Located in the heart of Himachal Pradesh, Bir Billing is not only a picturesque place—it is an adventure paradise, a peace haven, and a spiritual refuge for travelers. Banned as the paragliding capital of India, this unexplored but exhilarating hill town has something unique to offer as a confluence of nature, culture, and adrenaline.
Whether you’re running after clouds or having Tibetan butter tea at a warm café, Bir Billing makes a mark in your soul. In this blog, let’s find out what makes this small Himalayan village a place one must visit in Himachal.
Where Is Bir Billing Located?
Bir Billing is a twin town, made up of Bir Village and Billing, 14 km uphill. Billing is the take-off point for paragliding, while Bir is the landing point and the central village where most of the cafes, monasteries, homestays, and tourists can be found.
Situated at a height of 5,000 feet (Bir) to 8,000 feet (Billing), it is situated in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, approximately 70 km from Dharamshala.
Why Visit Bir Billing?
1. World-Class Paragliding Experience
If there’s anything Bir Billing is renowned for globally, it is paragliding. The venue became world-famous after hosting the Paragliding World Cup in 2015.
With perfect wind speeds, stunning vistas of the Dhauladhar ranges, and well-trained pilots, it provides the most exhilarating and safest paragliding ride in India.
🪂 Optimum paragliding time: March–June and October–November
⏳ Flight time: 15–30 minutes
💸 Approximate cost: ₹2,000–₹3,000 per flight (with GoPro videos covered in most packages)
2. The Magical Tibetan Culture
Bir is also inhabited by a lively Tibetan population, and so one can see in its monasteries, Buddhist stupas, Tibetan restaurants, and even in the tranquility prevailing there.
Must-visit places:
Chokling Monastery – for its serene atmosphere and huge Padmasambhava statue
Palpung Sherabling Monastery – situated deep in the forest, ideal for meditation and spiritual cleansing
Deer Park Institute – a philosophical and arts center for Indians, providing lectures, courses, and serene retreats
3. Cafes That Will Steal Your Heart
If you are one of those who prefers to spend time working from home, writing, or simply relishing good food in lovely cafes, Bir is perfect for you.
Top cafes to visit:
June 16 Café – Excellent views, delicious pizza, and welcoming atmosphere
Silver Linings Café – Warm indoor-outdoor dining with some of the best town coffee
Garden Café and Restaurant – Famous for its organic cuisine and serene garden atmosphere
Bypass Road Café – A paraglider and backpacker favorite
These cafes double as co-working spaces, courtesy of the stable Wi-Fi and relaxed atmosphere.
4. Nature Walks and Treks
Bir Billing is not only about flying—it’s heaven for trekkers and nature enthusiasts too. There are a few treks through pine groves, tea plantations, and small Himachali villages.
Recommended short treks:
Billing to Rajgundha Village – An easy 8 km trek via picturesque sights and peaceful trails
Bir to Bangoru Waterfall – A small hike ideal for an early morning walk
Trekking till Billing – Alternatively, you can also trek till Billing and paraglide back down
5. Scenic beauty and peaceful vibes
Bir Billing is the perfect choice for people who want to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s less commercialized compared to Manali or Shimla, so you can actually soak in the peace and nature.
From sunrise mornings that color the sky pink and gold to starry nights, each instant here is cinematic.
Things to Do in Bir Billing
✅ Paragliding (duh!)
✅ Participate in meditation/yoga retreats at Deer Park Institute
✅ Mountain biking through tea estates and forest trails
✅ Camping at Billing with starry skies
✅ Visit local monasteries
✅ Taste Tibetan cuisine such as momos, thukpa, tingmo, and butter tea
✅ Purchase handicrafts and woolens from Bir Bazaar
How to Reach Bir Billing
✈️ By Air: Gaggal (Dharamshala) is the nearest airport, 68 km away. Taxis are readily available.
🚆 By Train: Nearest broad-gauge station is Pathankot, then a toy train to Ahju (3 km from Bir) or a taxi.
🚌 By Bus: Overnight Volvo buses can be taken from Delhi, Chandigarh, and Dharamshala to Bir (via Baijnath or Palampur).
Where to Stay in Bir Billing?
Bir has something for all budgets—backpacker hostels to luxury eco-lodges.
Hostels: Zostel, goStops, The Bunker
Homestays: Moustache Bir, Ilaka Homestay, The Himaal
Luxury/Eco Stays: Camp Oak View, Tatva Bir Tents & Resorts
Many of these stays have mountain views, bonfires, yoga lessons, and even in-house cafes.
Best Time to Visit Bir Billing
Bir Billing has something for every month of the year, but the best time is:
🌸 March to June: Comfortable weather, best for paragliding and site seeing
🍁 October to November: Clear sky, best for flying and views
❄️ December to February: Chilly with possibilities of snow in Billing (not suitable for paragliding)
Safety and Travel Tips
⚠️ Always book paragliding with licensed operators.
🧥 Bring warm clothing, particularly in the evening.
🚯 Don’t litter—Bir is a clean and responsible travel destination.
🛍️ Support local and environmentally friendly businesses.
📶 Internet is good, but can get slow at peak times.
Final Thoughts
If you’re an adrenaline seeker, a solo adventurer seeking meaning, a couple in search of romantic sunsets, or a family hoping to experience the less-touristy side of Himachal—Bir Billing is where you want to go.
It’s one of those magical places that provides you with thrill, peace, and cultural depth, wrapped in one gorgeous Himalayan package.
So pack your bags, book that paragliding appointment, and prepare to fly across the sky. Bir Billing is waiting—and believe us, you don’t want to miss this flight!
Written with love by Wander Vistas — Your window to soulful travels in Himachal Pradesh and beyond.
