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Discover Bir Billing: A Paraglider's Dream
Nestled in the heart of Himachal Pradesh, Bir Billing is not just a destination; it’s a journey to the clouds. As the paragliding capital of India, Bir Billing offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, ideal wind conditions, and the perfect launching and landing sites. There is no direct flight or rail connectivity to Bir. The best way to reach Bir is by taking an overnight bus private from Delhi to Bir. Ahju railway station is the nearest railway station, which is only 3 km. away from Bir, although the nearest broad gauge railway station is in Pathankot, which is 142.2 km.
Visit HRTC website to book Govt. volvo buses Delhi to/ Bir. Here are few buses I have taken to reach Bir in my previous journeys
| Volvo buses from Delhi to Bir Billing or nearby. | |||
| S.no | From/ to | Time for departure | Fare |
| 1 | Manju ka tila, Delhi / Bir. (Northern Travels) | 1900 hrs. | ₹ 1200-1800. |
| 2 | Manju ka tila, Delhi / Bir (Luxmi Holidays) | 2000 hrs. | ₹ 1200-1800. |
| 3 | Delhi ISBT Kashmiri Gate / Bir (HRTC) | 1848 hrs. | ₹ 1200-1800. |
| 4 | Delhi ISBT Kashmiri Gate / Jogindernagar (HRTC – Deboard at Bir road, which is 2 km away from Bir) | 2146 hrs. | ₹ 1200-1800. |
| 5 | Delhi ISBT Kashmiri Gate / Bir (HRTC) | 2029 hrs | ₹ 1200-1800 |
| 6 | Delhi ISBT Kashmiri Gate / palampur (HRTC- Deboard at Palampur, which is 30 km away from Bir) | 2155 hrs | ₹ 1200-1800 |
| 7 | Delhi ISBT Kashmiri Gate / palampur (HRTC- Deboard at Palampur, which is 30 km away from Bir) | 2240 hrs | ₹ 1200-1800 |
| 8 | Delhi ISBT Kashmiri Gate / palampur (HRTC- Deboard at Palampur, which is 30 km away from Bir) | 0700 hrs | ₹ 1200-1800 |
The Thrill of Paragliding in Bir Billing: Why It's a Must-Do
What makes Bir Billing stand out in the world of paragliding? Is it the sheer height of the launch site at 2400 meters, the long flying seasons, or the stunning aerial views of the Dhauladhar ranges? It’s all this and more. Bir Billing holds the record for hosting the first ever Paragliding World Cup, attracting thrill-seekers from across the globe.
It is the second highest Paragliding site with a vertical drop of ~1000 metres from its take off site in Billing to the landing site in Bir. With modern gliders, this will help you in glide through one of the most surreal experiences of your life. You can see all the paragliders in the sky whenever you are sitting and enjoying the sunset that Bir’s sunset offers, one of the most beautiful I have ever experienced.
Taking Flight: The Cost of Paragliding in Bir Billing
Whether you’re seeking a tandem flight experience or aiming to master solo flights, Bir Billing offers options for every budget. Tandem flights typically range from ₹2,500 to ₹3,500, while training courses and solo flight costs can vary widely.
However, if you want to take a Solo Paragliding/Paragliding courses (Most fun and recommended ) it can cost you upto ₹25,000 for a week logn course that gives you a P1 and P2 license, where you do the ground training and first 2-3 solo flights.
Top Paragliding Schools in Bir Billing: Where to Learn from the Best
Ready to learn from the best? Bir Billing is home to several top-rated paragliding schools, offering everything from beginner courses to advanced training. Accredited by the Paragliding Association of India, these schools ensure safety and top-notch instruction.
- TT School of paragliding
- Skylark school of paragliding
- Billing paul adventures by Arvind Paul
Best Eateries in Bir Billing: Where to Refuel After Flying
From traditional Tibetan dishes to international cuisines, Bir Billing’s eateries offer the perfect settings to refuel and reflect on your sky-high adventures. Don’t miss the cozy cafes with breathtaking mountain views. Here are few of my favourites.
- The Silver Lining cafe : Best food but a bit on expensive end
- Avva’s Cafe : Avva’s specialises in southern Indian delicacies. Specifically dosa, uttapam and idli.
