Shimla to host Pre-World Cup & Pre-Asian League paragliding championships from Oct 25

The ‘Queen of Hills’, Himachal’s Shimla, will host the Paragliding Pre-World Cup and Pre-Asian League Championship, beginning on October 25, alongside the Shimla Flying Festival and Hospitality Expo 2025. Founder of The Glide Inn Adventure Resort and organiser of the Shimla Flying Festival, Arun Rawat, announced the event in Shimla on Wednesday.

He said this landmark initiative would firmly place Himachal Pradesh on the global adventure tourism map.

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“Actions speak louder than words. Through this festival, we want to demonstrate the power of community, courage and collaboration in putting Himachal on the world adventure map while uplifting local enterprises,” Rawat said.

He added that the festival aims to create a confluence of adventure, culture, and commerce through sustainable tourism while empowering local businesses and inspiring the next generation of adventure enthusiasts in Himachal Pradesh.

“This is a historic moment for India as it marks the first time ever that a Pre-World Cup and Pre-Asian League Paragliding Championships are being held together in the country. The festival aims to establish Shimla as a premier global destination for adventure tourism, promoting Himachal Pradesh as a leading hub for international air sports and eco-tourism,” Rawat said.

The championship will see participation from pilots representing more than seven countries. Notably, the top-ranked pilot from China will take part for the first time — a milestone highlighting India’s growing stature on the global paragliding circuit.

The event will also showcase Shimla as a world-class destination for adventure sports and high-altitude flying.

Running parallel to the championship, the Hospitality Expo 2025 will feature over 60 small, micro, and self-help groups (SHGs) from across Himachal Pradesh. The expo will present a vibrant display of organic foods, wellness products, handicrafts, eco-friendly innovations, and traditional Himachali offerings, providing a strong platform for rural entrepreneurship, MSME promotion, and women-led enterprises.

Adding to the excitement, the festival will feature special celebrity and dignitary appearances. On October 25, celebrated folk icon Kuldeep Sharma, popularly known as ‘The Nati King’, will perform live.

International wrestling legend Daleep Singh Rana, The Great Khali, will make a special appearance on October 26. The valedictory ceremony on October 28 will be attended by Shimla MLA Harish Janartha and Dr. Rajnish, Additional Secretary and Development Commissioner, MSME.

The Shimla Flying Festival and Hospitality Expo 2025 is being organised by The Glide Inn Adventure Resort, Junga, in collaboration with the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Department, the District Administration, and the Ministry of MSME, Government of India.