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Description
Sarangkot (1500m ASL) is the premier paragliding site in Nepal, located in the Annapurna region, just 20 minutes from Pokhara city, on the northern side of Phewa Lake. The takeoff area is accessible by car, making it unique in the region. The height difference from takeoff to landing is 700 meters.
This site is highly frequented, with 75% of all logged flights in Nepal originating here. It offers a reliable and versatile flying experience, suitable for acro, SIV, D-Bag, thermalling, and cross-country (XC) flights. The infrastructure is well-developed, and the views of the Himalayas are spectacular.
The region is known for its excellent XC potential:
- West: Along the lake valley.
- North: To the foothills of 8000m peaks like the Annapurnas and Machapuchare.
- East: Along the Himalayan foothills.
The climate is humid subtropical, with a yearly mean temperature of 20 degrees Celsius. The best flying conditions are from October to May, although the monsoon season from June to August is generally not flyable.
Pokhara, the second-largest city in Nepal, is situated beside a beautiful lake and offers stunning views of towering mountains, including three peaks over 8000m. The weather conditions are perfect for flying, consistent and gentle, making it suitable for both beginners and acro pilots. Flights are possible almost every day except during the monsoon season.
For more information, you can visit:
- [Just Acro - Pokhara](http://justacro.com/startplaces/nepal/pokhara)
- [Nepal Paragliding](http://www.nepal-paragliding.com)
- [Parahawking](http://www.parahawking.com)
- [Blue Sky Paragliding](http://www.paragliding-nepal.com)
Takeoff is located on the side of the road from Pokhara to Sarangkot. Follow the paragliders and birds to find it. There are three landing sites along the Phewa Lake shore: Lakeside Pokhara, Greenwall, and at the foot of Sarangkot.
Taxis from Pokhara Lakeside and various landing sites are available, and most paragliding companies offer a 4x4 service to drive up to the takeoff point.
The weather is generally stable with daily thermals, although the monsoon season from May to October can bring rain and waterlogged fields.
To fly here, you need a civil aviation permit, which costs $50 plus 13% VAT for 15 days, and $25 plus 13% VAT for any additional 15 days. Permits can be obtained at the Pokhara Airport Manager’s office.
For safety, respect the airspace restrictions: do not cross the lake midpoint, do not overfly the town or Lakeside, and adhere to the operational hours, which start after 10:00 a.m. due to the Pokhara-Jomsom flight path.
Pilots must have a flying license, insurance, and a minimum APPI Solo Pilot certification (Para Pro III Level). Tandem pilots need a valid tandem license and third-party liability insurance for passengers. Commercial tandem flights require an Air Operation Certificate (AOC).
For more details on regulations and permits, visit:
- [Nepal Paragliding](http://www.nepal-paragliding.com)
- [Parahawking](http://www.parahawking.com)
Transport to Sarangkot is available via paragliding jeeps three times a day for Rs 200, or by taxi for Rs 600.
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