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The paragliding industry in Pokhara, which experienced significant disruption following the inauguration of Pokhara International Airport, is now experiencing a much-anticipated revitalization. A recent collaborative decision between the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) and the Nepal Airsports Association (NAA) to extend paragliding flight times by an hour and a half and reinstate the popular Kharpoudi landing site has ignited renewed optimism within the sector.
Entrepreneurs and paragliders alike are hopeful that this decision, particularly the return to the original landing location, will solidify Pokhara's reputation as a premier global paragliding destination.
Previously, with the operationalization of Pokhara International Airport, paragliding flights were relocated from Sarangkot and Toripani to Mandredhunga for security reasons, with landings shifted to Pame. This change had led to a period of stagnation for the paragliding business, posing considerable challenges for local entrepreneurs.
However, a new agreement dictates that takeoffs will now occur from Sarangkot, Toripani, and Bahakot, with landings returning to the familiar Khapaudi (End of Lake) site, as confirmed by NAA President Anil KC.
"The paragliding business faced incredibly challenging times and operational hurdles," explained KC. "The allure of Pokhara's skies seemed to diminish with the international airport's operation. It became difficult for us to sustain our businesses, and over 150 paragliding pilots were displaced."
According to President KC, paragliding services will now be available from 11:00 AM to 4:30 PM. He emphasized that this extended operational window provides both tourists and pilots with more time to fully appreciate the breathtaking scenic views of Fewa Lake and the majestic Annapurna mountain range. "This time extension will play a crucial role in increasing the number of flights and making the tourist experience even more exhilarating," he added.
Dhanraj Acharya, Mayor of Pokhara Metropolitan City, expressed his confidence that this timely decision, aligning with the ongoing Pokhara Visit Year 2025, will further bolster adventure tourism in the region. "This positive step will add momentum to Pokhara's tourism. While it may have come late, the demands of the business community have finally been addressed," he stated, adding that the reinstatement of the original landing site and extended flight times will undoubtedly attract more adventure-seeking tourists, thereby significantly enhancing Pokhara's overall tourism industry.
NAA President KC also revealed exciting plans, including the operation of solo paragliding and the organization of an international paragliding competition shortly.
Yogendra Kunwar, Head of Air Traffic Control at Pokhara International Airport, affirmed that landing rights at the old sites were granted in collaboration with CAAN, prioritizing sustainable tourism. "Safety remains our paramount concern," Kunwar stressed. "All companies and pilots are required to adhere to stringent safety standards to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for all tourists."
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