Himachal Adventure Guide
One of the most exciting and adventurous activities organized on the turf of Indian Himalayas in Himachal Pardesh is Para - Gliding. Nothing could be as adventurous as flying in the open sky, where there is no boundary and hindrances. Himachal Pradesh Tourism Corporation provides various equipments and amenities to the tourists to facilitates para - gliding sports.
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.
