Himachal Pradesh is home to many hilly towns that provide both peaceful scenery and exciting activities. Bir Billing is one such place that is becoming popular for its paragliding of international standards. Apart from adventure and thrill, this little town is famous for its nature, calm and a blend of adrenaline & nature. Although it has turned into a place of preference for people with a passion for adventures, it still, however, manages to be a less-visited spot among the masses of travellers.
The charm of Bir Billing
Bir Billing is a mountain town in the Himalayas, and it’s widely known as the main hub of paragliding in India. The hill town is situated in the Kangra district. The palace has an amazing combination of Tibetan culture, incredible views, and adventure sports, which are luring tourists from every corner of the globe. The hillside town is very quiet, and that is why the tourists are able to connect with nature.
A favourite among adventure seekers
Bir Billing is a magnet for crazy thrill seekers, not only from India but also from foreign countries. The major attraction in this town is paragliding, and the area is great for flying over the mountains, ravines, and forests. Those who are into adventure sports have little choice but to put this place on their must-visit list as the sports are gradually developing here.
Location that enhances the experience
Bir happens to be the place where the landing will be done, while the takeoff will be from Billing, which is about 14 kilometres away, uphill. Therefore, the height and clear sky area make a perfect place for paragliding activities that are safe and without incidents. Being in the lap of nature certainly adds to the pleasure and lets one feel truly free.
World-class paragliding destination
Bir Billing’s worldwide fame and name came after it hosted the Paragliding World Cup. With this acknowledgement, the small town took a huge step up on the global adventure tourism map. The place is said to be ideal by the paragliders as the winds are very supportive and the land is quite diverse, but not too challenging.
Training and safety measures
The paragliding operators at Bir Billing follow the safety standards and provide the necessary instructions to their customers. The activity is available to both new people and experienced ones. Safety is always the main concern, hence three different levels are always taken into account: tandem flight with a skilled pilot, training for beginners, and contacting only licensed operators for those flights. Thus, first-timers can have tandem flights with trained pilots in the safest scenarios. Definitely, it is very necessary to choose licensed operators for your safety.
Visit to monasteries
The town of Bir is famous for marvellous architecture and religious places like Sherab Ling Monastery, Chokling Monastery, and Nyingyang Monastery. With various adventurous activities, this palace, at the same time, gives travellers a chance to experience a quiet life. Tourists visit this palace to meditate and find peace from their daily hectic lives.
Scenic hiking and nature walks.
Bir Billing is surrounded by woods and mountains and is the perfect place for short rambles and nature walks. Travellers may as well walk to the remote areas, rivers, and the viewpoints besides doing the Rajgundha trek or attending the Gunehar waterfall, which is very popular among nature lovers.
Camping under the stars
Camping is only possible in a different manner in Bir Billing. The hills are dotted with innumerable camping sites where tourists can spend their night under the stars. The cool air, the warm bonfire and the night sky together spell a great time for the campers. Most camping packages also have meals and adventure activities included in them.
Mountain biking fun
Mountain biking is an activity that has been gaining popularity in Bir Billing. The trails around the town provide challenging routes for cycling fans. Cyclists can take up the trails that lead through the woods and beautiful nature to discover the hidden gems. Riding excursions can be hired or scheduled with local adventure groups.
Cafes and local food culture
Bir has a lovely café culture with rooftop and garden cafes where a blend of Tibetan, Himachali and continental cuisine is served. Local foods such as Thukpa, Momos, Siddu and Tibetan bread should definitely be tasted by the visitors. Many travellers find these charming cafes perfect for working, taking a break or socializing.
Perfect for solo travellers
This place is great if you are a solo traveller. The town of Bir Billing is safe and secure. Travellers can have a great time at this palace without worrying about anything. This place is also safe for solo female travellers. Locals here are friendly to tourists. This place is surrounded by peaceful nature. The small-town atmosphere makes solo trips very comfortable. Travellers across the world visit this place, making it easier to socialize and interact with different people.
Photography and bewitching nature
A trip to the town of Bir Billing is a fantasy land for photographers of any kind. The sunrises and sunsets, nature at its best with green valleys, red and yellow monasteries, and paragliders flying in the blue sky, can all be admired from this town. Making excellent photographs and seeing this city through the camera is possible in numerous ways.
A place for spiritual retreats
Once, Bir Billing has been the serene destination worth the trip, it is slowly turning into a hub for Spiritual retreats with a huge variety of Monasteries, Meditation centres, and Yoga retreats waiting to be explored by tourists. The tourists may sign up for sessions of meditation, yoga, or silent retreats for bonding with their inner selves. Moreover, the closeness of nature makes the whole experience more calming.
Shopping for local handicrafts
Markets of Bir are full of beautiful Tibetan handicrafts like jewellery, woollen garments, and paintings. Tourists/Visitors love purchasing the products made by hand as mementoes. Small enterprises and artists who propagate the culture are also supported by the local markets.
Why Bir Billing excels
Bir Billing is special in the sense that, along with adventure, it provides the spiritual quotient, serenity, nature, and culture as well. Since it is less commercialised compared to the other Himachal towns, it is actually quite a relief for those travellers who are seeking something new. Bir provides unforgettable experiences without the maddening tourist rush.
The future of this little gem
As more travellers tend towards offbeat and responsible travelling, Bir Billing will most likely be at the top of their to-visit places. The task would be to maintain its pristine beauty along with supporting the tourism sector. Conscious travelling and responsible tourism will be the causes for maintaining the long-term glory of this hideaway for future travellers.
