This is the first degree in the APPI Education System. The student learns how to prepare, inflate and control the wing on the ground (Ground Handling) and have his/her first solo flight experience. At this level, all activity is done under an Instruc- tor’s supervision. This course is an initiation, a discovery, your very first step in the sky and into the magical world of free flight- your First Solo Flight.
This course is designed to give you a fair idea about paragliding and what it promises. We are confident that you will learn a lot after the first day of the solo lesson:
1. Site and wind assessment
2. Equipment introduction
3. Canopy layout
4. Pre-flight checks
5. Forward inflation
6. Control familiarization
7. Ground handling
8. Canopy deflation
9. Take off & landing technique
10. Steering and Speed Control
11.Slope Runs & Hops
12. Mini Flights
13. Solo flights – assisted take off, radio supervised flying & landing
14. Post flight procedures
15. Canopy – care & maintenance
We arrive at the site in the morning or afternoon depending on the weather conditions. We begin your first session in paragliding by introducing you to the equipment and the paragliding flying site. Your first training lesson is on flat ground where we explain and demonstrate the paragliding basics – canopy inspection, canopy layout, how to connect oneself to the paraglider and most importantly the paragliding pre-flight checks.
We will then determine if there is any wind, and lay the canopy out on the ground facing the direction the wind is coming. Once we attach the harness to the risers and put our helmets on, we will hook ourselves into the harness and do a pre-flight check. The next step is to inflate the canopy and familiarize oneself with the canopy and controls. Running along the ground with the wing above you, you will see how to control the wing’s direction with the brakes (also used for steering). You will also learn to bring down the glider by using the brakes.
We will then demonstrate how to gather the paraglider into a mushroom-shaped ball, ready for carrying. This is how we walk with the glider so we don’t drag the wing on the ground.
After brief explanations and demonstrations, it’s time to get started! Don’t expect anything on the first go, just follow the instructions and see what happens. After the first attempt, things will begin to make some sense and your patient instructor will help and assist you to understand what’s going wrong and why. It’s like learning any other sport, playing around with the wing and a few more attempts will familiarize you with the wing and the controls.
Soon you will be able to inflate the glider with ease and be able to correlate its behaviour with the wind conditions.
Now that you have an idea of the forward inflation technique, we are going to make it easier for you. We are going to go up a nursery slope and let you run down the gentle slope.
The slopes will allow you to start to feel the lift created by the wing as you run with it.
Next, you learn the take-off and landing techniques by a simple use of brakes that will help you during your small lift offs.
You are now doing what is called as ‘hops’ (no it’s not a joke, they are really called hops!).
All along your instructor will keep giving you tips and tricks to improve your skills. Once you have mastered your takeoffs and landings, you will be ready for your first epic flight popularly known as your “FIRST SOLO” flight.
You are cleared for your first flight after your Instructors are fully convinced about your ability to fly solo and so are you. This is where the magic begins. You will be assisted for take-off from a 200 ft. hill and your flight will be radio supervised by your instructor and there will also be an Instructor down below as a landing marshal.
There is nothing quite your first solo. You are filled with a feeling of exhilaration, fear and excitement before take off and your Instructor will guide you how to overcome all this.
And of course, on landing, you will have the largest smile ever!
Be sure to get a camera as your first paragliding flight happens only once!
WHERE DO I REACH AT THE END OF THE COURSE… ?
You now know what the sport is all about and what it promises to you in the future. You are able to take-off, make turns, fly an intended flight plan for this level and comfortably able to make a good approach and a safe and smooth landing.
You now have the necessary knowledge and skills to fly on your own with the supervision and guidance of your Instructor.
Now that you are a pilot and have tasted the skies, be sure you will look for more.
The P1 Certificate – APPI 1 Discover – FAI IPPI 1 Rating (In progress) makes you eligible to sign up for next 4 day P2 course and get APPI 1 Discover (Validated) or 8 day P2 + Certification course – CC )to get your APPI 2 Explore – FAI IPPI 2 rating (Validated)
Temple Pilots is an amazing place to start your flying journey! The team is incredibly hardworking, passionate, and truly dedicated to what they do. They pay close attention to every detail, ensuring safety, skill development, and an unforgettable flying experience. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to advance, this is the perfect place to learn and grow as a pilot. And such a kind and lovely people and food OMG !!! And Plus, they’re the only APPI certified school in the country—so you know you’re learning from the best.
