Shimla Flying Festival and Hospitality Expo 2025 to Begin on October 25

Fifteen international paragliders from seven countries to participate

The third edition of the Shimla Flying Festival and Hospitality Expo 2025 is set to kick off on October 25, featuring 15 international paragliders from around seven countries and nearly 70 national participants.

The festival will be inaugurated by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.

Addressing a press conference in Shimla, festival organizer and founder of The Glide Inn Adventure Resort, Arun Rawat, said, “Through this festival, we aim to showcase the spirit of community, courage, and collaboration — placing Himachal on the global adventure map while promoting local enterprises. The event is designed to blend adventure with culture, promote sustainable tourism, empower local businesses, and inspire a new generation of adventure enthusiasts across the state.”

Rawat added, “This will be a historic celebration for India, as it marks the first time the Pre-World Cup and Pre-Asian League Paragliding Championships are being held together in the country. The goal is to establish Shimla as a premier global adventure destination and position Himachal Pradesh as a leading hub for international air sports and eco-tourism.”

He also announced that top-ranked pilots from China will participate in the championship for the first time.

The accompanying Hospitality Expo will feature over 60 stalls from micro, small, and self-help groups (SHGs) across Himachal Pradesh, showcasing organic foods, wellness products, handicrafts, eco-friendly innovations, and traditional Himachali goods. The expo aims to provide a platform for rural entrepreneurship, MSMEs, and women-led ventures.

Rawat said that several prominent personalities from the state will attend the festival. On October 25, renowned Pahari singer Kuldeep Sharma, popularly known as “The Nati King,” will perform live, while former WWE superstar and wrestling icon The Great Khali (Dalip Singh Rana) will make a special appearance on October 26 to promote fitness and adventure sports among youth.

The closing ceremony will be attended by Shimla (Urban) MLA Harish Janartha and Dr. Rajneesh, Additional Secretary and Development Commissioner, MSME.