Running off a grassy ridge and feeling the wind lift the glider feels less like falling and more like finally being weightless. The moment the boots leave the soil and the silence of the sky takes over, it hits differently. It feels like the heavy traffic and noise of the city have evaporated entirely.
Kamshet is a staple in any Mumbai travel guide for those wanting to escape the urban jungle. Though located a short distance away, it is considered one of the most thrilling things to do in Mumbai during a weekend getaway. For travelers on Mumbai holidays, it offers a stark contrast to traditional Mumbai sightseeing. Many adventurous Mumbai tour packages recommend this detour to see the Western Ghats from above. To truly visit Mumbai and its surroundings, one must experience this aerial perspective, making it one of the most unique places to visit in Mumbai. After a day in the clouds, heading back to luxury Mumbai hotels completes a perfect Mumbai trip.
One fun fact people love:
Kamshet is known as the paragliding capital of Western India because of its unique topography and reliable thermals, which allow pilots to stay in the air for hours without an engine.
Where in Mumbai is it?
While not in the city center, Kamshet is located about 110 kilometers from Mumbai, making it a premier destination for Mumbai tourism day trips.
How to reach:
A private car or cab via the Mumbai Pune Expressway is the fastest route, taking about 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a local train to Lonavala and then a short taxi or suburban train to Kamshet.
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Mumbai and Kamshet for flying is from October to May. Paragliding is strictly closed during the monsoon season for safety.
Best time of day:
Go either: Early morning for smooth, calm air. or Late afternoon for soaring sessions that offer views of the sun dipping behind the Sahyadri mountains.
Entry fee:
There is no entry fee for the town, but tandem paragliding flights typically range from 3,000 to 5,000 INR depending on the duration and type of flight.
Commute difficulty:
Easy to moderate. The drive is smooth, but the final stretch to the takeoff hills may involve bumpy village roads or a short hike.
Things nobody tells you about this place:
- You don’t need to know how to fly; a professional pilot handles everything in a tandem flight.
- Landing is surprisingly gentle and usually happens in a soft, grassy field.
- It is one of the top attractions in Mumbai region for birdwatchers too.
- Carry a light jacket because it gets chilly as you gain altitude.
- Motion sickness can happen even in the air, so avoid a heavy meal right before your flight.
- The peace you feel at 2,000 feet is the ultimate reset button for your mind.