Temple pilots is a warm and friendly place where you can learn to be a pilot by knowing how to fly a glider ………. The instructors are caring and excellent in their job . With cheif instructor Mr Avi Malik an ex Indian airforce pilot himself looking after your flights you are in safe hands ……. It’s a very friendly atmosphere where you connect with diffrent people in all walks of life . The vibe of this place makes you comfortable . Having said that the whole learning experience is also meticulous and focussed ……..
Thank you team temple pilots for the experience…….. see you in the sky soon
Temple Pilots is the best place to learn Paragliding. Not that I have been to other places to compare, but I don’t need to. The instructors, equipment, training, safety everything is just perfect.
I opted for a 4 day P1 course. It was good, the learning curve is steep but the instructors help you have your own pace.
The stay is homely. Food is great.
They take care of travel from base camp to training grounds.
On our 4th day I was able to do a solo flight. It was the best experience of my life.
If you are new to paragliding or have no idea about it, this could be the place to start.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 A Thrilling & Transformative Experience at Temple Pilots Paragliding!
I recently completed the 4-day P1 Pilot Certification Course at Temple Pilots Paragliding in Kamshet, Pune, and it was an absolute delight! The team of excellent and caring trainers provided step-by-step guidance each day, ensuring a safe and structured learning experience.
A special mention to Mr. Avi Malik, whose passion for making paragliding accessible is truly commendable. His motivational talks go beyond just flying, touching upon emotional well-being and confidence-building, making the journey even more fulfilling.
“I’d rather be a sparrow than a snail,
Yes, I would, if I could, I surely would…” from the Peruvian song “el condor pasa”
In essence, the “flight of freedom” in this song is not just about physical flying, but a spiritual longing—to choose a life of authenticity, adventure, and connection with the natural world over the monotony and weight of modern existence.
And that’s exactly what Temple Pilots helps you experience—the true joy of soaring like a condor, embracing the sky, and discovering freedom in its purest form. 🪂✨
I’ve just finished the P1 course at Temple Pilots and had the best time! All the instructors are fantastic – so much passion for paragliding and a real drive to make everyone learn and improve. As a foreigner, everyone spoke in English when I was around, and made me feel so welcome. I’m sure Temple Pilots are unique for feeling like you a joining a family. The meals at base were amazing, and I wish I had stayed in the dorms to make the most of it (instead of staying at a local hotel where chicken wings gave me food poisoning!). Kamshet is a perfect paragliding spot because you are pretty much guaranteed to fly/learn to fly everyday – the same cannot be said in Europe. I hope I can go back to Temple Pilots and see everyone again!
I had an incredible experience at the at Temple Pilots where I took APPI1 beginner’s course. The instructors were top-notch, showing a perfect balance of patience, politeness, and firmness when necessary. Thanks to their guidance, I was able to fly solo within just four days, which was a breath taking experience. (It requires a lot of practice though, but worth it, trust me!)
The environment was perfect for learning, with a wonderful mix of paragliding enthusiasts from various backgrounds, and some truly experienced instructors, including national-level professionals. Shout out to Sagar Sir for being the best guide throughout.
Avi Sir and Anita Ma’am played a huge role in creating this wonderful atmosphere, and their inspiring stories and lessons were invaluable.
Also the food at the dorm was absolutely delicious, making the entire experience even more enjoyable.
Highly recommend the whole experience!
Recently had the opportunity to paraglide with Temple Pilots in Kamshet (near Pune) in India. As expected, the flying experience with the well-trained staff was wonderful, but it was the time spent afterwards with Avi Malik, the founder, that is hard to put into words. Avi’s warm personality and charming hospitality emanates from every corner of his “Temple.” I look forward to a longer stay on the next visit.
Temple Pilots is the best place to learn Paragliding undoubtedly. What makes them unique is their passion towards to sport coupled with other qualities like discipline, working with standard operating procedures, strictly following it, giving safety the highest priority and last but not the least, people behind the school.
I choose temple pilots for my P1 training looking at the YouTube content and Instagram content of official temple pilots channels and page. What impressed me was the people behind the school, I found the Chief Instructor Avi sir’s work very impressive and if I’m deciding to do something out of my comfort zone, I thought it would be wise to trust a trainer with good credibility. I must say what ever I found in the video is 100% as is at the school and there is no exaggeration.
All my fears with respect to the sport were killed because they teach about the sport systemically and you will know exactly what you are getting into before your first flight.
And If you stay within the temple pilots dorms, you are in for a scrumptious treat, food there is delicious.
If you aspire to fly once and want to stay alive after your first flight choose temple pilots.
