Question 1

What is the best time to do paragliding in Kalimpong?

Accepted Answer

The kalimpong paragliding season does not last for very long in Kalimpong. Plan your travel from the month of April to June and October as during these months the weather is perfect for paragliding. Paragliding requires a light climate with clear sky and pleasant weather, during April to June and October you can find it all here in Kalimpong.
During the rest of the year the weather remains too hot, too cold or rainy, which will ruin your entire plan of paragliding. During the months from April to June the temperature remains 25-30 Degree Celsius which is favourable for paragliding in Kalimpong. Later during the year around October the temperature remains 20-25 degree Celsius with clear climate.

Question 2

How safe is paragliding in Kalimpong? Do I need a license?

Accepted Answer

While paragliding in Kalimpong you will be accompanied by an experienced and trained instructor of Paragliding, so you can be assured of your safety. It’s called a tandem paragliding where you and the guide will be secured in separate safety harnesses and the guide will control the full flight. It is suggested always to fly with a certified paragliding instructor. The Kalimpong paragliding gives you a beautiful view of the Himalayan range with the clear glimpse of Khangchendzonga valley.
The paragliding instructor and the paragliding agency need to have a license from the local authorities before conducting flying.

Question 3

Where do we take-off? And how is landing done?

Accepted Answer

There are two types of flight offered in Kalimpong for Paragliding, Medium (for 15 minutes) and High (for 30 minutes). The take-off point for both the flight remains same as Dello Hills but the landing point differs. Dello hill itself is an amazing spot as its one of the two hills where the town of Kalimpong begins. It’s situated at a height of 1704 metres which makes it a perfect spot for taking off. The take-off beings from the main road which is at a short distance from Dello viewpoint.
The landing points differ as: For Medium flight the landing point is at Homes Garden near the school Dr. Graham's Home, while for High flight the landing point is at Relli River ground further down.
Paragliding starting time is usually 09:00 A.M and closes at 04:30 P.M., but the time may vary as per the weather conditions. The usual take-off time during March to June is between 10:00 AM  to 12:00 PM. While, during October the shifts from 10:00 PM to 04:00 hours.

Question 4

How long can I stay up?

Accepted Answer

The flight time is different based on your choice, also there will be a price difference as well. You can choose between Medium and High flight option. Medium flight will make you stay up for around 15 minutes and will stay at a comparatively lower height, while if you go for the High flight then you can enjoy a flight time of around 30 minutes at a higher altitude and can explore better from a bird’s eye view.You can catch a view of snow-capped mountains of Khangchendzonga valley and small villages in it.  West-Sikkim hills can also be seen along with the beautiful scenery all around. 
If you book through Thrillophilia, you can avail the Medium fly option at INR 2499/ per person only and High fly or Cross country fly option at INR 4499/ per person only.

Question 5

In which language does the instructor will speak?

Accepted Answer

Thrillophilia makes sure that the instructors are well trained and well versed with English and Hindi language. Instructors will guide you about the safety and precautions in Hindi or English language, some instructors are known to the local language as well.
Make sure you are listening to the flight instructor while he is explaining you all the details for the flight. Also there will be written instructions given to you before the flight so you can read them out.

Question 6

What should I wear while paragliding in Kalimpong?

Accepted Answer

You are advised to wear light but warm clothes. Try to wear layers of light clothes like a warm shirt, trouser/ shorts, comfortable shoes and a nice windcheater to cover them. Heavy clothes will restrict your physical movements such as walking uphill. Avoid wearing slippers, sandals or floaters.
Do consider the weather condition of that area at that particular time. You must carry one identity proof along as it is mandatory.

Question 7

Is there any age and weight limit for paragliding in Kalimpong?

Accepted Answer

There is no certain age limit for Paragliding but your weight needs to be under 90 kilograms. People with body weight exceeding 90 kilograms are not allowed for Paragliding in Kalimpong. This adventure sport is advised to adults and grownups, infants and very young children are not recommended to take this.
Also, people who are having a health condition like asthma, heart problem, etc., are strictly prohibited from taking this adventure activity.

Question 8

Is there any chance of emergency landing while paragliding?

Accepted Answer

The instructors are well trained along with the certification, so there is a rare chance of having an emergency landing. However, if such a situation arises, the instructors are well-trained to do an emergency landing procedure.
You have to make sure that you are listening and following all the instructions during the flight and in case of an emergency so that the flight instructor can make sure of a safe emergency landing for you and himself.

Question 9

Where do I have to deposit my luggage while paragliding in Kalimpong?

Accepted Answer

You just need to carry some essential stuff for Paragliding like sport shoes, booking vouchers, sunscreen, etc. and rest you can leave in your hotel room. The cabs are easily available till the starting point of paragliding.

Question 10

If in any emergency will I be provided with a first aid box?

Accepted Answer

As per the government’s regulation the paragliding agencies must have the arrangement of a first aid box and the same is being followed. So you can rest assured that the first aid box will be available in time of need.