What are the Different Types of Paragliding in Solang Valley, Manali
Published: 19 Jul 2025
If you are planning to fly in Solang Valley, here’s something most people miss: not all paragliding flights are the same. There are actually different types, based on height, flight time and thrill level. Whether you’re a nervous first-timer or a full-on adrenaline junkie, knowing these options helps you choose the perfect experience. Some rides are short and sweet which are great for kids or cautious flyers while others take you high above the valley for jaw-dropping views of the Beas River, snow peaks and pine forests. Let’s break down the flight types so you know exactly what to expect before you book.
Types of Paragliding in Solang Valley Manali
Paragliding in Solang Valley is more than just a quick glide, it’s a full experience with options for every kind of flyer. Whether you are chasing views, short thrills or a peaceful float, there’s a type of flight designed just for you.
Here are different types offered in Solang Valley, Manali Paragliding adventure:
- Short Fly (Low Take-Off)
- High Fly (Jeep-Assisted Take-Off)
- Tandem Paragliding (With Trained Pilot)
- Winter Fly (Optional – Seasonal)
Type 1: Short Fly: The Quick and Easy Flight for First-Timers
The Short Fly is the most basic and beginner-friendly type of paragliding in Solang Valley. It’s a quick glide from a lower hill, perfect for people who just want to “try it out” without going too high. This flight gives you a gentle taste of flying without the big heights or long airtime.
You will be launched from a lower slope and land in the main valley field within 1–2 minutes. It’s fun, simple and safe.
How High Do You Go?
You fly at a height of 100 to 150 meters above the ground. That’s like the height of a tall building and is high enough to feel the thrill but low enough to stay calm.
Great for people who are afraid of heights!
How Long Is the Flight?
Flight time is about 1 to 2 minutes. It may sound short but that’s just enough to enjoy the wind, the view and the feeling of gliding through the sky.
It’s more of a smooth float than a long flight ideal for first-timers.
Who Should Try This?
The Short Fly is best for:
- Beginners who are nervous
- Children or teens (above age 14 usually)
- Elderly people who want to keep it light
- Families with mixed age groups
This is also perfect if you’re short on time or budget.
What’s the Take-Off Like?
The take-off point for Short Fly is close to the main Solang road. You usually walk a few steps uphill with your pilot and then take off together on a gentle slope.
No jeep ride needed. Easy and quick process.
Safety Info
You will be flying tandem with a certified pilot, who controls everything from start to landing. All equipment is checked before take-off.
Landing is done in a wide open grassy field, so it’s smooth and safe.
Real-Life Experience
“Did paragliding in Solang. It was a beautiful experience. The pilot was good. Had a 360 degree view of the Himalayas and Beas River.”Jatin Battra, Dehradun
— Jatin Battra, Dehradun (Tripadvisor review)
Type 2: High Fly: The Full Valley Experience
High Fly is the most thrilling and scenic paragliding option in Solang Valley,Manali. You launch from a much higher altitude, deep in the mountains after a short jeep ride. The flight gives you wide-angle views of snow peaks, pine forests and the Beas River. It’s a proper sky tour, not just a short glide.
How High Do You Go?
You fly at an approximate height of 500–600 meters above the ground. This means you’re soaring well above the valley floor with nothing but air between you and the mountains. It feels exciting but surprisingly calm.
How Long Is the Flight?
The flight duration is around 10 to 15 minutes, depending on wind conditions and your launch point. It gives you time to relax in the air, take photos and fully enjoy the experience.
Who Should Try This?
This flight is ideal for:
- Adventure lovers
- Couples looking for a shared thrill
- Repeat flyers ready for the next level
- Anyone who wants the “real” paragliding experience
If you are comfortable with heights and want more than just a taste, this is the one to book.
What’s the Take-Off Like?
You will take a jeep ride up a winding trail to the high-altitude launch site. The take-off is from a mountain slope with wide open space. Your pilot guides you to run a few steps and then you lift off into the sky.
Safety Info
Like all paragliding in Solang Valley, High Fly is tandem only, with a trained and licensed pilot controlling everything. You are securely strapped in with a helmet, harness and reserve parachute. Pre-flight checks are strict, and emergency landing spots are marked.
Real-Life Experience
“It was a beautiful paragliding experience at Solang Valley. The team of pilots who help you paraglide high in the sky are skilled and experts. They make you feel comfortable.”JuhiS168, New Delhi
— JuhiS168, New Delhi (TripAdvisor review)
Multiple flyers describe it as peaceful and quiet, not scary, more like floating than falling.
Type 3 Tandem Paragliding: Fly with an Expert Pilot
Tandem paragliding means flying with a trained pilot who handles everything from take-off, flight control and landing. You are securely strapped into a harness in front while the pilot is behind you, steering the glider.
It’s the most popular type in Solang Valley, perfect for first-timers who want the thrill without needing any flying skills.
How High Do You Go?
The height varies depending on your flight package:
- Short Fly: 100–150 meters
- High Fly: 500–600 meters
But regardless of height, you will feel like a bird in the sky. The pilot may even perform a few gentle spins (if you’re comfortable).
