If you’ve never flown before, the idea of jumping off a mountain strapped to a stranger and a piece of fabric can feel a little intimidating. Fair enough. But here’s the truth: thousands of complete beginners fly safely in Manali every season, and most of them say the same thing when they land — “I wish I’d done that sooner.
If you’re booking your first tandem flight with Indian Para Association, here’s exactly what your day will look like, step by step.
1. Arrival and Check-In
You’ll check in at our counter near the Green Tax Barrier in Kalath, Manali. Our team will confirm your package, take basic details, and give you a short safety briefing. This is also when weather and wind conditions are assessed — paragliding is entirely weather-dependent, so timings can shift by an hour or two if conditions aren’t ideal. This isn’t us being cautious for no reason; it’s the single biggest factor in a safe, smooth flight.
2. Gearing Up
You’ll be fitted with a harness over your clothes and a helmet. No special clothing is required, though closed shoes and something warm (a light jacket) are recommended, since it gets cooler at altitude. Your pilot will clip in with you, and at this point, you’re essentially harnessed to someone who has flown this exact site hundreds of times.
3. The Takeoff
This is the part most first-timers worry about most — and it’s over in about five seconds. Your pilot will guide you through a short run downhill as the wing fills with air and lifts you both off the ground. You don’t need to jump, sprint, or do anything dramatic. Just walk (then run briefly) when your pilot tells you to, and the wing does the rest.
4. The Flight
Once you’re airborne, everything changes. The ground noise disappears, the harness becomes like a comfortable seat, and you’re gliding rather than falling. Depending on your package, you’ll spend anywhere from 7 minutes to well over 20 minutes in the air, taking in views of the Solang Valley and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. Your pilot controls the wing throughout — steering, speed, and altitude are entirely in their hands, so you’re free to just look around and enjoy it.
If you’ve booked a package with GoPro footage, this is when it’s captured — so you’ll have proof for everyone back home who didn’t believe you’d actually do it.
5. Landing
Landing is usually smoother than takeoff. Your pilot will line up the approach, and you’ll typically land on your feet with a short walk-out, sometimes a gentle slide if conditions call for it. Either way, it’s controlled and calm — not the dramatic crash-landing your imagination might be picturing.
What First-Timers Usually Feel
- Before takeoff: nerves, adrenaline, maybe a bit of “why did I agree to this”
- During takeoff: a rush, then surprise at how quickly it settles
- Mid-flight: calm, quiet, and often described as “peaceful” rather than scary
- After landing: relief, excitement, and almost always — wanting to go again
Tips for Your First Flight
- Eat light beforehand. A heavy meal right before flying isn’t ideal; something small an hour or two prior is best.
- Wear closed-toe shoes. Sandals or flip-flops aren’t suitable for takeoff and landing.
- Bring a jacket, even in summer. It’s noticeably cooler in the air than on the ground.
- Don’t overthink the harness. It’s designed to hold your full body weight securely — you’re not “holding on,” you’re sitting in it.
- Trust your pilot. They’ve done this far more times than you can imagine. Your only job is to enjoy the view.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need any prior experience? No. Tandem paragliding requires no experience at all — your pilot handles the flying while you enjoy the ride.
Is it normal to feel scared before the flight? Completely normal. Most first-timers feel nervous before takeoff and completely at ease once airborne.
What if I’m afraid of heights? Many people who are afraid of heights actually enjoy paragliding, since there’s no ledge or edge — the ground simply falls away gradually as you glide.
Can I bring my phone or camera? It’s best to keep hands free during takeoff and landing. If you want footage, opt for a package with GoPro recording included instead of holding a device yourself.
What should I wear? Comfortable clothing you can move in, closed-toe shoes, and a light jacket. Avoid loose scarves or anything that could get caught in the harness.
Ready to try it for yourself? Book your first tandem flight with Indian Para Association and see the Himalayas from a view you’ll never forget.
