My first solo paragliding experience

Traveling solo was all fun and exciting till I realized that, more often than not, I ended up being lonely, lost without an itinerary, or simply bored. As a result, in starting of 2022, I decided to travel only in a group or go solo with a purpose.

One fine day in March 2022, I wanted a break from work and couldn't convince my friends to join, so I had to travel solo. My limitation was that I could only travel to Himachal/Uttarakhand.

Any location in the mountain was fine but finding a purpose was not easy. Eventually, after much thought and research, I discovered Paragliding courses in Bir Billing, a picturesque destination known for its stunning views and ideal sports conditions.

And within 15 days, it was a dream come true when I stepped off the edge of the cliff in Billing and soared through the skies on my glider. I thought I was signing up for a fun weekend activity, but little did I know I'd be flying through the skies solo!

The opportunity to experience solo paragliding firsthand was genuinely unforgettable. As I soared above the mountains and valleys, I was filled with exhilaration and awe that I will never forget.

About the paragliding course

After a whole night of research, I finally chose to go ahead with Skylark School of Paragliding, operated by Manu Sir. I couldn't have gone for a better course than this. A few details about the course:

Levels

P1, P2

Cost of the program

20,000 INR

Days required

7-10 days (do keep extra days as it can rain anytime in the mountains)

Total flights

Upto 5, depending upon the duration of the course and your skills (I did 3 flights as paragliding was banned for some time after that)

Course content

Ground Training

• Introduction to glider and equipment

• Forward / Alpine launch method

• Ground handling

• Directional control

Flight Training

• First hops (low-level flights)

• Maintaining course and airspeed

• Introducing turns

• Landing procedure

• Site assessment

• Soaring flights

• Planned approaches

• Active flying

• Rear riser turn

• Weight shift turns

• 180 degree & 360 degree turns

Theory & Examination

• Principles of flight

• Basic Meteorology

• Rules of the air

Training

Before I could embark on my solo paragliding adventure, I had to undergo rigorous training to learn the skills and techniques necessary to safely operate a paraglider.

During ground training, I learned about the basic principles of paragliding, including how to properly use and maintain their equipment, read weather conditions, and make basic repairs.

We were also taught about safety protocols and emergency procedures. We practiced setting up and launching our paragliders on flat ground. The initial few runs were challenging, and I ended with bruises, but it was worth it.

My solo paragliding experience

Billing take off site

I woke up early before the sun and got ready to reach the take-off site with fellow students and instructors. Within 45 min, we were at the take-off site of Billing, fully geared up with the harness, and opened up the glider.

As I stood at the edge of the take-off site at Billing, looking out at the vast expanse of sky before me, I couldn't help but feel a bit nervous. I had watched a few other pilots take off before me and saw the drop below them.

The thought of launching myself into the air on my own paraglider was both exciting and intimidating. But as I strapped on my gear and prepared for take-off, I felt a sense of determination wash over me.

I had worked hard to get to this point and was ready to take on the challenge. As I stepped off the edge and soared into the sky, I was filled with a sense of freedom and joy that I will never forget.

My first big solo flight has finally arrived. A few strides, and there I am, in the air, alone by myself! (well, a little bit on the radio anyway). I took the time to sit comfortably in my harness and enjoyed the extraordinary landscapes. To state the obvious, I did not have my phone/camera with me during the flight for my own safety :P So I don't have any pics/videos from the flight.

During the entire flight, my instructors were there to guide me by radio and reassure me ("more to the right," "aim for this point," etc.). After these few minutes in the air (yes, a first solo flight rarely lasts more than 10 minutes!), the ground came closer, and I landed terribly. After landing, every student needed to fold the glider on their own.

Final thoughts

My first solo paragliding experience was truly surreal. As I soared through the skies, the sense of freedom and exhilaration was like nothing I had ever experienced. It was a moment I will cherish forever, and I can't wait to do it again.

In fact, I plan to go for my next P3 course to continue improving my skills and exploring new heights. The decision to go for a solo trip with a purpose was the right one, and I will definitely do that from now on. It was indeed the best experience I have ever had.