Kalimpong Gets a New Paragliding Site with Spectacular Views of the Himalayas and Teesta

Yowan Mothay, EOI, KALIMPONG, OCTOBER 18, 2025 :  A new paragliding take-off site has been inaugurated at Chuikhim Bakude Danda under Pabringtar Gram Panchayat, Kalimpong Block-1. The initiative, undertaken by the Chuikhim Tourism Welfare Society, aims to promote adventure tourism and create local employment opportunities.

According to the organizers, the take-off point is located approximately three kilometers from the landing site at Les Khola. The flight route offers a thrilling experience over scenic hills, lush forests, and the meandering Teesta River. The site is also conveniently situated near National Highway 717-A, with notable attractions like the Yelbong River Canyon Cave and the Saleroti Bridge located nearby. From the hilltop, visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas, the Teesta River, and the surrounding natural beauty.

The paragliding site was formally inaugurated by Kalimpong MLA Ruden Sada Lepcha. The event was attended by several distinguished guests, including GTA Deputy Chief Sanchabir Subba, Field Director of the GTA Tourism Department Dawa Gyalpo Sherpa, and Pabringtar Gram Panchayat Pradhan Rabin Subba.

Addressing the gathering, MLA Ruden Sada Lepcha highlighted the potential of the region’s natural landscape in generating sustainable livelihood opportunities for local youth. "Many young people migrate elsewhere in search of jobs, but our own hills and valleys hold abundant potential for income through tourism and local enterprise," he said.

GTA Tourism Field Director Dawa Gyalpo Sherpa expressed optimism about the site’s future, stating that the new paragliding point was located in a "spectacularly beautiful area" and was bound to attract adventure enthusiasts and tourists.

According to Pradhan Rabin Subba, the site was inaugurated only after successful trial flights and after obtaining the necessary permissions from the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration and the West Bengal Government. He further informed that six paragliders were currently stationed at the site, operated by trained and experienced pilots.

The inauguration marks an important step toward enhancing eco-adventure tourism in Kalimpong, which has been steadily gaining popularity for its blend of natural beauty, culture, and outdoor recreation.