Watch: Skyacking the Himalaya – A Four-Day Vol-Biv Adventure

British adventure pilot Ben Kellett has released a stunning film documenting his four-day vol-bivouac journey through the Indian Himalaya.

Starting from Bir Billing—India’s world-famous paragliding destination—Kellett embarked on a 350km journey entirely by paraglider. He followed the mountains east into Uttarakhand before looping back through Himachal Pradesh, flying and camping through some of northern India’s most spectacular terrain.

“Skyacking” the Landscape

The film’s title comes from Kellett’s description of moving through the mountains from the air. “Much like a kayaker follows a river, I followed invisible currents of rising air across the landscape,” he explains.

“Along the way, I spent countless hours flying alongside Himalayan vultures, sharing thermals and travelling through the mountains with some of the true masters of the sky.”

Vol-Biv Flying

Vol-bivouac (fly-camp) adventures represent the purest form of adventure flying—pilots carry minimal camping gear and fly cross-country for multiple days, landing to camp wherever the day ends.

The Indian Himalaya offer unique challenges and rewards: massive valleys, reliable afternoon thermals, and breathtaking scenery. But pilots must navigate changing weather, altitude, and remoteness.

Planning Your Own Adventure

Preparation is key for any vol-biv trip. Pilots need lightweight, reliable gear and solid flying skills. Practicing with a harness simulator can help refine harness control and build confidence before attempting multi-day flights.

Source: Cross Country Magazine