All About Paragliding in Srinagar | Best for Adventurous Souls

Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir, experiences an influx of tourists year-round. People visiting Kashmir for honeymoon surely spend a few nights in the houseboats at Dal Lake, while others explore the other parts of this beautiful place. 

Tourists must be aware that paragliding is among the most popular things to do in Srinagar and if you didn’t try this adrenaline-pumping sport on your trip to Srinagar, then you’re missing out on a whole lot of fun in life. 

Let’s explore the best Paragliding Places in Srinagar

Here’s how you can make the bookings and have an adventurous and fun-filled paragliding in Srinagar experience. After a short 1 hour drive you can easily reach this spot and gear up to fly high in the clear blue sky!

To get to Astanmarg, a popular spot for paragliding in Srinagar, you can either drive or book a taxi from the city area.

On your journey, you can enjoy picturesque views of Srinagar, which gradually leads to the foothills. 

Following that, a brief hike or drive will bring you to the Astanmarg summit, the location for the paragliding in Srinagar operations.

What’s the paragliding cost in Srinagar in Astanmarg?

If you are opting to go paragliding in Srinagar then be ready to spend approximately 2,500-3,500/- INR. However, these prices may vary, according to the season and the time of booking.

Located only 44 minutes away from the home of Dal Lake, Harwan Dhara offers various other adventure sports options alongside paragliding. 

You can try hiking, and trekking, and discover hidden glacier water spots here.

It forms a segment of the bigger Harwan region, attracting visitors with its picturesque allure and calm atmosphere.

Harwan Dhara can be reached by car from Srinagar. Tourists have the option to book a cab or board a regional bus to get there. 

The drive offers breathtaking scenic vistas of the Kashmir Valley, transforming the trip into a pleasant adventure.

What’s the paragliding cost in Srinagar in Harwan Dhara?

Similar to the paragliding cost in Astanmarg, you can expect to spend anywhere between 2,650 to 3,200/- per person for paragliding in Srinagar in Harwan Dhara.

Why is paragliding in Srinagar so popular?

Breathtaking views: Kashmir is a popular paragliding destination in India, and Srinagar, in particular, has gained major popularity. Especially for the breathtaking views of the lush green pastures, an opportunity to glide over the gigantic Dal Lake spotted with multi-colored houseboats, and gathering bird’s eye vistas of the vibrant bustling markets.

Easy Accessibility: The best spots for paragliding in Srinagar are located just an hour’s drive from the main city, making it easily accessible by car and other public transport.

Sightseeing Opportunities: Srinagar, being the capital of Kashmir offers numerous opportunities for sightseeing and has many amazing places to visit. Tourists often find it worthwhile to visit this city and go paragliding in Srinagar, as it is a complete experience.

Safety and Security: Operators offering paragliding in Srinagar, are highly trained, and skilled and use the best-in-class adventure sports gear for paragliding, making it an extremely safe experience for the tourists. 

Some important things to consider when visiting paragliding places in Srinagar

• Best season: The best time for paragliding in Srinagar is during the summer months, from April to September. This period offers ideal weather conditions with clear skies and mild winds, which are crucial for a safe and enjoyable paragliding experience.

• Duration: The duration of paragliding in Srinagar is around 1 hour, these 60 minutes include everything from briefing to flying. The airtime is approximately 15-20 minutes. 

• Clothing: During paragliding, you will be sailing at a height of over 2000 feet, therefore the temperatures are bound to fall, make sure you dress appropriately and wear comfortable clothes. 

• Medical Concerns: In case you have any medical issues like heart problems, asthma, pregnancy, vertigo, or dizziness, refrain from paragliding in Srinagar. It can be quite risky for people with medical concerns to take up this sport. 

• Book in Advance: As paragliding in Srinagar is fairly popular, it is advisable to book your slots in advance to ensure availability and avoid disappointment.

• Book with a Professional: With the gaining fame of paragliding in Srinagar, many novice paragliding operators have come up. Ensure you book with a seasoned and experienced operator and listen to all the instructions given by your pilot.

Other fascinating places to visit in Srinagar which are a no-miss

• Dal Lake: Spend a few hours, calmly floating across the beautiful Dal Lake, you will be greeted by various vendors selling coffee, fruits, accessories, kebabs, maggies, and much more on your boat ride.Stay the night at one of the houseboats on Dal Lake, this is one of the major attractions and things to do in Srinagar.
• Shankaracharya Temple: Visit the ancient site of the Shankaracharya temple, the hike to this historic temple, dedicated to lord Shiva is full of mesmerising views and will give you lots of insights into the history of Kashmir.

• Mughal Gardens: Of all the things to do in Kashmir, visiting its immaculate and manicured Mughal gardens is the best.Located close to the Dal Lake area, these step gardens truly display the Mughal grandeur and royalty. 
• Hazratbal Shrine: Revered as the holiest shrine in all of Kashmir, the Hazratbal Shrine is believed to house a relic that is said to be the hair of the prophet Mohammed.The peaceful ambiance and intricate architecture of this structure attract tourists from far and wide.
• Pari Mahal: Also referred to as the “Palace of Fairies,” this historical landmark provides breathtaking vistas of Dal Lake and the adjacent mountains. It combines elements of Islamic and Persian architectural styles.
• Jama Masjid: Situated at the core of Srinagar, this mosque is recognized for its unique Indo-Saracenic design and serene environment. It holds great importance as a place of worship for Muslims in the area.

• Nigeen Lake: For a less bustling and touristy experience, head to Nigeen Lake. It is quieter and calmer as compared to Dal Lake, perfect for a relaxing retreat.
• Wular Lake: Wular Lake, one of Asia’s biggest freshwater lakes, is perfect for activities like boating, water sports, and observing birds. It’s surrounded by mountains and provides a soothing natural setting.
• Tulip Garden: After feeling the thrill of paragliding in Srinagar, do experience the mesmerising beauty of thousands of tulip flowers in the Tulip Garden.This is Asia’s largest tulip garden, and opens during the spring season, showcasing a vibrant display of tulips of various colours and varieties
• Floating Market: When on a boat ride in Dal Lake, don’t forget to stop by and check out some amazing merchandise and handcrafted goods sold by Kashmiri artisans at the floating market in Dal Lake.From saffron, fresh flowers, fruits, and vegetables to wooden handicrafts, you can get it all here.

Srinagar also has some of the best places for shopping in Kashmir

• Lal Chowk: Best for hand-embroidered Kashmiri suits.

• Polo View Market: Best for handcrafted top-quality original Pashmina Shawls and Paper mache items.

• Kashmiri Government Art Emporiums: Best for Pashmina Shawls, Saffron, Dry Fruits, and Spices.

• Badshah Chowk: Best for Kashmiri Carpets and Rugs
• Zaina Kadal Road: Best for Traditional Kashmiri Jewellery, Coin Jewelry, and Antique items.

Last but not least, do try some of the best Kashmiri Delicacies when on a paragliding in Srinagar expedition. Kashmiri Kehwa, Kashmiri Zafrani Pulao, Kashmiri Sweet Naan, Roghan Josh, and Kashmiri Dum Aloo are a must-try.