My recent experience with Temple Pilots was exceptional, with instructors showcasing expert knowledge and a well-crafted learning structure blending theory, video, and practical sessions. It goes beyond a paraglyding school, offering a harmonious mix of positive learning, skill-building, and culinary delight. The vibes are extraordinary, from founders to instructors, creating a comprehensive, safe, and enjoyable paragliding education.
Also, the kitchen staff adds their unique flavor, making it a delightful home away from home.
If you’re a student ready to soar, this is your ultimate playground!”
I recently had the privilege of completing my P1 paragliding course with Temple Pilots, and I couldn’t have asked for a better experience! Right from the start, their team stood out for being incredibly friendly and approachable, creating a welcoming environment that immediately put me at ease.
Safety is clearly their top priority. Every session was conducted with meticulous care, and their instructors ensured that every technical aspect of paragliding was thoroughly explained. They didn’t just focus on the “how-to” but also delved into the “why” and the potential consequences, leaving no room for doubt.
What was also important for me was how they truly go with the flow, never rushing anyone into anything they’re not ready for. They encouraged us to take our time, focus, and build confidence at our own pace, which made the learning process even more enjoyable.
It’s rare to find such a perfect balance of professionalism and warmth, and Temple Pilots excels in both. It was an absolutely wonderful experience, and I’m already looking forward to continuing my paragliding journey with them. For anyone considering learning this thrilling sport, I wholeheartedly recommend Temple Pilots—you’re in the safest hands!
If you’re considering learning paragliding, don’t think twice – just go for it! And when you do, make sure to choose Temple Pilots only because they are truly the best in the business. From the start to the end, my experience with them was nothing short of amazing. The instructors here are incredibly patient and prioritize safety above everything else – something that’s absolutely essential in a sport like this. They ensure every student progresses at their own pace, without any pressure or rush. The course is so well-structured, with debrief and simulator sessions after each ground training session that are immensely helpful. The detailed feedback provided during these sessions helps one feel more confident and prepared for the next day. I’d also highly recommend opting for their stay and meal package – it’s not just convenient but also adds so much to the experience. Plus, the home-cooked meals are delicious! I went solo, and I’m so happy I chose Temple Pilots for my paragliding journey. The care, passion, and expertise of the team made this an unforgettable experience, and I couldn’t have asked for anything better. Whether you’re looking to tick something off your bucket list or pursue paragliding more seriously, Temple Pilots is the place to go. They don’t just teach you – they inspire you.
The best institute in India. I can say this because I have seen others also practicing there and I can clearly see the difference between the equipments, trainings, instructors and offcourse Avi Sir(Ex Indian Airforce Pilot).
The landings we used to make was smooth on our two legs, and others were making harsh landing on knees, face sometimes getting dragged and rolled on surface with speed. Safety was my topmost priority and the way they trained, I didn’t had a small moment of fear while launching for solo flight.
Special thanks to the instructors who were majorly there for my training – Ankush sir, Santosh Sir, Praveen sir, Mihir Sir, Yuvraj Sir and Rohit Sir were the jolly guys, then Ninaad sir the photographer, Sagar sir.
In each training and in each execution, Enjoy is the feeling they makes mandate for you to have learning with fun and with no stress.
And at last, Hari’s food at their place was so awsum, and thecha was a top notch on it.
Definitely a place to sign in if you want to fly solo, and if flying is not in your bucket list then you are missing the bestest feeling that you can get.
Thanks Temple Pilots
Feeling on top of the world after my first solo paragliding flight! A huge shoutout to Temple Pilots Paragliding School for making this journey so safe, joyful, and incredibly exciting. From the preparation to the actual flight, the team’s dedication to safety and their passion for the sport made this experience unforgettable. Grateful for the confidence they instilled in me to soar the skies solo! Can’t wait for the next flight! 🪂 I highly recommend Temple pilots Paragliding
I have done paragliding P1 course for 4 days with TPP in the month of October 2023. And to be honest I am gonna go for next course too. They are so professional and perfect.
This was my first time to try this adventure, but I was not scared as all the instructors guided and handled me so well that it looked so easy to me. If you are looking to try paragliding in your life then I will definitely recommend you Temple Pilot Paragliding(the only one) to make it more easy going and memorable
Every waking minute at Temple Pilots has been an enriching experience.
With the most thoughtful founders – Anita & Avi, who’s efforts are evident in every little and big act. The most wonderful, pleasant, encouraging, knowledgeable instructors. Huge thanks to Hari ji who kept us well hydrated (I stole everyone’s kokum juice!), and to keep us well fed and nourished.
The gliders themselves are of superior quality, safety and ground training their numero uno priority.
This was my second time here and I came back because of my love for the sport, for the liberation, for the learning, for the team spirit but most importantly, the culture this little family has going. I teared up in isolation as I left, yearning for more time here.
