Guide
What to wear and carry — the practical checklist
Most first-timers overdress or bring the wrong things. Here's what actually matters at altitude.
Clothing
- Long trousers — jeans or trekking pants; shorts get uncomfortable in the harness
- Closed shoes with grip — trekking shoes or sneakers; no sandals, heels or slip-ons
- A windproof layer — launch altitude is colder than the valley, even in warm months
- Layers you can remove — morning slots start cold, warm up fast
- Nothing loose that flaps — scarves, dupattas, open jackets create problems at launch
What to carry
- ID — some sites register passengers
- Small cash — parking, chai stalls, tips
- Water — flying sites are outdoors with limited shade
- Sunscreen and sunglasses — UV is stronger at altitude
- A charged phone — for photos after landing
What to leave behind
- Bags bigger than a small waist pouch — they don't fly with you
- Valuables that can fall — unsecured phones, loose jewellery, anything in open pockets
- Drones — most flying sites are restricted airspace or near-miss hazards
- A large camera setup — GoPros are the practical tool here
Seasonal notes
Winter (Dec–Feb): proper warmth — launch altitude in the morning is genuinely cold, and the wind chill in the air adds to it. Gloves help.
Summer (Mar–May): light layers, sun protection, more water. Monsoon: sites are closed — moot point.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear sandals for paragliding?
No — closed shoes with grip are required. Sandals come off at launch or slip during the landing jog.
Should I carry my phone during the flight?
Only if it's secured — zipped pocket or a strap. Operators usually advise against loose handheld phones at altitude.
Is it cold during the flight?
Colder than the valley floor — altitude plus wind chill. A light windproof layer handles it in most months; winter mornings want more.
Ready to fly?
Tell us your dates and location — we'll point you to the right experience.