg to 100 kg, to ensure safe balance during the flight. If you’re unsure, it’s best to check with the paragliding company in advance.
Booking Tips for Paragliding
Booking your paragliding flight in Pokhara is simple, but it’s better to plan a day or two ahead. Most people book online through the company’s official website or directly in person at offices near Lakeside Pokhara. You’ll need to provide your name, passport number, contact details, and sometimes a copy of your ID. You can make payments in Nepali rupees, and some companies also accept foreign cards or online transfers. Prices usually include hotel pickup, transportation to Sarangkot, the flight, photos, and videos. The staff will assign you a time slot based on weather conditions and availability once you book.
On the day of your flight, there are a few final steps to complete before take-off. First, you’ll sign a short waiver form, confirming that you understand the risks and agree to safety instructions. Then, a guide or pilot will give you a safety briefing—explaining the harness, helmet, and what to expect during take-off and landing. You don’t need any training, as the pilot handles everything during tandem flights. Dress in comfortable clothes, wear sneakers or closed shoes, and bring a light jacket if the weather is cool. These simple formalities ensure your flight is safe, smooth, and unforgettable. These things should be unforgettable to gain Paragliding experience in Pokhara in pleasant way.
Conclusion : Paragliding experience in Pokhara
Paragliding experience in Pokhara is truly a unique experience that combines adventure with breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you are a thrill-seeker or just curious to try something new, flying from Sarangkot gives you a peaceful feeling of freedom high above the mountains and lakes. The friendly team at Open Sky Paragliding makes sure every step—from booking to landing—is safe and smooth, so you can focus on enjoying the incredible views. It’s an activity that anyone in good health can try, and one that leaves you with memories to treasure forever.
If you’re planning a trip to Nepal, don’t miss the chance to gain Paragliding experience in Pokhara. The city’s perfect weather, stunning landscapes, and welcoming people make it one of the best places in the world to fly. Just remember to prepare well, follow the safety instructions, and bring an open heart ready for an amazing adventure. Flying over Pokhara is not just about the thrill—it’s about connecting with nature and feeling truly alive. I hope you get to experience it too someday!