Cannot wait to be back sooon and hug everyone again! ♥️♥️
The best place to learn paragliding & some lessons for life.
I did my 4-day APPI P1 training from Temple Pilots – I chose them after some research and multiple interactions with Arshi from TP. Without a second thought, Best place to learn paragliding in India. Absolutely Awesome founders, Amazing Staff, well planned training structure, Quality Equipment, Comfortable accommodation and Delicious food.
The course is planned in a very progressive manner to impart training from understanding your glider at ground to being able to fly independently – On time early morning starts, briefing sessions, on ground training, classroom Theory/video sessions, Debriefing sessions with individual feedbacks and practicing on simulator and Visualization. Every single member of the staff was not only an expert pilot, but knew how to impart the training to the new folks. They work on the physical and mental aspect of training and spoke to individuals when necessary – to manage fear, anxiety etc. And all this with absolute respect. The magic is in culture of the organisation that Avi & Anita have built. They care for every single individual working at TP with love and respect.
Bonus – you get to meet some very amazing people(fellow student pilots) with different perspectives and their stories. Had a great time here learning paragliding and some lessons for life. Will be back for P2 soon.
The best paragliding school in India. We did a 4 day P1 course and the overall experience far exceeded our expectations. The entire team is extremely professional, patient, disciplined and dedicated to the sport. The program and daily tasks are done with meticulous attention to detail. To really get the best out of what Temple Pilots has to offer, one must visit with an open mind and the right attitude. The benchmarks are high and it translates on the field. Temple Pilots fly a class apart from the crowd. The stay was wonderful, and the food was fabulous.
I have done paragliding P1 course for 4 days with TPP in the month of October 2023. And to be honest I am gonna go for next course too. They are so professional and perfect.
This was my first time to try this adventure, but I was not scared as all the instructors guided and handled me so well that it looked so easy to me. If you are looking to try paragliding in your life then I will definitely recommend you Temple Pilot Paragliding(the only one) to make it more easy going and memorable.
I had enrolled for the 4-day P1/APPI 1 Discover course and have had one of the best times with Temple Pilots. All the instructors at Temple Pilots are highly professional and the amount of efforts they put in our training – be it on the ground or at the base is commendable!
Safety is of paramount importance here.
The instructors thoroughly analyze the minute details during our trainings and share personalized 1-1 detailed feedback with each student pilot. They ensure that we are absolutely, 100% comfortable and ready before advancing to the next stage.
All the instructors at Temple Pilots are incredibly patient, polite, and extremely kind – having so many qualities bundled up across an entire instructing team, is very rare to find. I could not have asked for better teachers.🙌
Kudos to Avi Sir, Anita Mam, and the entire Temple Pilots team for imparting high-quality standards and a safe training experience.
My flying experience has been surreal! There’s nothing quite like your first solo flight, its beyond amazing and words fall short to express my gratitude for this moment.
There’s so much to learn from everyone around, fellow, and senior pilots altogether. At the end of each day, you’d be content, mentally refreshed and in a happy state of mind! To add on, the food is great, and the accommodation is comfortable too.
On another side note, completely based on my experience, if you are planning to take up the 4-day P1 course – I would suggest keeping a buffer day in hand, even if you are a fast learner. Just in case.😊
Temple Pilots is all about good energy, delicious food, great vibes, awesome people, so much learning and much more fun flying! I highly recommend Temple Pilots Paragliding school to anyone who wants to learn to fly. Go for it and you will have a memory etched to your heart for a lifetime!❤️❤️
I had the best and most memorable experience learning paragliding with the team at Temple Pilots. I did the APPI 1 course with them and the team was nothing short of extraordinary. Each instructor is so patient and calm and helps with every stage of the process.
We stayed at the Temple Pilots accommodation also – the rooms are extremely comfortable and the food is super tasty! The vibe is so conducive to learn and the journey really transforms you. Loved every moment of my time here.
If you’re looking for a paragliding school/joy ride in India, there is no better choice than temple pilots. Being super paranoid about the safety aspect myself, I am beyond at-ease after my P1 course! Their level of professionalism, eye for safety and skill of each and every instructor is on point! All of this, while making the learning experience so fun and joyful. The founders Avi, Anita and the whole team is just so skilled that you forget about about the safety relating paranoia of the sport seeing their confidence and knowledge about the slopes and hills. Rate my experience 200/100 with Temple Pilots 😀
I could keep writing pages and pages of their praises and it would still not be enough so I ll keep it short and simple.
