Paragliding returns to original site in Pokhara

KATHMANDU: Pokhara’s renowned paragliding industry, once disrupted by the operation of the Pokhara International Airport, is now showing signs of revival.

A recent decision by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) and Nepal Air Sports Association (NAA) to allow flights to land again at the popular Khapaundi site has brought renewed hope to pilots and tourism entrepreneurs.

The decision also includes extending the daily flying time to 1.5 hours, which industry insiders believe will help re-establish Pokhara as a world-class paragliding destination.

After the opening of the international airport, flights from Sarangkot and Toripani were relocated to Mandredhunga for takeoff and to Pame for landing, citing safety concerns.

This shift severely impacted the paragliding business, leading to economic strain and the displacement of over 150 tandem pilots.

Now, with the reinstatement of takeoff from Sarangkot and Toripani and landing at Khapaundi, stakeholders are optimistic. “Previously, operating flights was extremely difficult. The skies of Pokhara had lost their charm. But this decision has reignited hope,” said NAA President Anil KC.

According to him, flights will now operate daily from 11:00 AM to 4:30 PM, giving tourists and pilots more time to enjoy breathtaking views of Phewa Lake and the Annapurna range. “This extended time will boost flight numbers and enhance the overall tourist experience,” he added.

Pokhara Mayor Dhanraj Acharya welcomed the move, especially as it aligns with the ongoing Visit Pokhara Year 2025. “Though delayed, this decision addresses long-standing demands of entrepreneurs. It will bring momentum back to Pokhara’s adventure tourism,” he stated.

KC further revealed plans to introduce solo paragliding flights and host international paragliding competitions in the near future.

Yogendra Kunwar, Chief of Air Traffic Control at Pokhara International Airport, emphasized that the decision was made in collaboration with CAAN to promote sustainable tourism. “Safety remains our top priority. All companies and pilots must strictly adhere to safety protocols,” he stressed.

Visit Pokhara 2025 Coordinator Gopi Bahadur Bhattarai highlighted the importance of increasing tourism activities and ensuring connectivity with China and India. “Paragliding, a signature of Pokhara’s beauty, must never be displaced again,” he remarked.

On May 21, 2025, NAA conducted a specialized technical training for pilots, focusing on airspace discipline, safety, and protocols.

According to NAA General Secretary Balram Acharya, the training also included the use of GPS and modern technologies for safer, well-managed flights. Trainers included Technical Vice President Vijay Gautam, national athlete Bimal Adhikari, and lead trainer Yogesh Bahadur Bhattarai.

The integration of GPS and updated regulations has significantly improved safety and management in the sport. Senior Vice President Khemraj Acharya noted, “With natural beauty, improved rules, and ambitious tourism strategies, Pokhara is set to become a must-visit hub for adventure tourism in 2025 and beyond.”

According to Acharya, the paragliding industry holds around NPR 1 billion in investments, with 59 registered companies and over 400 certified tandem pilots. Although 150 professionals were displaced following the relocation, around 250 are currently active.

Previously, Pokhara saw between 500 to 1,500 flights daily. However, post-relocation constraints had drastically limited flight numbers, hurting the livelihoods of many.