How about treating yourself to a bird’s-eye view of the countryside? Yes, we are talking of paragliding which is fast becoming the preferred competitive and recreational aero-sport for many. A paraglider consists of a canopy (the wing) constructed from special nylon fabric from which the pilot is suspended by sturdy lines called risers, while he/she is strapped to a harness. In India, there are several flying schools and adventure clubs which provide both basic and advanced courses.

Gliders who love this sport vouch for the unparalleled thrill of flying high. Says Anita Deshpande, instructor and co-owner of Temple Pilots, a 14-year-old flight training school based in Pune that’s also been recognised by the Aero Club of India: “There is an element of risk involved in all adventure sports, but if you are prepared to learn paragliding the correct way and stick to the rules, you’ll be fine”.

The key words for paragliding are: gain control, obey instructions and use certified equipment. Deshpande adds: “Paragliding is more about finesse and technique of control and less about strength and adrenaline. It requires mental alertness more than physical conditioning.”

In India, you can go paragliding in the Western Ghats in Maharashtra. Alternatively, you can try the hills down south or the steep slopes of Himachal. Check out the hotspots where you can go for a paragliding vacation this summer.

KAMSHET, MAHARASHTRA

This is one of the best paragliding sites in Western India and is an hour’s drive from Pune. Kamshet is known for its picturesque landscape that’s especially suited for paragliding with its rolling hills (Western Ghats), rivers, lakes and little villages. It has great flying weather and the flying season goes from November to June. Kamshet is full of sites which are great for take-offs and landings. In summer the favourites are Shelar (mainly agricultural fields), Pavna (which overlooks the Pavna Lake) and Shindewadi (perfect for beginners). In winter, gliders prefer Tower Hill because it has lesser slopes.

» Hot ticket!

Temple Pilots is offering a 3-day introductory course in Kamshet where you can learn to fly. The cost for a weekend course is Rs 9,800 per person and a weekday course (from Monday to Wednesday) is Rs 8,500 per person. Fees include theory, training and the equipment used. You can also opt for a two-seater joyride (tandem paragliding) with an experienced pilot. No training or experience is required for this. Cost Rs 2,000 for a 15-minute flight. You can check in at any hotel or resort in Kamshet.

BIR AND BILLING, HIMACHAL pradesh

While Billing is the meadow from where you take off, Bir is a small village where you land. Billing lies at an altitude of 8,600ft and is sheltered by the Dhauladhar Ranges, while Bir is accessible by road from both Mandi and Dharamshala (16km from Dharamshala). The best time for paragliding in Bir and Billing is from March till June before the monsoons begin and then again from September till November.

» Hot ticket!

A 3-night and 4-day package ex-Dharamshala by Delhi-based India Adventure Holidays costs Rs 17,500 on twin sharing basis. It includes accommodation in a deluxe hotel in Dharamshala, breakfast and dinner, sightseeing, a visit to the Baijnath Temple and transfers in a non-airconditioned vehicle. Paragliding charges are Rs 2,500 for 20 minutes, Rs 4,500 for 50 minutes and Rs 5,000 for an hour. This package is valid till the end of June and includes the cost of training.

YELAGIRI, TAMIL NADU

Yelagiri (about 240km from Chennai) has all the ingredients that make it the hotspot for paragliding — beautiful landscapes and a salubrious climate through the year. The altitude of 2,000ft above ground level makes it ideal for take-offs. Flyers generally flock to the green hills of Yelagiri between June and September.

» Hot ticket!

Temple Pilots also have a Yelagiri flying course which consists of a 4-day introductory course for Rs 15,000 and a 4-day advanced course for Rs 16,500. The package is valid till August 2010 and excludes accommodation, meals and air/rail fares.

MUNNAR, KERALA

If you are not a sun, sea and backwaters person, you can try paragliding in Munnar in the Idukki district of Kerala come September. Its breathtaking landscape of mountains and rolling plantations provide the ideal backdrop for paragliding. The site is perfect for easy take-offs and landings what with its expansive landscape.

» Hot ticket!

Thrillophilia Adventures, a Bangalore-based adventure travel company is offering a paragliding course in Munnar. The basic course costs Rs 15,000 per person for four days which includes deluxe accommodation, all meals and training charges. The package is valid from September to May.