India, Feb. 18 -- The skies above Panchgani have turned into a veritable battleground this week, as nearly 100 of the world's top paragliders take off daily from the tableland, marking the hill town's arrival on the global stage as a serious paragliding hub. Hosting the Paragliding World Cup from February 15 to 21, Panchgani is positioning itself not just as a scenic destination but as a technically demanding, winter flying site of international relevance.

For pilots accustomed to European circuits, Panchgani offers strong thermals, wide racing routes and relatively smooth air conditions ideal for high-level competition. "The climbs here are strong and clean, which is crucial when so many pilots are flying together," said Swiss pilot Dom...