In an adventurous attempt, NahidaManzoor, Managing Director of Pampoori and Daughters Adventure, has launched an exhilarating paragliding activity in the Barsoo area of South Kashmir’s Pulwama district.
Nahida, a mountaineer who summited Mount Everest in 2019, has been leading her adventure company for the past five years, bringing her passion for extreme sports to the scenic landscapes of Kashmir.
Hailing from the Zewan area of Pampore, Nahida initiated the paragliding venture after successful trials and thorough surveys of Barsoo village in the Awantipora area. “We visited Barsoo village multiple times and thoroughly surveyed the place,” she said, adding that the endeavour involved several trial runs conducted by trained pilots, which paved the way for the final approval from the district administration.
“The administration was very proactive and supported us in this endeavour,” Nahida added, expressing her gratitude for their assistance.
She said that the activity will run from 9 am to 5 pm and each day they plan to take off around 30 flights depending on the inflow of tourists.
Barsoo village, already designated as a tourist destination under the village tourism program, is expected to benefit significantly from this new activity.
Nahida highlighted the potential for paragliding to attract tourists to explore the natural landscape, thus bolstering the local economy.
“The activity will generate employment in the village and its surroundings,” she said.
Nestled in the mountainous terrain, the paragliding site offers an unmatched opportunity to soar above the breath-taking vistas of the Kashmir Valley, with the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas as a majestic backdrop.
Nahida appealed to adventure enthusiasts to visit and experience the beauty of Barsoo along the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway.
“I believe that the visit could provide invaluable insights into the potential of paragliding as a catalyst for sustainable tourism development in Kashmir,” she said, adding that their experienced pilots ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants, encouraging tourists to gain a deeper appreciation for the unique charm and allure of Pampore and its surroundings.
