Gliding in India

Gliding in India

No one can resist the temptation of indulging in the celestial recreation. You've always wanted to be a bird. For a long time, mankind has dreamed of flying high and soaring through the sky like a bird. So try your hand at skimming meters high above the mountain, enjoy the bird's eye view of the world.

Certain things must be taken into account while going for a gliding in India. The acrophobics (people who are afraid of heights) cannot take to it. Same with the case with the people with high or low blood pressure. It is also advisable for over weight persons not to resort this thrilling adventure. You will have to be mentally and physically fully fit. These are the common guidelines, which must be followed in any of the high-altitude games and adventure sports.

The risk involved in the gliding is undoubtedly very high. This makes it one of the most perilous sports. In case any medical complication or technical fault, the glider can get no help when he is aloft in the air. But these risks have not deterred people from going for gliding. On the contrary, the popularity of this adventurous sport has increased in geometrical progression. A glider will need a hand-glider, which is a heavy and large apparatus. It takes about half an hour to be set up, and same amount of time to be folded up. You need to know how to control and navigate it in case of unexpected buffeting wind.

Some of the best destinations for gliding in India are Billing (8,500 feet) in Kangra valley in Himachal Pradesh, Kallahatti near Ooty and some areas of the states of Sikkim, Goa, Orissa, Uttar Pradesh, Northeastern states. Billing has the unique distinction of organizing the very first paragliding competition according to the rules of Federation Aeronautique International. It is an ideal destination for all levels of gliders. The main reason for this is the suitability of its topography and climate to this adventure sport.

Parasailing is another form of aero sport which is acquiring great popularity among the adventure sport lovers in India. In this sport you are harnessed into a parachute which takes you into the air to enjoy the beauties of coastline beaches and cliffs from above. It's a pleasant activity for those who do not dare to ski or glide. The aero-adventure sport of paragliding also requires some basic training. A great fun, this sport takes you to the glorious heights with the help of parachutes. The thrill of this paragliding can be enjoyed on the slopes of the Solang valley near Manali, Nilgiri hills in the South India, the Eastern Himalayas in the Darjeeling/Gangtok area, Auli in Uttranchal, and Sansar in Jammu & Kashmir.

Due to its varied topography and varying climatic zones, India can offer all conceivable forms of adventure sports. You can enjoy these sports all round the year. Usually you don't need any special government permit, There are certain restricted areas where it is mandatory to obtain prior permission from the embassy, counsel, or high commission of India.