- Secret garden : Boasts about the best butter chicken in Bir
- Bhoomi Cafe : One of my all time favourites, love the authentic good food and wide range of food. Must try.
Cozy Stays in Bir Billing: From Hostels to Luxury Resorts
Whether you’re backpacking or looking for luxury, Bir Billing has accommodations to suit every taste and budget. Experience the warmth of Himachali hospitality with our top picks for places to stay by choosing these hostels.
- Zostel Bir
- TLO Hostel
- Flashpackers Hostel
- GoStops
- The Bunker Hostel
- Bir Nest
- Whoopers Hostel (Forever favourite of mine )
- The hosteller
- Cosmic Kriya
- Little Bir
- Madpackers
- Little Bir
For long term stays, you can check out here for the homestays. These homestays provide cheap tariffs and travellers who do work from mountains or a solace retreat prefer it a lot.
Beyond Paragliding: Unmissable Activities in Bir Billing
While the skies of Bir Billing offer unmatched thrills for paragliding enthusiasts, the land below is a mosaic of culture, tranquility, and natural beauty. Here’s a guide to the must-visit places in Bir Billing that offer a deep dive into its heritage, serene beauty, and the vibrant tapestry of local life.
1. Deer Park Institute: A Sanctuary of Wisdom
Immerse yourself in the classical Indian traditions of wisdom at the Deer Park Institute. Founded in 2006 with the blessings of the Dalai Lama, this tranquil haven offers sessions on meditation, art, Buddhist philosophy, and more, all set amidst beautiful pagodas. It’s more than just a place; it’s a journey into holistic mind development. Your trip to Bir Billing isn’t complete without soaking in the tranquility here.
- Timings: 9 am -12 pm; 2 pm – 6 pm
2. Bir Tea Factory: The Essence of Himalayan Brew
Witness the art of tea-making and learn about the contributions of rural women to this age-old tradition. The Bir Tea Factory isn’t just a place to observe; it’s an experience, offering you a chance to stroll through lush tea gardens and shop for the freshest tea leaves and bags. The aroma of the tea and the natural beauty of the gardens provide a sensory experience unlike any other.
- Visiting Hours: Open to visitors at any time.
3. Sunset View at Bir Landing Site
Capture the breathtaking beauty of sunrise and sunset at the Bir Landing Site. This spot offers a panoramic view of serene meadows and valleys, ideal for those peaceful moments of reflection. For a perfect evening, grab a coffee from The Northern Cafe and watch as the sky paints itself in hues of orange and pink.
4. Chokling Monastery: A Glimpse into Tibetan Culture
No visit to Bir Billing is complete without experiencing the spiritual and architectural grandeur of the Chokling Monastery. Home to the majestic statue of Padmasambhava and known for its intricate decorations, the monastery is a testament to Tibetan history and culture. Located close to the Landing Site, it provides a serene backdrop of the surrounding hills.
- Timings: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
5. Dharmalaya Institute: For Sustainable Living
Engage with the principles of sustainable living at the Dharmalaya Institute. This eco-campus is dedicated to environmental awareness, offering workshops on yoga, meditation, and sustainable village development. It’s a place where you can learn to live in harmony with nature while contributing to the local community’s well-being.
- Timings: Open for guided tours every Saturday at noon. Registration required for non-participants.
Each of these destinations in Bir Billing offers a unique experience, promising to enrich your visit far beyond the thrill of paragliding. Whether it’s the pursuit of wisdom, an appreciation for traditional crafts, the serene beauty of nature, or a deep dive into sustainable living, Bir Billing is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.
Any doubts? Check our FAQs
Do drop any thing in comments if you are still not sure
Though paragliding in Bir Billing is conducted throughout the year, the ideal time to visit is between October and December to get calm winds.
Precautions-
· Always be accompanied by a trained pilot.
· Check your equipment for flaws. Have them inspected regularly.
· Fly in clear weather.
· Assess the flying site before taking off.
The minimum weight ranges from 15 to 95 kg. If you weigh over 95 kg, but under 115 kg, you can fly only after paying an extra fee.