How Long Is the Flight?
Tandem flight durations in Solang Valley are:
- Short Fly: 2–3 minutes
- High Fly: 10–15 minutes
- Super High Fly (on request): Up to 25 minutes
Wind conditions and location affect timing slightly.
Who Should Try This?
Tandem paragliding is great for beginners and even kids (age 12+):
- No training or prior experience needed
- Ideal for tourists, families and couples
- A must-do for Instagram-worthy photos and videos
- Best for those who want a stress-free flying experience
What’s the Take-Off Like?
You will start with a light run down a gentle slope alongside your pilot. In seconds, the glider catches the wind and lifts you into the sky. No jumping or sharp drops, just a smooth, floating start.
Safety Info
This is the safest paragliding option in Solang Valley. Why?
- All pilots are licensed and certified
- Safety gear includes helmet, harness and backup parachute
- Gear is inspected before every flight
- Weight and wind are checked to ensure safe flying conditions
Tip: Always book with a registered operator and avoid agents who skip safety steps.
Real-Life Experience
As soon as I was in the air, I was thrilled I guess… I could see all the tiny people and vehicles down there… The pilot was kind. He was constantly checking whether I was ok.”First-time flyer from Dehradun
— First-time flyer from Dehradun, review shared on MyGirlypedia
Type 4: Winter Fly (Optional): Snowy Skies Adventure
Winter Fly is a special paragliding experience offered only during winter months usually from late December to February, depending on weather and snow cover. Solang Valley becomes a white wonderland and gliding over the snowy landscape feels like flying through a Himalayan snow globe.
It’s not always available which makes it rare and more thrilling for those who catch the right timing.
How High Do You Go?
The height is usually similar to the Short Fly or slightly lower than the High Fly, because strong winds and freezing conditions often limit elevation. Still, you will lift off from snowy slopes and get an amazing aerial view of snow-covered peaks and pine forests.
Approximate elevation: 300–500 meters, depending on safety and weather.
How Long Is the Flight?
The flight lasts 5 to 8 minutes. It may be a bit shorter due to cold winds and limited visibility but the views are unique and you see frozen streams, snow-dusted treetops and the gleaming white slopes of Solang Valley.
Who Should Try This?
Perfect for:
- Winter vacationers
- People looking for a rare paragliding experience
- Tourists visiting during Christmas or New Year
- Snow lovers and photographers
Important Note: It’s not ideal for first-timers who are sensitive to cold or nervous about slippery take-offs.
What’s the Take-Off Like?
Take-off happens on snow-covered slopes, often needing more careful steps. You wear snow boots or winter-friendly gear and the ground crew helps steady you. Since it’s a tandem flight, your pilot ensures everything runs smoothly.
Sometimes flights are launched from slightly lower altitudes if snow makes jeep travel risky.
Safety Info
Winter flights are always weather-dependent and usually offered only by top operators with proper winter gear and trained pilots. You’ll wear:
- Extra-warm jackets and gloves
- A thermal harness (if available)
- Snow boots or grip-based shoes
Flights may be canceled or delayed due to strong winds, fog or snowfall, so flexibility is key.
Real-Life Experience
“I had never expected that paragliding could be done on snow covered mountains and valleys too. My experience was unforgettable… Mountains, valleys, rivers and snow look completely different from the sky.”Ridhvi Jain, Delhi
— Ridhvi Jain, Delhi (Discover Kullu Manali)
Why High Fly Stands Out as the Best Paragliding Type in Solang Valley
When you ask reviewers, especially those on TripAdvisor, many people point to High Fly as the ultimate way to truly experience Solang Valley from the sky. You can just imagine you are high enough to see the people like ants on the ground but not high enough to be frozen by coolness. High fly is always worth paying the price for paragliding in Solang valley.
Many of the reviews perfectly sum it up: High Fly delivers panoramic Himalayan views, longer flight time and an elegant, smooth glide for maximum thrill.
Real-World Praise from Adventure Bloggers:
Adventure guides and local stories also emphasize that High Fly gives the most rewarding balance of view, airtime and serenity. In posts like “Soaring High: My Paragliding Adventure in Manali’s Solang Valley”, travelers describe 6–7 minute flights that felt like eternity, offering a rush of adrenaline followed by peaceful soaring over forests and rivers.
