Uploaded August 2026 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
“They call it God’s Land…” The state of Uttarakhand in northern India is home to some of the highest and most remote mountains in the Indian Himalaya. It is an area that is rarely flown – and with good reason. A lack of paragliding infrastructure, complex valley systems, strict permit requirements and no medical assistance to speak of work together to create challenges that would send most pilots back to Bir.
When Ben Kellett and Matt Johnston headed here in early 2026 they had a clear objective: to explore the region and, if conditions allowed, to fly Nanda Devi (7,816m). An ambitious aim that would involve meticulous planning, high altitude flying and flying into areas that are rarely, if ever, explored from the air.
The thing that struck photographer and videographer Henry George was just how mentally resilient the pair are when it comes to this kind of flying. “Their ability to fly rough air over remote terrain but still make safe decisions was inspiring to see. It’s essential here, where any rescue would involve a two day wait, and any consequences amplified. Retaining that mental clarity to fly and make good decisions is essential.”
Soaring the Roof of India
Story and photography by Henry George
In Cross Country 267 (Aug/Sept 2026)
#paragliding
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Cross Country is the world’s international free flying magazine. Subscribers enjoy articles on new flying techniques, inspiring stories from across the world and deep dives into micro-meteorology, the latest equipment advances – and much more. As well as receiving eight premium quality issues, subscribers can access six Masterclass coaching sessions and discounts on merchandise, books, and flying accessories. Cross Country is a flying trip found nowhere else.
More info: xcmag.com
“They call it God’s Land…” The state of Uttarakhand in northern India is home to some of the highest and most remote mountains in the Indian Himalaya. It is an area that is rarely flown – and with good reason. A lack of paragliding infrastructure, complex valley systems, strict permit requirements and no medical assistance to speak of work together to create challenges that would send most pilots back to Bir.
When Ben Kellett and Matt Johnston headed here in early 2026 they had a clear objective: to explore the region and, if conditions allowed, to fly Nanda Devi (7,816m). An ambitious aim that would involve meticulous planning, high altitude flying and flying into areas that are rarely, if ever, explored from the air.
The thing that struck photographer and videographer Henry George was just how mentally resilient the pair are when it comes to this kind of flying. “Their ability to fly rough air over remote terrain but still make safe decisions was inspiring to see. It’s essential here, where any rescue would involve a two day wait, and any consequences amplified. Retaining that mental clarity to fly and make good decisions is essential.”
Soaring the Roof of India
Story and photography by Henry George
In Cross Country 267 (Aug/Sept 2026)
#paragliding
***
Cross Country is the world’s international free flying magazine. Subscribers enjoy articles on new flying techniques, inspiring stories from across the world and deep dives into micro-meteorology, the latest equipment advances – and much more. As well as receiving eight premium quality issues, subscribers can access six Masterclass coaching sessions and discounts on merchandise, books, and flying accessories. Cross Country is a flying trip found nowhere else.
More info: xcmag.com
