New heights: Asia’s best paragliding routes

No matter how much of Asia’s natural beauty you’ve seen – its teeming coral reefs and mist-covered mountain ranges – there’s always more to admire from a different vantage point. This spring, add a breath of fresh air and dose of adrenaline to your travels with a paragliding experience. 

First time paraglider? There's nothing to fear: tandem flights allow you to glide with a qualified and experienced instructor. While they take care of the logistics, all you have to do is sit back and soak up the stunning scenery. Take off feeling easy breezy by investing in Chubb insurance, which covers a range of extreme sports including paragliding, making it an ideal pick for adrenaline junkies. 

To ensure you get the most scenic views, we’ve tracked down Asia's top paragliding routes that combine adventure with natural beauty in remarkable destinations. Get ready to spread your wings and create memories that will last a lifetime.

1. Bir-Billing, India

In the foothills of the Himalayas, in India’s northernmost state, Bir-Billing is known as the country’s paragliding capital. It hosted its first Paragliding World Cup in 2015 and held the Paragliding Pre-World Cup last October. At an altitude of 2,400 metres from sea level, Bir-Billing is Asia's highest paragliding spot, making it a truly remarkable take-off point; a paragliding experience here will afford you panoramic views of the Dhauladhar mountain range and Kangra valley. Spring breakers are in luck, as the best times to visit include March to June.

How to get there: Fly directly to Delhi with us, then take a connecting flight to Bir-Billing's closest airport: Kangra Airport. Alternatively, you can catch an intercity bus from Delhi, which takes roughly 12 hours.

2. Okinawa, Japan

Soar over the rich blue coral reefs of Okinawa with a try at powered paragliding. In this version of paragliding , the pilot wears a motorised backpack, allowing take-off even from flat ground or in still air. Starting from Toguchi Beach, you’ll cruise 200 metres above the azure sea while taking in the Kerama Islands and the city of Naha. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of marine life such as sea turtles, rays and sharks. You can also bring your action camera along to document the experience, ensuring you don’t forget a single second of it.

How to get there: Fly to Okinawa with us. 

3. Oslob, Philippines

Paragliding around Cebu doesn’t get better than in nearby Oslob. Known for its whale shark-watching tours, the coastal town is full of natural wonders: waterfalls, beaches, coral reefs. Visit Oslob Paragliding Cafe for an aerial journey over this enchanting landscape. If you’re looking to enjoy more unique experiences in the area, book a one-day tour package. This will allow you to go from sky to sea by snorkelling with friendly whale sharks, exploring the famed shifting sandbar of Sumilon Island and swimming at the base of Tumalog Falls.

How to get there: Fly directly to Cebu with us, then take a taxi or bus to Oslob, which takes 3-4 hours. 

4. Pattaya, Thailand

Unleash your spirit of adventure in Thailand's coastal city of Pattaya, a leading destination for out-door activities and water sports, including unforgettable paragliding experiences. As you soar through the sky, your route will take you over Koh Lan, a small island of sandy white beaches set against a backdrop of green hills, and surrounded by the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand. Ensure a smooth journey in clear, dry conditions by planning your trip during peak sea-son, which is between November and April – there are plenty of providers to choose from online and locally.

How to get there: Fly directly to Bangkok with us, then grab a taxi to Pattaya, which takes 2 hours, or hop on a bus or train, which takes approximately 2.5 hours.

5. Pokhara, Nepal

West of Kathmandu, Pokhara is Nepal's adventure sports hub. Paragliding is immensely popular in the area thanks to its stable thermals – pockets of warm air that allow gliders to gain altitude and fly for longer – and convenient take-off and landing sites. During peak seasons, from March to May and September to November, there can be 250 flights every day. With a tandem session of up to 30-minutes, you’ll take off from Mandre Dhunga or Sarangkot and enjoy a serene glide over the stunning Phewa Lake, with views of the magnificent Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

How to get there: Fly directly to Kathmandu with us, then take a 30-minute connecting flight to Pokhara. Alternatively, you can catch a bus, which takes up to 8-9 hours.