Introduction
Paragliding is a popular adventure sport that calls out to all those people who want to feel an adrenaline rush in their system and give us a sense of freedom has they are flying in skies like those of the eagles. It was first introduced in the 1990s in India, and since then, it has been one of the most attractive sports for thrill lovers across the country.
Kamshet is in Pune (district), Maharashtra, a hill station about 110 km from Mumbai and 45 km from Pune. Paragliding was first introduced in Kamshet in the late 1995s and since then there was no looking back on the growth of the sport’s field.
I would like to mention seven things that one should know about Kamshet and Paragliding in Kamshet before going there.
Everything You Need to Know:
- LOCATION
Kamshet is on the Western Ghat, or the Sahyadri Mountain range, about 670 meters above the sea level. It lies in a reachable distance from the cities of Pune and Mumbai. It is in the middle of green valleys, small villages, beautiful lakes, and a picturesque view. Being located on the Western Ghats makes this a breathtaking, once-in-a-lifetime paragliding location suitable for those who like to enjoy Nature’s beauty and get lost in its green arms.
- WEATHER
It has a warm weather, mostly excluding the humidity of the summer months, for whole of the year, with medium level of rainfall from June to September. The wind blows at an average speed of 15.2 kilometers per hour, except in the monsoon months when the speed of the wind is above average around 18.5 kilometers per hour. The average speed of wind for such a long season makes it highly suitable for flying for more months in comparison to other locations.
- PARAGLIDING SCHOOLS
It is home to a few top paragliding schools in India with licenses, and the long flying season has helped it to achieve this. The courses available are taught by instructors who give safety their priority and provide you with comprehensive training. There are courses for every level of learner, from a novice to an intermediate student.
- BEST TIME TO VISIT
The best time to visit Kamshet lies between the months of October and March, which is a long flying season. One should avoid going there in the summer, as it is very humid and dry during the season, which might make one tired quickly. The rainy season should also be avoided, as it’s not safe to paraglide in the rain and the speed of the wind is more in those months, which might be dangerous.
- DIFFERENT TYPES OF TANDEM FLIGHT
Tandem flight in paragliding is the kind where the person flies with a instructor so that they can enjoy the view with peace of mind. There are three types of tandem flights in paragliding is Kamshet:
- Joy Tandem: It is the kind of tandem flight where the instructor does everything and the person riding can enjoy the beautiful view. This is suitable for total beginners and for those who prefer to sit back and enjoy.
- Instructional Tandem: This type of tandem flight is suitable for those who are in the intermediate levels of their paragliding course. In this, the rides receives instructions on how to use the tools to handle the flight.
- Acro Tandem: If you are looking for excitement that has no boundaries and feel extreme adrenaline rush, then this is the type of tandem flight made just for you. It is performed only by certified pilots who have some experience. It is said to be at the intermediate or advance level of your paragliding course for the best experience.
- PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
It is suitable for people of varying fitness levels, ranging in age from 12 to 65 years and in weight from 25 to 90 kg. Those minors (12–18-year group) who wish to participate would need to be accompanied by at least one adult, and a parental agreement is necessary. It is said that people with health problem should inform their instructors to avoid medical emergencies.
- ACCOMODATION AND FOOD FACILITIES
There are many kinds of accommodations available in Kamshet, starting from budget-friendly guest houses to luxurious resorts. If you take a course in paragliding school, they usually include accommodation and food along with the sessions. There are variety of local shops and hotels serving variety of cuisines to the tourists.
Conclusion
Kamshet provides a space for paragliding to all, a novice, or a trained pilot; it gives one the freedom of the sky and experience nature in a way never done before. It has many paragliding schools owing to its scenic view and favourable weather conditions. Kamshet will give you a whole set of unforgettable memories and a wish to return to its adobe and explore the skies again.
