Paragliding in Pokhara: Fly with a pilot

Soar above the valley, land back at your hotel

Paragliding in Pokhara is a motorless flight with a certified pilot where you launch from Toripani, fly above the Pame valley with views of the Himalayas to the north and Phewa Lake to the south, and land safely before returning to your hotel. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, along with photos and video of your flight; the whole experience takes about two and a half hours. Children from age 10 are welcome, and a guide in English, Hindi or Chinese is available.

The Experience

The day starts with a pickup from your hotel and a short drive to the office, where you'll complete a liability form and meet your pilot. From there a van takes you to Toripani, the launch site on the ridge above the valley. You'll be fitted and briefed, then you and your pilot will run off the slope together—no engine, no parachute deployment, just the two of you catching the thermal currents rising off the valley floor. The flight itself lasts as long as the conditions allow, typically 20 to 45 minutes depending on the wind and how high you climb.

From the air you're looking down at the Pame valley and across to the Himalayan range on the northern horizon, with Phewa Lake visible to the south and east. The pilot handles all the flying; your job is to stay still, follow instructions, and take in the view. Crazy stunts—barrel rolls, tight spirals—are possible if you want them and the conditions permit, though most first-timers prefer to simply fly. When it's time to land, the pilot guides you down to a designated field, and you walk away under your own power.

After landing, the van picks you up and drives you back to your hotel. Before you go, the operator gives you photos and video of the flight—shot by the pilot or a ground camera—so you have proof of what you did. The whole outing, from pickup to drop-off, takes about two and a half hours. You'll want long sleeves, proper shoes, sunglasses and a hat; the operator can advise on layers depending on the season.

What’s included

• Hotel pickup and drop-off in a van.
• flight with a certified pilot in English, Hindi or Chinese.
• liability insurance.
• photos and video of your flight.

Good to know

Easy physical levelInfant seats availablePublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelers

Operated by Fly Nirvana Paragliding

Is this one for you?If you're staying in Pokhara without a car or you're new to the city, the hotel pickup means you don't have to find Toripani on your own—the operator handles the drive and the logistics, so you show up ready to fly and leave with the memory and the footage.

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Top questions

What's the actual flying time on a paragliding flight in Pokhara?

The flight typically lasts 20 to 45 minutes, depending on wind conditions and how high the thermals carry you and your pilot. The total time from hotel pickup to drop-off is about two and a half hours, which includes the drive to the launch site, briefing, flight and return journey.

Can I do tricks or rolls while paragliding, or is it just straight flying?

Crazy stunts like barrel rolls and tight spirals are possible if you want them and conditions allow, but they're optional. Most first-time flyers choose to simply fly and take in the view; your pilot will discuss what you're comfortable with before you launch.

What do I need to wear for paragliding in Pokhara?

Wear long sleeves, proper closed-toe shoes, sunglasses and a hat. Layers are a good idea depending on the season, since the temperature drops as you climb. The operator can advise on what to bring when you book.

Is paragliding in Pokhara safe for children?

Children from age 10 are welcome on paragliding flights. They fly with a certified pilot just as adults do, and the operator provides insurance coverage for all passengers. Children should be comfortable with heights and follow the pilot's instructions during the flight.

What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my flight?

Paragliding depends on wind and weather conditions. If conditions are unsafe on your scheduled day, the operator will reschedule you for another day or discuss other options; check the booking terms for the cancellation and rescheduling policy.

Do I get photos or video of my flight?

Yes, the operator provides photos and video of your flight, shot either by the pilot during the flight or by a ground camera. You'll receive these before you leave.