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Para-Gliding
Para-Gliding
in Himalayas
One of the greatest desires of mankind has been to fly freely like a
bird, and explore the bounds of sky. The desire can’t becompletely
fullfilled by heli copter or aeroplane ride, as they do not give a first
hand experience. Paragliding has therefore emerged as a new means to
satisfy the hunger for flying. Para gliding uses “thermals’ as
the driving force. In perfect weather conditions one can stay aloft for
over three hours and can soar to heights more than 3,000m.
Hand Gliding
Hand Gliding is similar to Para gliding, except that one has to use the
wind currents to soar through sky. The flyer is tied to a Keel, which
has large extended blades, to navigate through air currents. For
starting the flight, one has to run downhill, at an slope of 40 degrees.
Due to this, the flyer can fill air in the columns of keel and take-off
in air. More the experience is, more time one can spend in sky by hand
gliding. If you like soaring like an eagle in sky, then Hand gliding is
for you.
Major Centres
Kangra Valley
Kangra Valley has some excellent
centres for para gliding. Billing peak, above Bir, has been a venue for
3 international and 5 national hand gliding rallies. The clear sky here
can lure any one to take up a gliding challenge. Kangra valley has been
termed as one of the most beautiful gliding spots in world. Dhelu, Bir
and Billing are the major centres for gliding activities in Kangra.
Equipments and Guidance
The equipments and guidance services are provided by Himachal Pradesh
Tourism Development Corporation. One has to be over 15 years of age, and
weigh between 45 to 85 Kg in order to qualify for gliding activity. The
person must be physically fit and must be free from any disability.
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