What is paragliding
Simply put, paragliding is a non-motorized, foot-launched form of free flying with an inflatable lightweight wing. The fabric canopy consists of many interconnected cells and is inflated by the air entering into them which gives it an aerodynamic shape. The aircraft has no rigid structure. The wing is connected with many lines to two main lines which are pulled by the Pilot against the wind. After the wing is inflated, the paragliding pilot takes a few steps down a slope and is lifted up in the air. The pilot then sits in a harness which is suspended on main lines by a heavy duty carabineer. Tandem paragliding is a popular sport where one passenger is accompanied by the Pilot during the flight. A bigger wind is used for Tandem paragliding, designed to carry two people and a separate harness is strapped in front of the pilot. Anyone can experience paragliding by doing a tandem flight with an experienced and qualified instructor.
How is Tandem Paragliding flight conducted?
No flying experience is needed for a Tandem flight. After you meet at the meeting point, some paperwork is done and the passenger is picked to the take-off point. You might have to hike up to the take-off point. The take-off point is normally at a higher place and gives you an opportunity to enjoy the majestic views of the valley.
The weather plays a key role in tandem paragliding. Suitable wind conditions and clear sunny days are preferred for Paragliding sport. A small briefing is done by the pilot instructor, with dos and don’ts to the passenger, followed by a safety check and ready to take off. Run a few steps along the mountain slope and ahoy, you are in the air. It’s time to relax and enjoy the ride, The Pilot with do some round ups to catch the thermal to gain lift. The Pilot may assist you with handling the Go Pro camera so that you can get some nice shots and may tell you about the surrounding areas. So just sit tight and enjoy the serene views around.
Do I need to be Physically Fit?
You need to be considerably fit to run about 5-10 feet, rest you can just relax and witness the serene landscape and mountain views. You shall not have any medical problems like seizures, back bone problem, Spondylitis, Heart Problem, and Pregnancy or recently operated. Adventure sports are risky and you should be comfortable enough to the risk.
What are weight and height requirements for Tandem Paragliding?
With the present guidelines enforce and the equipment we have, the safe minimum weight is 25 kg and the maximum limit is 100 kg. In terms of height, there are no official restrictions, you just need to be able to comfortably fit in the harness.
How Old I should be?
As long as you have zeal you can fly high. Please Indemnify you and your kids and we shall get you wings. In case of Children, parent or guardian must be present to indemnify them, attend the briefing to be satisfied. All passengers are to indemnify them before paragliding ride.
What if I have fear of heights, Is it a Problem?
Fear of heights is a very common Phenomena but when you take off all the anxiety subsides. We are not jumping from any cliffs. If wind is favorable sometime, you don’t even have to run, the wing lifts you up automatically. The passenger harness is secured to the pilot and the Wing so there is nothing to worry about. If you are already reading this, it really means you are interested in flying. Let us know and we shall ensure that all your worries are gone and you have a memorable ride of your life.
How much time it takes for tandem paragliding experience?
The experience takes about one to two hours. The meeting, Transportation, Briefing and the flight itself. Depending on the bookings for the day and the weather conditions, there are chances you might have to wait for some time. Do have a check on the weather link on our website before you book. You can also call us on our Numbers to check the flights status.
What is the flight time?
The standard paragliding is about 10-15 minutes ride on good weather conditions. The other factors like how the passenger feels and react to this experience. Our objective is to provide good customer experience. If you want to fly high and a longer flight you can go for a High Flying package and we shall fly you really very high.
What if I want to fly again because I really enjoyed it?
If you really enjoyed the flight and think of going for another one, just call us, we shall arrange you a second flight provided the conditions are good and we have time, and we shall offer you a special rate for your second flight.
Do we jump off a mountain?
No, when you fly with us you fly with a qualified tandem instructor who lifts up the wing, makes sure that the wing is flying perfectly and then we take off from a slope using the wind to lift us up and glide effortlessly like a bird. You will be required to run for a few meters at takeoff and landing, but there will be no jumping or acrobatics involved.
What should I wear?
The weather conditions are cold in this region. It might be a sunny day but the wind might be very cold, which can chill your bones. Dress appropriately and wear layers. A warm jacket would be great enough to handle the wind during the flight. In winters try to wear a head cap that can go under the helmet. Footwear is very important, a high ankle shoes can be very good as you will have to run a few steps during take-off.
How safe is it really?
Paragliding is a safe sport as compared to other sports. The Pilots are well trained and have the necessary experience to judge the weather conditions and the customers. Out main priority is safety of customer and our pilot, and our pilots knows when to fly and when not to.
When can I fly?
The paragliding sport is done on daily basis from September to July every year on sunny days. Summers are good days for flying as the temperature is high and the lift is good, whereas during winters the wind is cold reducing lift eventually reducing flight time. The days are longer in summers so we have more hours of flying and in winters we have less hours of flying. We do not engage in night flying during any season.
Why weather is important?
Weather is the key player in Aviation industry. We do not compromise and take unnecessary risks, if the conditions are not suitable for flying. So sit tight with the patience for weather to be favourable, then all the waiting will be worth it. We just want you a memorable fun filled flight.
How do I book?
The easiest way is to visit our webpage Paragliding in Dharamshala, pick a date and book it. Do give us a call one day prior to the flight just to get an update on the weather.
Why Himachal?
Himachal is one of the popular spots in the world for paragliding sport. The mighty Dhauladhar Mountains in the background have spectacular views to enjoy during the ride. The perfect sunny days and the majestic views make it the perfect place for first timers as well as experienced paragliding pilots.
Can you recommend anywhere to stay in Dharamshala?
Dharamshala Town is a small town and gets pretty crowded in summers as people flock to mountains to get rid of the heated plains, so it might be a good idea to book your accommodation well in advance. Please see our Swiss Camps package or Camping Tents Package and book it online or give us a call to book it for you.
If you are not sure things to do in Dharamshala and visit popular attractions around the town, see our local sightseeing tour.
What else can I do at Hill Ventures?
Hill Ventures is the perfect place to be based on Adventure in Himachal Pradesh. It offers wide range of Adventure sports and activities. You can take adventure Combo pack and experience the thrilling adventure of Zipline adventure, Bungee Slingshot, Bull Ride, Rock Climbing and rappelling, Archery, ATV rides etc. Trekking and Hiking packages are also available to trek up in the serene mountains to witness the wilderness and toughness of the Himalayas. Camping is another option where you can stay in our spacious camps and enjoy the Bonfire in the night with your family or friends. If you are a large group, get MTB ride package and get your friends on MTB to cycle along the mountain roads never visited often by anyone.
Where is the meeting point for the tandem flights?
The Tandem paragliding is booked form Reception office of Hill Ventures
Google Location: Bagiarra, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176052
Conclusion
Brace yourself for an, popular extreme sport that combines elements of courage and thrill each. Descend down the Himalayan slopes to catch the strong thermals in your glider and enjoy the sights. Fly like a bird and catch the lifting thermal to fly high. A delight for both young and middle aged people, you can ride with an experienced, licensed pilot.
Book your tandem paragliding ride with Hill Ventures for Paragliding in Dharamshala or paragliding in Mcleodganj, and enjoy the serene Dhauladhar mountains in the background along the ride. Licensed tandem pilot can lift you off ground with a para glider for a flight time of 12-15 minutes. Pick up drop arranged within the package. Enjoy Paragliding in Dharamshala with Hill Ventures and collect a lot of memories.
