If you’re picturing a place where green hills roll into blue skies and Tibetan flags flutter in the breeze, then you’re thinking of Bir Billing in Himachal Pradesh. Famous as the “Paragliding Capital of India,” Bir Billing is much more than just a destination for thrill-seekers. This small Himachali village in Kangra district is all about the slow life in the mountains, spirituality, and a long standing heritage that reverberates in the surroundings with chanting monks, forest trails, and some of the best Himachali food you’ll ever taste.
Delhi to Bir Billing
Bir Billing is about 500km away from Delhi, depending on your route, and the journey itself is so rewarding. You can drive, take a Volvo bus (the most popular option), or hop on a train till Pathankot/Una and then catch a taxi or local bus. Expect about 10–12 hours on the road, with lovely bits winding through Punjab and then up into the Dhauladhar foothills.
Bir Billing is easily accessible by road, with good connectivity to nearby popular destinations like Dharamshala and Dalhousie. The scenic drive through the mountains adds to the charm, offering smooth connectivity for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Bir and Billing are two points on a single route: Billing is the take-off site for paragliding, 14km uphill from Bir. Most stays, cafes, and monasteries are in Bir, while all the flying happens in Billing.
Bir Billing Paragliding
The fact is paragliding in Bir Billing is world-class. The take-off site at Billing (2,400m above sea level) lets you soar above misty hills, villages, rivers, and forests. Tandem flights are available for everyone; including total newbies! You’ll fly with an experienced pilot, and the rush of air and the views of snow-capped Dhauladhar mountains will make you feel alive in a way nothing else ever does.
Paragliding Landing Site in Bir
Best time for paragliding? March-June and September-November, when thermals are best, and the skies are clear. October is especially great, with the Paragliding Pre-world Cup event turning the valley festive.
Pro tip: Wear sneakers, sunglasses, and a light jacket (it can get cold up there!). Book slots ahead in peak season and check the weather before you fly.
Heritage, Nature & More: Things To Do and Places to Visit
Bir Billing isn’t only for adrenaline chasers; here’s what else you’ll love doing in this quaint town:
- Chokling Monastery & Tsering Jong Monastery: Painted prayer halls, large stupas, and peaceful grounds where you can watch monks chanting or meditate yourself. Don’t miss sunset at Chokling Monastery and watch those gold rooftops catch every last ray.
- Bir Tea Factory: Learn how your favorite morning cup is made. Buy fresh Himachali tea, and get an insider’s look at the plucking and drying process.
- Deer Park Institute: Take up yoga, meditation, or short courses on Buddhist philosophy; perfect for travellers seeking a more meaningful break.
- Gunehar Waterfalls: An easy hike from Bir village brings you to these pretty cascading waters; a great spot for photos, splashing about, and picnics.
- Dharmalaya Institute: Surrounded by forests, it offers workshops in sustainable living, organic farming, and crafts.
- Rajgundha Valley Trek: Adventure lovers can hike through forests and untouched villages to Rajgundha, connecting with nature on ancient shepherd trails.
- Baijnath Temple: An ancient stone shrine to Lord Shiva, this temple oozes history and a sense of healing, all set along the banks of River Tirthan.
- Bir Bazaar & Cafes: Shop local handicrafts, munch on momos and thukpa, or find a tree-side table for coffee and cake at one of Bir’s many pretty cafes.
Staying in Bir Billing
- Guesthouses and Homestays: Most are Tibetan-influenced, super clean, and come with mountain breakfasts. Popular picks include Zostel Bir, The Hosteller, Shivalaya Homestay, and Bir Resort.
- Eco-lodges & Retreats: Perfect for longer stays; quiet, usually nestled in tea gardens or forest edges. Ask about yoga sessions or hiking guides.
- Hotels: Book in advance in peak months. Local staff help arrange paragliding, sightseeing, and transport.
Bir is very safe, friendly, and easy for solo travellers, couples, or families.
When To Go & How to Prepare
- Best time to visit Bir Billing: March-June and mid-September-November. Avoid July-August; rain closes flying and makes trails muddy as well as risky.
- Packing Tips: Layers are best; mountain sun is strong, but evenings get cold. Good walking shoes, a water bottle, power bank, and a book for long quiet evenings. Don’t forget sunscreen and snacks as well.
- Cash: Always carry some. Cards are accepted at bigger stays/cafes but not everywhere.
- Network: Jio and Airtel work fine; some remote zones may be patchy.
What Makes Bir Billing in Himachal Pradesh Special
This isn’t your crowded hill station; Bir Billing is peaceful, home to Himachalis and Tibetan refugees building a community of adventure and simplicity. Every café, homestay, and prayer hall is run by people who smile easily and welcome strangers as friends. Tibetan food, mountain hikes, breezy bicycle rides, and honest conversations; that’s the real stuff here.
And when your flight (paragliding) lands gently in a sunlit field, or when you sit by the prayer flags listening to the wind, you’ll know Bir Billing has quietly become your own.
Whether you’re coming from Delhi to Bir Billing, learning how to glide with the eagles, or exploring ancient temples and green forests, this pocket of Himachal Pradesh gives you the taste of real adventure wrapped in the warmth of heritage. Come for the flying, stay for the people; you won’t forget Bir Billing ever.
By: Anushka Singhal