Paragliding in Manali; Terrifying Experience! EVERYTHING You Need to Know!!
Overview of Manali and its Paragliding
Situated in the lap of the Himalayas, Manali manages to have a special place in everyone’s heart very well. Manali is truly a gift of the Himalayas to the world. This destination would prove to be a paradise for those who are searching for an escape from the scorching heat of the plains. Situated at the northern end of the Kullu Valley and formed by the Beas River. Manali offers mesmerising views of lush green valleys and majestic mountains.
Apart from this Manali is one of the prime cities to experience outdoor adventure activities. Some of these activities are camping, river rafting, rappelling, rock climbing, valley crossing, and many more. The enchanting sunrise and sunsets of Manali with the full glory of snowfall will take your breath away. Here you will find various camps surrounded by thick pine forest giving a rich view of the enticing beauty of nature.
Adventures in Manali
One of the many things that Manali is famous for is its thrilling paragliding. We have our own fears and phobias, some fear darkness, some fear water, and some fear heights. But overcoming your fears and insecurities is all life is about. Manali is the ideal city for you to face your fear of heights. This place has some amazing venues where you can enjoy paragliding. Various paragliding tour packages are customizable according to the tourist’s needs. These packages can vary anywhere from 2 hours to 2 days. The good thing about Manali’s paragliding is that the hills aren’t that high therefore, the fear involved is very less making it beginner friendly.
This article will help you to know everything that you are required to know for planning a paragliding tour in Manali.
There are various sites in this city that are ideal for this activity. Further, we will look into some of these places
Solang valley
Solang valley is often locally called Solang Nullah. This place is about 14 km away from Manali and is one of the best places for paragliding. The lush greenery, apple orchards, lakes, and snow-capped peaks are the major attractions. Solang valley attracts lakhs of visitors from India and abroad throughout the year. Having this experience will let you have an exquisite view of this mesmerising valley. Considering the expenses, the money spent highly depends on the duration of your activity.
If you take a short 1-minute flight, then it won’t cost you much. But at the same time, you won’t be able to enjoy nature and its view for long as it would end too soon. If you are planning to enjoy this experience to its fullest you should take a flight of at least 15 mins. It is also advisable to undertake this activity early in the morning as it will give you some rewarding sights with fresh cool air.
Reaching Solang valley:
Solang valley is well connected to Manali which is why the connectivity here is not an issue. There is various public transport including buses that will take you from Manali to Solang valley which would require around 1 hour.
Fatru
This is another delightful sight to experience paragliding. This location will provide you with a spectacular view of the sky to the ravishing beauty of nature around you. Although Fatru is often considered a paragliding spot for someone who isn’t a beginner. Also it has little experience in performing this activity. If suitable conditions prevail, this place can give you a long ride extending up to 20-30 mins which would give you an incredible rush of adrenaline, making you feel high on self-accomplishment.
Bijli Mahadev
This location is another excellent spot for experiencing paragliding. Located in Manali, this location will provide you with breath-taking views of the Parvati Valley. Its range will be covered with blooming flowers that will be a sight to behold.
Tips to follow while Paragliding
Some things to keep in mind before you go on Paragliding
When you are planning for such trips, always carry a photo id card that is issued by the government. This can be your passport or your Aadhaar card.
Always follow the instructions that are given by the instructors, no matter if you are a beginner or someone who has some experience in this activity.
Some people suffer from altitude sickness. As you ascend altitude and fly higher up the mountains, the lack of oxygen and difference in the air pressure might make you feel nauseous. In some rare conditions, it may cause dizziness or pulmonary oedema! Yes, you read it right. So, to be on the safer side, it is always recommended to have a medical check-up before you go on for such extreme activities.