Ultralight Flight in Pokhara - Avia Club Nepal

Overview

Avia Club Nepal, established in 1996, is Nepal's pioneering ultralight aircraft operator and the longest-running air sports company in the country. Their fleet of ultralight aircraft offers a unique way to experience the Himalayas — from an open cockpit with unobstructed 360° views.

Unlike paragliding where you're at the mercy of thermals, ultralight flights give you the power of motorized flight. You can climb to altitudes of up to 9,000 feet, bringing you remarkably close to the towering peaks of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna, and the entire Himalayan range.

Below, you'll see Phewa Lake sparkling in the sunlight, the Seti River valley winding through hills, and the entire Pokhara basin spread out like a living map. It's an experience that combines the thrill of flight with some of the most spectacular mountain scenery on Earth.

What's Included

Professional pilot with decades of Himalayan flying experience
Pre-flight briefing and safety instructions
Flight helmet with intercom for pilot communication
Choice of flight durations (15, 30, 60, or 90 minutes)
Transportation to/from Pokhara Airport airstrip
Certificate of flight

Requirements

Age

No strict limit (children with guardian consent)

Weight

Maximum 100 kg per passenger

Health

No severe heart conditions or motion sickness issues

Experience

None required — pilot does everything

Flight Options

15-Minute Flight (~$150): A quick taste of ultralight flying. Circle over Phewa Lake and the Pokhara valley with views of the Himalayan range in the distance. Perfect for first-timers or those short on time.

30-Minute Flight (~$250): Extended valley flight with more time to take in the scenery. Fly along the Seti River valley and enjoy closer views of the mountains. The most popular option.

60-Minute Flight (~$400): A comprehensive Himalayan experience. Climb higher toward the mountains, approaching closer to Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range. Incredible photo opportunities.

90-Minute Flight (~$550): The ultimate ultralight experience. Maximum altitude and closest approach to the peaks. Fly to approximately 9,000 feet near Fishtail Mountain. Unforgettable.

Best Time to Visit

Autumn (October-November): The premium flying season. Crystal-clear post-monsoon skies offer the best visibility for mountain photography. Stable air conditions make for smooth flights.

Winter (December-February): Excellent visibility continues with snow-capped peaks at their most dramatic. Cold at altitude, so dress warmly. Shorter flying windows due to morning fog.

Spring (March-May): Good flying conditions with gradually warming temperatures. Slight haze increases as the season progresses, but mornings are typically clear.

Monsoon (June-September): Limited flying due to clouds, rain, and reduced visibility. Some flights possible on clear mornings, but not recommended for Himalayan views.

How It Works

Reservation & Pickup

Flights typically operate in the morning when visibility is best. You'll be picked up from your Lakeside hotel and transferred to the Avia Club office near Pokhara Airport.

Registration & Briefing

Complete registration forms and receive a safety briefing. Your pilot explains the route, communication system, and what to expect during the flight.

Gear Up

You're fitted with a flight helmet equipped with an intercom so you can communicate with your pilot throughout the flight. Sunglasses recommended.

Takeoff

Board the ultralight aircraft and secure your harness. The pilot starts the engine, taxis to the runway, and you're airborne within seconds.

The Flight

Experience the thrill of open-cockpit flying as you climb over the Pokhara valley. Depending on your flight duration, venture closer to the Himalayas with unobstructed views.

Landing & Return

Touch down smoothly at the airstrip. Receive your flight certificate and transfer back to Lakeside, floating on the memory of an incredible flight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ultralight flying safe?

Avia Club Nepal has an excellent safety record spanning nearly three decades. Pilots are highly experienced with thousands of Himalayan flying hours. Aircraft are regularly maintained to international standards.

How is it different from paragliding?

Ultralight flights are motorized, giving you control over altitude and direction regardless of thermal conditions. You can fly higher and closer to the mountains than paragliding typically allows, and flights operate even when thermal conditions aren't ideal for paragliding.

Will I get cold?

At altitude, temperatures drop significantly. Dress in layers and bring a warm jacket. The club provides flight suits for longer flights, but bringing your own warm clothing is recommended.

Can I take photos?

Absolutely! The open cockpit is perfect for photography. Bring a camera with a secure strap — smartphones work well but can be tricky to handle with gloves. The pilot can suggest the best moments for photos.

What if weather is bad?

Flights are weather-dependent and may be rescheduled if conditions are unsuitable. This is for your safety — mountain flying requires good visibility. The club monitors conditions and will contact you about any changes.

Ultralight Flight