Nestling in the Kangra district of Himachal, Bir Billing as most of us know is the world’s second-highest Paragliding site.
It is also the location of the Bir Tibetan Colony, founded in the early 1960s as a settlement for Tibetan refugees after the 1959 Tibetan uprising.
To clear off the air, Bir billing as they are commonly referred to has its own importance; Billing which has the highest elevation of 8000ft is the take-off spot whereas Bir is the landing spot.
Who can do this trek?
This trek can be taken by any beginner as it’s a 14kms long trek. Its level is not difficult and one does not need a lot of endurance to climb up to Billing. If one does not want to trek, there’s also an option to reach the take-off spot by paying an extra amount.
The ideal time to visit Bir Billing
While September to October is considered a flying period, some of the hosts continue to provide this experience in the months of November and December as well.
How to reach?
Delhi: Arrive in Delhi, where you can board a bus in the evening from the Majnu ka Tilla stop. It’s an overnight journey that drops you at Bir the next morning. You can pre-book this bus journey.
For Mumbai: The best option both on budget and time is the train from Bandra terminus to Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway station. We boarded the train at 5 pm and it dropped us in Delhi by 12 pm the next day.
Alternatively, you can take a flight to Delhi and then commence the road journey.
Different Routes To Bir Billing:
- Chandigarh – Una – Jawalaji – Kangra – Palampur – Bir -Billing (310 km)
- Chandigarh – Bilaspur – Mandi – Jogindernagar – Bir-Billing (275 km)
- Manali – Mandi – Jogindernagar – Bir-Billing (180 km)
- Dharamshala – Palampur – Bir-Billing (70 km)
- Pathankot – Palampur – Bir-Billing (140 km)
By Bus
Baijnath is the nearest bus stand and it is 12 km from Bir. Buses ply daily from Delhi and Chandigarh.
By Train
The nearest railhead is at Pathankot, almost 100 km from Bir. There are regular trains from Delhi and other major cities.
And just before we wrap up, here is all you need to know about your expenditure for Paragliding in Bir Billing.
Bir Billing paragliding cost varies according to the type of flying. A normal tandem flying costs INR 1,500 onwards that allows you to fly for some 15 to 20 minutes. The operators often combine paragliding with trekking and camping options and hence the packages start from INR 5,500 onwards. Also, the courses which may last up to 9 days, are priced at INR 9,900 onwards.
Where to Stay?
Most of the time, paragliding operators arrange for the stay. However, if you are going on your own, here is a list of some good stay options in and around Bir Billing:
- Colonel’s Resort: Spacious, well-maintained, and has rooms and cottages with a built-in fireplace to rent
Tariff: INR 1,250 onwards - Bhawani Guest House: 9 comfortable rooms with attached bathrooms
Tariff: INR 300-700 for double rooms - Dharmalaya Institute: Family homestays with private rooms and long-term rentals.
- Chokling Guesthouse: Near Chokling Monastery, 16 rooms with attached bathrooms and solar-heated showers
Who to contact?
You can write to us at contact@geo-traveller.com and we would arrange the trip from Delhi to Delhi which includes a Bus journey and the entire trek.
How much does it cost?
To answer this, the trek costs INR 7000 from Delhi to Delhi.
Additionally, INR 2000 for Mumbai to Delhi train journey. (Non- AC)
Overall, a cost of approx. INR 11,000 for the entire journey from Mumbai to Mumbai.
*If you are planning to travel by flight the cost will vary*
What to expect?
- Bus journey
- Breakfast on Day 1 in Bir
- Lunch on Day 1 in Bir
- Dinner on Day 1 in Bir
- Tent stay with mattress in Billing
- A room to get fresh upon arrival in Bir
About our experience
Back in 2017, It was mid-November when we stepped out of our comfort zone, packed our belongings and left on a journey that we can never forget in our lives. Experiencing up above the world so high, witnessing the adrenaline rush while descending from the cliff, random walking onto the streets of Bir, everything felt amazing.
It’s a once in a lifetime experience, go and cherish every bit of it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Paragliding In Bir Billing
Q) Is Bir Billing Paragliding Open in December?
- Yes, Bir Billing is open for paragliding in December.
Q)What is the cost of paragliding in Bir Billing?
- The average cost of paragliding in Bir Billing is INR 2500.
Q) Is paragliding safe in Bir Billing?
- Bir Billing is one of the best destinations for paragliding in the world.
Q) When should I visit Bir Billing?
- Although it can be visited all through the year, March to May and October to November are best for paragliding.
Q) Is there any weight limit for paragliding?
- The weight limit depends on the paraglider and usually, the paragliders have a limit of 120 kgs.
Q) Can you paraglide in the rain?
- No, it isn’t advised to paraglide in rain, and one should totally avoid trying it.
Q) Does Bir have snow?
- No Bir doesn’t have snow as it is at a lower altitude but one can visit Billing to enjoy a snowfall that is at a higher altitude.
Q) How can I go to Bir Billing from Delhi?
- To reach Bir Billing one can take a bus from Majnu ka Tilla to Dharmshala and then hire a taxi or a local bus to Bir Billing.
Q) How far is Bir Billing from Dharamshala?
- Bir Billing is located at a distance of 68 km from Dharamshala.
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