Ultra Light Flight Experience in Pokhra , Nepal - A dream fulfilled !
The most sought destination for adventure seekers, Nepal never ceases to amaze you with its thrilling experiences. Among them the Ultra Light Flight in Pokhara is an exhilarating adventure activity. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the majestic beauty of the Annapurna mountain range and the stunning landscapes of Pokhara, Nepal. This thrilling aerial adventure is perfect for those looking to get a bird's-eye view of the enchanting city, lush green valleys, pristine lakes, and snow-capped peaks.
Vishwanath Radhakrishna 
On my recent trip to Nepal, I did something for the first time! I sat in a flying machine which resemble a capsule like a pillion rider in the rear seat of an Ultralight open aircraft and after a short briefing, off I went to the skies like a bird !
Soon, I was wearing a jacket, helmet and I was seated at the back of the small cockpit. Within a few minutes into the flight I realized it was an ideal decision to do. It is anyway a wise thing to follow the instructions given by people in charge of adventure activities at all times!
Be calm !
When dawn broke, I could see the mountains glow in brilliant colours. As the cockpit of the 9N - AKI plane is open, it is a windy flight where we cannot communicate through words and only gestures.
My pilot was a pro, he said that he has a count of around 500 + flying hours. He kept smiling in his rear view mirror and pointing out to spots below for me to photograph or see.
Hand signals are used for communication. You give thumbs up for feeling fine and thumbs down if you wish to return back!
Pilot in the Ultralight started communicating through his microphone !. I realized he was talking to the air traffic controller ! We were using the active runway and we needed permission to take off !
I was a little tense as small aircraft often make for a bumpy ride ! But not this time. The take off was very smooth and then I forgot everything and was lost for sometime, with panoramic views below !.The passing clouds kissed me and mountains seemed to embrace me !
The sky was clear, I could savour the best aerial views of Pokhara from Ultralight flight.If you enjoy a streak of adventure then this is perfect for you.
I remembered my mountain flight experience, which I did decades back !
Though the flying lasted for 30 minutes, it was the ultimate experience.I could see Machapuchare - Fishtail, Annapurna range, Damphus, Ganesh Himal and birds view of Phewa lake
The landing once again was smooth for such a small aircraft.The sunlight was intense, I thanked the Pilot for such a lovely, memorable, experience and safe landing.
I for a while i felt that i descended from heaven and was missing company of mountains.
I felt that Nepal is a country which is not a place to visit once !
Got excited. Then realize your dream here !
Where can I get the best Ultra Light Flight Experience – I believe there are a couple of companies in Pokhara but the one I used was Ultralight Pokhra
How Much Does It Cost – For the 15 minute flight it is approx NC 13,000 (Nepalese) and they do also record video footage of your flight so in case you want a copy it’s an additional 25 USD. The price might fluctuate a bit as per season and availibility.
Is It Safe – Yes. Absolutely 100%. What I didn’t realise is that there is a machine / Propeller. Unlike paragliding where you just glide. They ensure to check wind conditions before each flight and if they think it’s not safe they will not take you up and full refund your money. Each pilot is well trained and has been doing this for a minimum of 5 years, in fact most of them are trained in other countries to gain experience.
Best time to fly: The best time to enjoy an UltraLight Flight in Pokhara is between October and April, when the weather is clear and stable, offering excellent visibility of the mountains and the surrounding landscape.
Note - If individual has fear of heights, please dont opt or think about it.Just enjoy the views of mountain country !