Cost Comparison: Solang Valley Paragliding Options
Wondering how much each flight type costs in Solang Valley, Manali? Here are the real prices from trusted operators, including short fly and high fly:
Short Fly (Low Take‑Off)
- Price: ₹1,000–₹1,300 per person
- Flight Time: Approximately 1–2 minutes
- Best For: First-time flyers, kids and budget seekers
High Fly (Jeep‑Assisted or Ropeway Take‑Off)
- Price: ₹3,000-₹4000 per person (ropeway included)
- Flight Time: Approximately 10–15 minutes
- Best For: Adventure lovers and views seekers
Tandem Fly (if available)
- Price: ₹2,500–₹3,200 depending on operator & inclusion of ropeway
- Flight Time: Around 4–6 minutes
- Best For: That in‑between experience, not too short, not full high fly
Winter Fly (Optional – Seasonal)
- Price Range: Around ₹3,500 (subject to seasonal availability; not listed year-round)
- Flight Time: Typically 5–8 minutes
- Best For: Snow lovers visiting in winter months (Dec–Feb)
How to Book Paragliding in Solang Valley (Step-by-Step)
Booking your paragliding adventure in Solang Valley is simple. You can either book online with verified operators or go for on-the-spot bookings at the valley. Here’s a clear and beginner-friendly process to help you:
1. Decide Your Fly Type
Choose from:
- Short Fly – Budget and beginner-friendly
- High Fly – Scenic and thrilling
- Tandem Fly – Always with a trained pilot
- Winter Fly – For snowy-season flyers (Dec to Feb)
2. Choose Your Booking Method
There are two options you can go for:
Option 1: Online Booking (Recommended in Peak Season)
- Visit trusted websites like:
- Select your fly type, date and package (with or without video)
- Pay a small advance (₹300–₹500) or full amount
- Get a confirmation call or WhatsApp message with meeting point and time
Option 2: On-the-Spot Booking (Best in Off Season)
- Reach Solang Valley base camp between 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM
- Walk up to certified paragliding counters or ask your hotel for a referral
- Choose a package, pay on the spot (cash or UPI accepted)
Pro Tip: Always ask for a certified operator with HP Tourism registration. Avoid random touts.
3. Confirm Weather & Timing
- Check same-day weather: paragliding happens only in clear, dry and low-wind conditions
- Best time slots: Morning (8:30 AM to 11:30 AM)
- If weather turns bad, operators either reschedule or refund
4. Get Ready & Show Up!
- Wear comfortable clothes and sports shoes
- Bring sunglasses, light gloves (in winter)and a phone holder if needed
- Reach at least 30 minutes early
- Sign safety forms and meet your pilot
5. Enjoy Your Flight!
- Your pilot will guide you through safety tips
- Tandem flights mean you don’t need to control anything
- Fly free, enjoy the views and don’t forget to smile for the GoPro 😄
📞 Bonus: Local Contact Numbers for Bookings
| Operator | Phone Number |
| Solang Valley Sports Center | +91-70180 45789 |
| Adventure Manali Hub | +91-98050 42998 |
| Manali Adventure Club | +91-98050 71773 |
(Note: Numbers taken from verified websites as of July 2025)
Conclusion
Paragliding in Solang Valley isn’t just an activity, it’s a memory you will carry for life. Whether you are a first-timer or a thrill-seeker, there’s a flying style made just for you.
- Want a quick, affordable experience? Go for the Short Fly.
- Love heights and long scenic flights? The High Fly is your dream ride.
- New to flying and want a pro by your side? Choose Tandem Paragliding.
- Visiting in winter? Don’t miss the magical Winter Fly.
Each type gives you a different view of the stunning Solang Valley from snowy peaks to river beds, forests to farmland. No matter which you choose, you will leave with butterflies in your stomach and a huge smile on your face. So… are you ready to fly?
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Here are frequently asked questions about types of solang valley paragliding:
The best time is April to June and October to early December, when the skies are clear, winds are stable and temperatures are ideal for flying. Winter Fly is also available from December to February but only when weather permits.
High Fly is the most recommended option. It offers longer flight time (8–15 minutes), stunning aerial views of the Beas River and snow-covered peaks, and a thrilling jeep-assisted take-off.
Most operators allow ages 12 and above to participate in tandem paragliding. Children below 18 must have parental consent. Weight restrictions (usually 30–90 kg) also apply.
Prices vary:
- Short Fly: ₹1,000–₹1,500
- High Fly: ₹3,000–₹3,500
- Tandem Fly: ₹2,500–₹3,500
- Winter Fly: ₹3,000+ (when available)
Prices may change based on season and package add-ons (photos, video, etc.).
Yes, it is generally safe. All flights are done with trained and certified pilots. Equipment is regularly checked and the take-off/landing areas are managed by professionals. Always choose a licensed operator with good reviews.
- Short Fly: 2–3 minutes
- High Fly: 8–15 minutes
- Tandem Fly: 5–10 minutes
Flight time may vary slightly depending on wind conditions.
No training is needed for tandem flights, which are the most common type in Solang. A licensed pilot flies with you and controls everything, making it suitable even for first-timers.
- Booking point: Main road near Solang Base Camp
- High Fly take-off: Mountaintop via jeep ride
- Landing point: Open field near the riverbed
The full journey includes a short hike or jeep ride depending on the flight type.
Yes! Most operators offer GoPro video and photo packages (₹300–₹500 extra). You can carry a small action camera, but only with a secure mount or pilot permission for safety reasons.
You can book on the spot at Solang Base Camp, through your hotel, or via local adventure agencies. Some operators also accept online bookings through platforms like TripAdvisor or Peek.
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- Be Respectful
- Stay Relevant
- Stay Positive
- True Feedback
- Encourage Discussion
- Avoid Spamming
- No Fake News
- Don't Copy-Paste
- No Personal Attacks
