Yunlai Paragliding Flight Base in Yongsheng, Lijiang

Overview of Yunlai Paragliding Flight Base

Located near the picturesque Sanchuan Cuihu (三川翠湖) in Lijiang, the Yunlai Paragliding Flight Base is a top adventure destination. The base is about 50 minutes by car from Lijiang Ancient Town. It boasts a large landing field, making it the largest in Yunnan, covering a total area of 50 acres. The takeoff site is at an elevation of 2190 meters, and the landing site is at 1590 meters, with a 600-meter altitude difference, offering optimal flying conditions. The base has favorable wind conditions and allows for flying 340 days per year. The location is ideal for beginner training, paragliding certifications, and recreational flights.

Paragliding Experience at Yunlai Flight Base

The paragliding experience at Yunlai Paragliding Flight Base lasts approximately one hour, with about 10 minutes of airtime, although this can be extended if the wind conditions are favorable. The cost for the experience is 528 yuan per person per flight, which includes the site usage fee, instructor fee, insurance, equipment rental, training fee, and transportation to the base. Aerial photography services are available for an additional fee.

Visitors can drive to the base using navigation services, specifically searching for “Sanchuan Yunlai Paragliding Flight Base” (丽江三川云来滑翔伞飞行营地). For those needing transportation, paid rides (approximately 120 yuan round-trip per person) can be arranged through customer service.

Suitable Participants and Safety Guidelines

There are no age limits for the paragliding experience. However, individuals weighing over 180 kilograms must pay an additional 200 yuan for every 10 kg over the limit. People with heart conditions, high blood pressure, pregnant women, or those who have undergone surgery in the past three months are not eligible to participate.

Unique Features of the Yunlai Paragliding Base

According to Li Jianyuan, the chief instructor at Yunlai Paragliding Flight Base, the decision to establish the base in Sanchuan was due to the region’s stunning scenery and favorable geographical conditions. The base is located at an altitude of 2180 meters for takeoff and 1580 meters for landing, offering the perfect height for paragliding. The 600-meter vertical drop allows for longer flight times, as participants can soar over scenic areas such as rice paddies and lotus fields.

Increasing Popularity and Operational Success

With the recovery of the Lijiang tourism market, Yunlai Paragliding Flight Base has seen an increase in visitors. On peak days, the base has hosted up to 96 tourists. To ensure a high-quality experience, the number of visitors is limited to 100 per day. This growth has had a positive impact on the tourism development of Yongsheng County, attracting both adventure seekers and nature lovers.

Paragliding Safety and Accessibility

Paragliding is a safe sport with no age or physical restrictions. The lightweight equipment (weighing only 12-15 kilograms) makes it accessible to anyone in good health. While some may have concerns about safety, Yunlai Paragliding Flight Base ensures that all flights are conducted under safe conditions, with certified instructors monitoring weather and wind conditions. The base follows strict airspace regulations and has been approved by relevant government departments to ensure the safety of all participants.

Promoting Tourism and Environmental Benefits

In recent years, Lijiang has integrated traditional, cultural, historical, and regional resources into its tourism offerings. The introduction of paragliding adds a new dimension to Lijiang’s tourism, combining cultural exploration with adventurous activities. Paragliding is an eco-friendly sport, generating no noise or pollution, and does not contribute to traffic congestion. The base partners with local homestays and farmhouses, where visitors can enjoy authentic meals while appreciating the beautiful surroundings of Sanchuan. Tourists can also explore nearby attractions such as Chenghai Lake (程海) and experience the area’s culture by self-driving through the region.

The introduction of this new tourism activity has positively impacted the local economy, making it a sustainable and environmentally friendly form of tourism that continues to grow in popularity.