After A Long Awaiting: The Return Of Paragliding To Darjeeling

 Paragliding roars in the sky of Darjeeling and Kalimpong again:

The Return of Paragliding in Darjeeling

Seven years after being grounded, paragliding is set to take off once again in Darjeeling. The picturesque hill station, known for its stunning views and adventure activities, will welcome back paragliding enthusiasts with open arms. The revival of this exhilarating sport is spearheaded by the Gorkha Territorial Administration (GTA), aiming to boost adventure tourism in the region. The comeback is expected to happen in the latter part of this year, marking a significant milestone in the region’s tourism sector.

Paragliding was first introduced in Darjeeling in 2011 and quickly became a popular activity among tourists and locals alike. However, due to political unrest in the Gorkhaland region, the sport was put on hold in 2017. Now, with improved stability and efforts from the GTA, paragliding is making a much-anticipated return.

 Revival Efforts and Future Plans

The GTA is not only focused on reviving paragliding in Darjeeling but is also looking to enhance the adventure tourism infrastructure in nearby Kalimpong. This initiative includes improving facilities for paragliders and providing better training and safety measures. The administration is keen on ensuring that local residents benefit from these developments, creating job opportunities and reducing reliance on pilots from other states.

Registered adventure firms will be the only entities allowed to offer paragliding tours in both Darjeeling and Kalimpong. This move aims to ensure that only certified and experienced operators provide services, thereby enhancing safety and overall experience for tourists.

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 The Paragliding Experience in Darjeeling

Paragliding in Darjeeling offers breathtaking views of the region’s landscapes and iconic structures. The take-off point is from St. Paul's and the landing area is in Lebong. Depending on the weather conditions, the flight can last between fifteen to thirty minutes. The best time to enjoy paragliding in Darjeeling is from October to March, when the skies are typically clear, providing an unobstructed view of the majestic Kanchenjunga.

To support the sustainability and safety of the sport, the GTA plans to introduce annual fees for paragliding firms. These funds will be used for regular inspections, training, and other necessary activities to maintain high standards. Sherpa, a representative of the GTA, emphasised the importance of generating sufficient revenue to cover training costs and ensure that local talent is nurtured.

Enhancing Adventure Tourism in Kalimpong

While Darjeeling is gearing up to reintroduce paragliding, Kalimpong has been steadily providing a comparable experience. Paragliding in Kalimpong offers longer flights, ranging from 20 to 30 minutes, with prices set at Rs 5,500, inclusive of filming and photography. For shorter rides lasting 10 to 15 minutes, the cost is Rs 3,000, with an additional Rs 5,000 for photography and cinematography.

The popularity of paragliding in Kalimpong has been on the rise, and the GTA’s plans to improve infrastructure and facilities will further enhance the experience. The administration aims to attract more adventure enthusiasts to the region, contributing to the local economy and promoting sustainable tourism.

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 Safety and Training

Safety is a top priority for the GTA as they reintroduce paragliding in Darjeeling and enhance facilities in Kalimpong. Regular inspections and stringent safety measures will be implemented to ensure that all paragliding activities meet the highest standards. The GTA is also focusing on providing comprehensive training for local pilots, enabling them to conduct flights safely and professionally.

By investing in training and safety, the GTA aims to build a robust framework for adventure tourism. This initiative not only ensures the safety of tourists but also provides valuable skills and employment opportunities for local residents.

 Economic and Social Impact

The reintroduction of paragliding in Darjeeling and the enhancement of facilities in Kalimpong are expected to have a significant economic and social impact on the region. Adventure tourism is a growing sector, and the revival of paragliding will attract both domestic and international tourists. This influx of visitors will boost the local economy, creating jobs and supporting businesses.

Furthermore, by prioritising the involvement of local residents in the paragliding industry, the GTA is fostering a sense of community ownership and participation. This approach ensures that the benefits of tourism are distributed more equitably, contributing to the overall development of the region.