Paragliding in Bhimtal at a Glance
| Activity | Tandem paragliding |
|---|---|
| Take-off | Junglia Gaon ridge above Bhimtal, about 4,490 ft (1,370 m) |
| Landing | Bhimtal valley, on the designated field near the lakes |
| Flight time | 8 to 10 min, 12 to 15 min, or 25 to 30 min, depending on the package |
| Age | Minimum 12 years; maximum 60 to 65 years |
| Weight | 15 to 90 kg standard; from 90 to 115 kg, an extra ₹500 applies |
| Booking amount | 25% of the total to confirm your booking |
| Best months | March to June and September to November |
| Difficulty | Beginner-friendly tandem experience |
About Paragliding in Bhimtal
Bhimtal is a lake town in Nainital district, Uttarakhand, known as the city of lakes. The flight starts from the Junglia Gaon ridge, with views over the Kumaon Himalayan ranges and the lake below, and lands in the green fields of the Bhimtal valley.
The flight is tandem: a certified pilot flies with you, so no experience is needed. Choose the flight length and a time slot, then pay 25% to confirm your booking.
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Bhimtal Paragliding Packages and Prices
The price depends on the flight length, the passenger's weight and any add-ons. Each price includes a certified tandem pilot, the transfer from the landing site to the take-off site, safety equipment and landing support. Prices are per person, and 5% GST is added at checkout.
| Package | Flight duration | Best for | Price per person |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short Flight | 8 to 10 min | First-timers, children and beginners | ₹2,000 |
| Medium Flight | 12 to 15 min | More flying time | ₹4,500 |
| Extended / Long Flight | 25 to 30 min | The longest experience | ₹7,000 |
Add-ons: video or photos can be added for ₹500 when you book. Passengers from 90 to 115 kg pay an extra ₹500.
Booking: pay 25% of the total to confirm your booking.
What is included
- Tandem flight with a certified pilot
- Pre-flight briefing and in-flight instructions
- Safety equipment
- Transfer from the landing site to the take-off site (about 2 to 5 km by road)
- Landing assistance at the Bhimtal valley
Not included
- Personal expenses
- Additional activities
- Photography and video (add-on at ₹500)
- Travel insurance
- Transport outside the stated itinerary
- 5% GST (added at checkout)
Your paragliding experience, step by step
Step 1: Check-in, weight check and briefing
Report to our team before your slot. They check your weight and age, and brief you on the flight and the landing.
Step 2: Drive to the ridge
You are driven from the landing site to the Junglia Gaon take-off site, about 2 to 5 km by road.
Step 3: Tandem flight
Your tandem pilot takes you from the ridge over the lake and the valley, and handles the controls throughout the flight.
Step 4: Landing in the Bhimtal valley
Your pilot explains the landing. Follow their instructions. You land on your feet or on your hips, depending on the wind, on the designated field.
Safety on the take-off, the flight and the landing
During take-off from Junglia Gaon ridge
- Follow your tandem pilot's instructions.
- Run with full energy, and keep running until the pilot says stop.
- The running speed depends on the wind, so listen to your pilot.
During the flight
- Sit comfortably, and do not move too much.
- Do not ask to take control of the glider.
- Avoid stunts, which can cause injury.
- Do not carry a wallet or phone in loose pockets. Hand them to your pilot if needed.
During the landing
- Follow your tandem pilot's instructions.
- Depending on the wind, you land on your hips or walk for 8 to 10 steps.
Why choose Manchala Mushafir for paragliding in Bhimtal?
- Certified, licensed tandem pilots
- Regular training and checks during daily flights
- Well-maintained safety equipment
- Pilots familiar with the local wind conditions
- Pilots trained to manage turbulence and emergencies
- 300 to 400 logged air time hours of experience
Why fly in Bhimtal?
Bhimtal gives you a high-altitude flight over the lake and the Kumaon hills. The take-off is at about 1,370 m, and flights are usually low enough that altitude sickness is not a concern, which makes it a good first flight for families and children.
- Views over Bhimtal lake and the Kumaon Himalayan ranges
- The Naukuchiatal ridge and the Junglia Gaon take-off
- A lake-side landing in the valley
- Good flights for beginners
What to wear and carry
- Sports shoes for running during take-off and landing
- A light windproof jacket, as it can be cold in the air
- Comfortable clothes that let you move freely
- Pants with zip pockets for your phone, ID or wallet
- Sunglasses, a cap and sunblock
- Drink water and use sunscreen before the flight
Best time to fly in Bhimtal
March to June: flights are best from about 7 AM to 6 PM, with lush green views.
September to November: flights are best from about 9 AM to 4 PM, with calm mornings and good wind.
July to mid-September: the monsoon brings rain, strong winds and poor visibility, so we do not recommend flying then.
Weather and cancellations
Paragliding depends on the weather, and the pilot makes the final call on the day. If your flight is cancelled because of the weather, you can reschedule it or get a full refund.
Customer cancellations: please call us before your slot to change or cancel.
Who can go paragliding in Bhimtal?
Paragliding is open to beginners, first-timers and children. Passengers must be at least 12 years old, and the maximum age is 60 to 65 years.
Please do not fly if you are pregnant, have had recent surgery, have a heart condition, or have a health condition that a doctor has advised against flying.
How to reach Bhimtal
- From Delhi: about 300 km, 6 to 7 hours by road.
- Nearest railway station: Kathgodam, about 22 km.
- Nearest airport: Pantnagar, about 55 to 60 km.
- Nainital: about 22 km.
Things to do near Bhimtal
- Bhimtal Lake boating
- The Aquarium Island Cafe
- The 40-foot Victoria Dam
- Kayaking and water sports
- Naukuchiatal, Sattal and Nainital
Related reading
Frequently asked questions
Can I go paragliding in Bhimtal during the monsoon?
No. Flying from July to mid-September can be risky because of rain, strong winds and poor visibility, so we do not fly then.
What happens if my flight is cancelled?
If your flight is cancelled, you can reschedule it or get a full refund.
Is video or photo included in the package?
No. Video or photos are not included. You can add them for an extra ₹500.
Can paragliding be cancelled because of bad weather?
Yes. Paragliding depends on the weather, so a flight can be cancelled. You can then reschedule or get a refund.
What is the best time for paragliding in Bhimtal?
March to June, from about 7 AM to 6 PM, and September to November, from about 9 AM to 4 PM. The pilot makes the final decision on the day, based on the weather.
What are the age and weight requirements?
Passengers must be at least 12 years old, and the maximum age is 60 to 65. The standard weight range is 15 to 90 kg. From 90 to 115 kg, an extra ₹500 applies.
Can children do tandem paragliding in Bhimtal?
Yes. Children aged 12 and above can fly with a certified tandem pilot.
Do I need ID proof?
Yes. Carry a valid photo ID.