High above the rolling hills of Jammu, a quiet village is learning to fly.
Aithem — a tiny settlement tucked amid the Shivalik range, just a short drive from Jammu city — is fast becoming the new name on every adventure lover’s lips. What was once a peaceful hamlet surrounded by pine-covered slopes and whispering winds is now turning into one of India’s most exciting paragliding destinations.
Where the Sky Feels Close Enough to Touch
There’s something magical about Aithem’s skies. The moment you take off from its gentle cliffs, the earth falls away and the world opens up in a sweep of blue and green. Below, the Tawi River winds through dense forests; above, the Himalayas stand guard in the distance.
“It’s like flying through a dream,” says one local guide. “The air is calm, the view endless, and the silence — it feels alive.”
Jammu Finds Its Wings
For years, Jammu has been known for its temples, pilgrimage routes, and natural beauty. But now, it’s ready to show a different side — one that speaks to the spirit of adventure. The government’s tourism department has begun shaping Aithem into a world-class paragliding hub, complete with training centers, safety infrastructure, and dedicated launch sites.
The goal is simple yet ambitious: to put Jammu on India’s adventure tourism map, alongside destinations like Bir Billing and Manali. And with Aithem’s stunning geography and ideal wind conditions, that dream seems closer than ever.
The People Behind the Flight
For the people of Aithem, this transformation isn’t just about adrenaline and adventure — it’s about opportunity. Young locals are training as guides and instructors. Families are setting up small homestays and cafés to welcome travelers.
“There’s excitement in the air — literally,” laughs a resident. “For the first time, people from outside are coming here not just to visit, but to stay, to experience our home.”
Aithem: The Next Big Leap
As the first few paragliders soar across its valleys, Aithem stands at the edge of something extraordinary. It’s a place where the thrill of flying meets the calm of the mountains, where the sky feels close enough to touch, and where every glide tells a story of new beginnings.
Jammu’s Aithem isn’t just redefining paragliding — it’s redefining what it means to see India from above.
