Adventure

Paragliding at Khanpur Lake: Because the Ground Was Getting Boring

· 2 min read

Paragliding at Khanpur: the group beside a paraglider wing on the launch hill
In this story
  1. The Lake Below
  2. What a Tandem Flight Feels Like
  3. Make a Day of It
  4. Plan Your Trip
  5. Good to Know
  6. Frequently Asked Questions

There is a moment just before takeoff when your brain asks a reasonable question: 'Are we really doing this?'

Then you take three steps, the wing fills with air, and the ground politely lets go of you.

Paragliding at Khanpur: the group walking across the grassy hilltop
The group walking across the grassy hilltop.

The Lake Below

Khanpur Lake is the reservoir of Khanpur Dam on the Haro River, surrounded by rocky hills and green slopes. From the air, the water shifts from emerald to deep blue depending on the light, and the shoreline looks like a map someone drew carefully.

It is a favorite weekend escape from Islamabad for kayaking, boating and cliff jumping in designated spots. Paragliding just takes the view up a few hundred meters.

What a Tandem Flight Feels Like

In a tandem flight, a trained pilot flies the glider while you sit in front in a harness. You do not need any experience. You just need to listen, run when told and resist the urge to close your eyes for the whole thing.

Takeoff is a rush. The flight itself is surprisingly calm, almost meditative. With only wind in your ears and the lake far below, many first timers say it is the most peaceful few minutes they have had in years.

Paragliding at Khanpur: the group listening to an instructor in a helmetParagliding at Khanpur: the team running hand in hand across the hillsideParagliding at Khanpur: the whole group cheering for the camera
The group listening to an instructor in a helmet. · The team running hand in hand across the hillside. · The whole group cheering for the camera.

Make a Day of It

Taxila, one of the world's great Gandhara Buddhist sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a short drive away. Khanpur is also known locally for its orchards. Pair a morning flight with an afternoon among ancient monasteries and you have a day that covers both sky and history.

Plan Your Trip

  • How to get there: About 1 to 2 hours by road from Islamabad via the Taxila side
  • Duration: Half day to full day
  • Best conditions: Flights depend on wind and weather, not a fixed season
  • Difficulty: Beginner friendly for eligible tandem passengers
  • Nearby: Taxila, boating and kayaking on the lake
  • Stay: Day trip from Islamabad
Paragliding at Khanpur: people on the hillside under a cloudy sky
People on the hillside under a cloudy sky.

Good to Know

  • Fly only with qualified, insured pilots using inspected equipment.
  • Ask about weight, age and health limits before booking.
  • Flights can be cancelled on the day if wind is unsuitable. That is a good sign, not bad service.
  • Wear closed shoes and secure clothing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need experience to paraglide at Khanpur?

No. In a tandem flight a trained pilot controls the glider and you simply follow instructions.

How far is Khanpur from Islamabad?

About 1 to 2 hours by road, depending on your starting point and traffic.

Is paragliding safe?

It can be when done with qualified pilots, maintained equipment and suitable weather. Always verify the operator before flying.

The world looks different when your feet are not touching it.

The XPITUDE Verdict

Ask XPITUDE about adventure days at Khanpur for groups and teams

From the trail

Paragliding at Khanpur: a paraglider wing laid out on the hillside Paragliding at Khanpur: friends standing together on the launch site

Tell us the month. We'll tell you what's possible.

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