
Complete Guide to Kamshet Paragliding Sites
Sarah Johnson
Table of Contents
Nestled in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, Kamshet has earned its reputation as India's paragliding paradise. With its unique microclimate and diverse terrain, it offers year-round flying opportunities for pilots of all skill levels. This comprehensive guide draws from my decade of experience flying these sites.
Tower Hill (Shinde Wadi)
Standing at 2,200 feet above sea level, Tower Hill is Kamshet's premier flying site. As someone who's logged over 500 flights here, I can attest to its exceptional characteristics:
- Reliable thermals from 10 AM to sunset, with peak activity between 1-4 PM
- 300-400m height gain potential, with some pilots reaching 1,200m on exceptional days
- Wide take-off area with forgiving terrain, perfect for all skill levels
- Multiple landing options with clear approaches and minimal obstacles
Tower Hill launch site during a perfect winter morning
Shelar Site
Located 15km from Kamshet town, Shelar has become increasingly popular for its:
- Consistent ridge lift in westerly winds (best from 2 PM onwards)
- Spacious training slope perfect for beginners
- Cross-country potential during peak season
- Stunning views of Pawna Lake and surrounding valleys
Season Breakdown:
- October - November: Post-monsoon period with moderate thermals (18-22°C), ideal for beginners
- December - February: Peak season featuring:
- Clear skies with 8-10km visibility
- Optimal thermal conditions between 11 AM - 4 PM
- Pleasant temperatures (15-25°C)
- March - May: Strong thermal activity with potential for:
- Height gains exceeding 1,000m
- Cross-country flights (for experienced pilots)
- Early morning and late afternoon sessions recommended
Essential Safety Guidelines
Based on local incident reports and personal experience, here are critical safety considerations:
- Mandatory weather briefing before each flying session
- Radio communication required for all flights
- Equipment inspection by certified professionals every 6 months
- Strict adherence to site-specific rules and regulations
⚠️ Important Notices
- DGCA certification required for all pilots
- Local club membership mandatory for regular flyers
- Special permits needed for cross-country flights
- Contact Kamshet Paragliding Association for current site status
Accommodation and Logistics
Several paragliding schools offer comprehensive packages including:
- Dormitory/private room options (₹1,500-3,500 per night)
- Equipment rental (₹2,000-3,000 per day)
- Transport to flying sites
- Professional instruction and guidance
About the Author
Sarah Johnson
APPI certified paragliding instructor with over 2,000 hours of airtime. Based in Kamshet since 2014, Sarah specializes in thermal flying techniques and cross-country training. Former British Paragliding Team member.