Para gliding:
Para gliding can be great fun because you will be using a parachute without actually jumping of an aircraft. The difference between Para gliding and Hang gliding lies, primarily, in the gear. The Para glider is essentially a parachute wing, has no frame and is almost elliptical. The Hang glider has aluminum frame inside a triangular shaped sail that typically has a pointed nose. It is a flexible wing aircraft that is piloted by shifting your weight. Powered Hang gliding is growing in popularity as an aero sport.

Where to Go?
Haskote and Jakkur in Karnataka are the best Para gliding spots.

When to Go?
January, March to August.

What you need to know?
There are professional Para gliding and Hang gliding operators with well-trained pilots. Usually a complete package including the equipment, food and accommodation is offered. The rides include tandem joy rides for amateurs. (Pilot accompanies in a twin seater glider).

What you must carry?
You don’t have to buy the equipment to experience the sport. You can rent it from your tour operator. However, check your gear for wear and tear before you are ready to soar. The main equipment consists of the glider, also called the wing, the harness and safety gear.

Para Gliding Do’s:
• Ensure equipment is reliable.
• Make sure that operator takes all safety precautions.
Para Gliding Don’ts:
• Don’t fly in extreme weather conditions.

Duration: 4-10 day courses.

Cost per person: Rs 3000 (basic course), Rs 8000 (intermediate course) per person.

Ballooning:
In ballooning, propane burners warm the air that is inside the balloon. The huge nylon balloon, to which your basket is attached, is soon filled with hot air. The logic here is simple. When you heat the air inside the balloon it becomes light and you go up and vice versa. In India it is quite a new sport but is gaining wide popularity.

Where to Go?
Haskote and Jakkur in Karnataka are the best ballooning spots.

When to Go?
January, March to August.

What you need to know?
The ballooning club in India, which was set up in India in 1970 in New Delhi, organizes international balloon festivals and demonstration flights annually These events attract a large number of spectators.

What you must carry?
Most of the equipment required for ballooning is provided by the operator. Be choosy about buying expensive equipment and always seek an experts advice.

Balloon Do’s:
• Always begin under the guidance of an instructor.
• Double check your gear before taking off.
Balloon Don’ts:
• Don’t venture out on a turbulent day.
• Don’t go ballooning if you have a fear of heights or flying.