For a person who wants to learn to fly, look no further. This is the safest place you can do so. I completed my P1 from here and not for one moment did I fear for my safety. The constant instructor feedback, theory lessons and stimulator sessions ensure that you are always prepared for your flight.
The staff here is extremely knowledgeable. The food out here is delicious. The stay is comfortable. Looking forward to being back here.
Positive
Communication, Quality, Professionalism, Value
Amazing learning experience at Temple Pilots. I did the P1 course in 4 days, and the time spent there felt like 4 weeks. So many new experiences in just 4 days – be it meeting new and interesting people, the food there, the endless discussions and fun games, and ofcourse the paragliding training!
Speaking about paragliding training, I believe this is an international level school to embark your paragliding journey. Avi Sir is an institution by himself, and the trainers here are truly world class and also very friendly at the same time.
They put very high emphasis on safety of students, instructors and everyone around. Equipments used are of highest standards, and the reading material is also very good.
Finally, I would recommend everyone to try this amazing sport of Paragliding and if possible, choose Temple Pilots to embark your journey.
Have had such a beautiful experience to learn how to fly with Temple Pilots!! Their method of teaching, instructors, safety standards, comfort is beyond comparison. They make sure you’re absolutely ready, will not push you to do something that you don’t want to and will give you your space to be confident before progressing to the next step!! The equipment used is also very good and comfortable. The simulation practices are such a boon to make sure you get your posture and form correct on ground before you go on the site!! The owners Anita ma’am and Avi sir along with the instructors are very warm and welcoming. The hard work put in by each and every one of them just to make sure you learn how to fly correctly and safely is amazing! Not only that, the food is delicious and the accommodation is comfortable!
The vibe of the different people you meet there, coming from different backgrounds just to learn how to fly is incredible. You go there with the hope to fly and come out with wonderful memories attracting you again to go back and keep learning how to fly better! One can definitely go blindly and learn paragliding with them. An absolutely recommended school. Doubt if any other school is better than Temple Pilots.
I believe flying like a bird is a frontier desire for humans. And if you really want to achieve this, paragliding is the perfect avenue for it. It is a sport that gives you the full control yet you learn not to disrespect the control nature has on you. How thrilling is that feeling.
Learning paragliding has been super exciting for me. And Temple Pilots is the best university out here in India. A university is only as good as the teachers in it and these guys are top notch on that front. The guys with the best experience, the best attitude, and the guys that keep safety before any other consideration. The instructors at Temple Pilots will ensure that you learn the real basics and not push for cutting corners. Their course structure and course material is top notch. What tops all of this, how friendly and familial the people over there are.
If you really want to learn paragliding, there is no other place that you should look at.
Positive
Communication, Quality, Professionalism, Value
I had no clue what I was going to experience until I did my first solo flight.
Enrolling myself to the P1 course was the best decision I have made to spent my new year (2019). Without doubt, it was an amazing experience. The feeling, which i cant put it in words but can only be experienced. It was worth my time, money and efforts.
TIME: P1 (3 days course), Who flies in 3 days? I was more than happy I did my solo flight on the 2nd day (Yeah, pat on my back)
MONEY : P1 (15k)Totally worth it, again who provides flying lessons for few grands. These guys made flying so cheap. I would rather say thank you to Temple Pilots for the low pricing and making the resource available for everyone to experience the joy of flying. Guys, seize this opportunity before they put the price up.
EFFORTS : All I did was went with the flow. Believe me, that’s what the instructors taught me first “go with the flow, don’t resist it”. The efforts, the instructors put in to make you fit for flying is phenomenal. Matter of fact, I was always sacred of heights (yeah, me a little princess) not until I took my first solo flight (hell yeah). I was surprised to know the instructors were so professional and the best at what they do. Of course, i doubted their ability(my bad).They made me feel at my comfort zone and they were humble enough to answer my silly questions (this time, pat on their back). I was so moved with the overall experience and felt so unlucky that I didn’t had enough time to extend and enroll for P2 course. But life is all about staying positive and this is first on my to-do list when i visit home next time.
To the people who is reading my review. common guys, just get yourself out on the field and experience the true bliss of flying. Make your own memories and experience. You will never know, until you give it a try.
Most essential, the food and accommodation was way up to the mark. I couldn’t have ask for more (kaki is a fantastic cook).
So everybody, have a good time flying and spread the love.
A big shout-out to my family @temple pilots, thank you once again for introducing me to flying. The taste was really good :)
Avi Sir(Sarpanj), thank you and keep spreading the joy.
Neenad, thanks for capturing my memories.
Much love from another continent,
Jah bless.
