Nestled in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India, Bir Billing is a fascinating community built around Tibetan culture and adventure-seeking activities. Here, you find adrenaline-pumping excitement with paragliding or meditative retreats around the monasteries. With these contrasting personalities, Bir Billing is a vacation retreat ripe with possibilities for all ages.
Trying the World-Famous Paragliding
Bir Billing's geography makes it a perfect location for paragliding. Essentially, paragliders take off from Billing, ride the thermals rising from the ground and land in the quaint town of Bir. Between Billing and Bir, there's more than a 2,500-foot elevation difference. With a spectacular view, paragliding here is perfect for newcomers and experienced people. Certainly, you have a choice of either tandem or solo rides based on your comfort and experience levels.
Discovering the Monasteries
Several Tibetan monasteries were built in Bir during the 1960s in response to the 1959 Tibetan uprising. Today, these sanctuaries thrive with Buddhist monks and followers visiting nearly every day. Certainly, each monastery has its own significance, architecture and following.
Discover two monasteries found in Bir, including Tsering Jong and Choukling. With ornate architecture and bright paint, these monasteries are operational year-round. Verify the monastery's hours and rules before venturing into these structures.
Enjoying Nature's Beauty
One of the most popular activities in Bir Billing is exploring nature. Hiking one of the many trails and camping overnight is an option, for example. Ideally, verify the weather forecast before heading outdoors. The spring and fall are optimal seasons for camping in moderate conditions.
Alternatively, seek out one of the waterfalls during a day hike. Because of the region's mountainous terrain, snow and runoff create gorgeous waterfalls in specific areas. Depending on your location, you may need to drive and walk to the waterfalls, too.
Traveling Into Bir Billing
Kangra Airport is the closest to Bir Billing. From here, take a bus or taxi to Bir. Once you arrive, walking or renting a scooter are the best ways to get around.
If you want a unique transport option, hop on the toy train. As an operational train, this comfortable transport can take you between Pathankot and Baijnath stations. With huge windows, the train gives you a picturesque view of the surrounding landscape.
Timing Your Visit Right
Typically, spring and fall offer the best weather in Bir Billing. During the spring, it's still cool and most cafes and shops are open. If you visit in the summer, many locals close during this time. The heat and monsoons make operations very limited.
However, if you enjoy a more quiet and solitary visit, summer might work for your itinerary. In truth, there are fewer visitors during the summer, too. In the fall, the rising thermals attract paragliding championships. Attending a competition is definitely a unique experience with plenty of locals and visitors enjoying the festivities.
Diving Into Tasty Diversions
Because of Bir Billing's growing tourism, many cafes have arisen across the community. In most cases, these cafes use local foods for their distinct menus. Masala, pastries, lentil bean burgers and coffee are just a few offerings at these cafes.
Naturally, tea is a staple here. Discover many different tea varieties, including lemonade tea, to hydrate your entire group. Luckily, many cafes are near Bir's paragliding landing point, so you can taste several items as you watch the colorful paragliders descend back to the ground.
Walking the Small Villages
To cap off your visit, discovering the villages in and around Bir Billing can get you closer to nature and away from the busier areas. For example, Keori has plentiful tea fields, whereas Gunehar offers tall trees and forest bathing. Be sure to stay on marked paths as you move through these small communities so that you respect the properties.
Knowing a few keywords or phrases in Hindi can be helpful here, too. Although many people speak English, trying the native language can help you with the locals. Indeed, some locals also speak Tibetan.
Ideally, schedule at least a week in Bir Billing to experience everything the region has to offer. Whether you rent a scooter or walk to every landmark, immersing yourself in the community enhances any trip. Simply book your lodging, transportation and activities in advance to make the most of your time.
