Tourists Experience Thrilling Paragliding Amidst Thousands of Kites on Makar Sankranti; Surge in Adventure Tourism at Gujarat’s Only Hill Station
Kite Festival 2026 Hits New Heights: Saputara Becomes a Visual Masterpiece as Paragliders Soar Through Colorful Skies; Increase in Tourist Footfall Reported
SAPUTARA TRAVEL UPDATE: The picturesque hill station of Saputara, Gujarat’s pride nestled in the Dang district, witnessed an unprecedented celebration of Makar Sankranti this year. On January 14, 2026, the emerald valleys and rolling hills of the Sahyadri range were transformed into a vibrant playground of colors. While thousands of tourists from Gujarat and Maharashtra flocked to the hills for traditional kite flying, the real highlight was the spectacular fusion of professional paragliding and the festive spirit of Uttarayan.
This year’s celebration was not just limited to the terraces and grounds. In a daring move, adventure enthusiasts chose to fly alongside the kites, offering a bird’s-eye view of the festivities. The cool mountain breeze provided the perfect conditions for both kites and gliders, making Saputara the most sought-after destination for the 2026 winter season.
Paragliding Meets Kites: A Rare Aerial Convergence Over Governor Hill
Saputara is rapidly evolving into an adventure hub, and this Makar Sankranti saw a significant spike in paragliding bookings. Tourists weren’t just content with pulling strings from the ground; they wanted to be part of the sky itself.
- The Aerial View: Paragliders soaring at high altitudes reported a unique perspective of the thousands of kites dancing below them.
- Safety First: Despite the density of kites in the sky, specialized takeoff points at Governor Hill and Sunset Point ensured that paragliders maintained a safe distance from the sharp ‘Manjha’ (kite threads).
- Adventure Boost: Local operators noted an increase in first-time flyers who wanted to make their 2026 Uttarayan a lifelong memory by flying in the open air.
Golden Hour Magic: Sunset Point Captures the Essence of Uttarayan
As the sun began to dip behind the Dang mountains, Saputara witnessed a breathtaking display of natural beauty and human celebration.
- Photographer’s Paradise: The silhouette of paragliders against the orange hues of the setting sun, surrounded by drifting kites, created a viral sensation on social media platforms.
- Crowd Dynamics: Popular spots like the Saputara Lake, Governor Hill, and the Ropeway area saw a rise in crowds, with families enjoying the traditional ‘Til-Gul’ (sesame and jaggery) sweets amidst the chilly weather.
- Weather Conditions: The stable wind speeds characteristic of the Saputara plateau made it exceptionally easy for even novice kite-flyers to keep their kites airborne for hours.
Dang District Celebrates: From Ahwa to Waghai, the Spirit is High
Beyond the tourist-heavy Saputara, the entire Dang district was in a state of jubilation.
- Local Traditions: Tribal communities in Ahwa and Subir combined the kite festival with their traditional winter cuisine, showcasing a cultural blend that fascinated visiting tourists.
- Rural Excitement: Children in the remote hilly villages were seen chasing kites across the valleys, a heartwarming sight that added to the district’s festive charm.
- Economic Impact: Local vendors selling kites, snacks, and handicraft items reported a growth in sales compared to the previous year, thanks to the massive influx of visitors.
A Strategic Leap for Gujarat Tourism: Adventure Sports Take Center Stage
The integration of paragliding into the Kite Festival is a strategic win for the Gujarat Tourism Department. By promoting Saputara as an adventure destination during traditional festivals, the state is attracting a younger demographic of travelers.
“Saputara offers the best geographical advantage for aero-sports in Western India. Seeing paragliders share the sky with kites is a testament to the safe and diverse tourism ecosystem we have built,” remarked a local tourism official.
Conclusion: A Skyward Milestone for 2026
The 2026 Makar Sankranti in Saputara has set a high benchmark for how traditional festivals can be modernized through adventure. The combination of the thrill of paragliding and the nostalgia of kite flying has left tourists with unforgettable memories. As the gliders landed and the kites were reeled in at dusk, one thing was clear: Saputara remains the ultimate destination for those seeking a mix of nature, culture, and adrenaline.
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