Billing is a village located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is famous for its paragliding and trekking activities. The town is situated at an altitude of 2,400 metres (7,874 ft) above sea level and is the highest point in Himachal Pradesh. It is located about 65 km (40 mi) from the town of Dharamshala and is home to various flora and fauna. The main activity here is adventure sports such as paragliding and rock climbing. Billing is also becoming more popular as a tourist destination. It offers stunning views of the Dhauladhar mountain range and a serene, peaceful ambience with lush green hills and flowing streams. Besides paragliding and hang-gliding, visitors can enjoy trekking, mountain biking, camping, bird watching and sightseeing. The popular places to visit here are Bir Tea and Tibetan Colony, Bir billing lake and many monasteries. The site offers some of the best thermals and conditions for paragliding. It is also the site of the annual Paragliding World Cup, which is held every year in October. Bir-Billing offers great conditions for both beginners and experienced pilots alike. The best time for paragliding in Bir-Billing is from mid-April to mid-June when the thermals are strong and the weather is good. The site also offers tandem flights for those who want to experience paragliding without having to learn the sport.
Best Time To Visit Bir Billing:
Bir Billing is an ideal location for paragliding and a brilliant getaway for those looking for peace amidst picturesque landscapes and mesmerizing views.
The best time to visit and Paraglide in Bir Billing is during the summer months from March-May when the weather is pleasant and temperatures range between 17-30 degree Celsius. The summer months also provide clear visibility, which is crucial for a successful paragliding experience. The winter season offers a surreal experience of paragliding as the temperature can reach below zero at night and the views are beautiful due to the snowcapped mountains. The monsoon season should also be avoided due to unfavourable weather conditions. Monsoon starts in July and is the worst time to visit Bir Billing as the weather is cold and wet with cloudy skies and frequent rainfall.
How to reach Bir Billing:
Bir Billing can be reached by the following three routes:
By Air: Bir Billing is connected to the rest of India by various flights. The closest airport is Kangra Airport (DHBK), located in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, which is 3 hours away from Bir Billing.
By Train: There are no direct trains to Bir Billing. The closest train station is Pathankot railway station, located in Pathankot, Punjab, which is 80 km away from Bir Billing.
By Road: Bir Billing can be easily accessed by road via the Himachal Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (HRTC), and there are regular bus services from Dharamshala, Chandigarh, Manali, and Delhi to Bir Billing.
Hired Taxi: Hired taxi services are available from Dharamshala, Pathankot, Shimla, and other cities to reach Bir Billing.
Delhi To Bir Billing:
By Air: The nearest airport from Bir Billing is located in Dharamshala at a distance of approximately 230 km. There are no direct flights for Bir Billing from Delhi. The nearest international airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi and Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun.
By Train: The nearest railway station from Bir Billing is located at Amb Andaura which is a railway station located on the Pathankot-Joginder Nagar railway line. It is at a distance of 102 km from Bir Billing. The closest major railway station is Pathankot Junction which is at a distance of 126 km.
By Road: Bir Billing is well connected to Delhi by road. You can take a direct bus from Delhi to Bir Billing. The total distance between Delhi to Bir Billing is 486 km by road. It takes around 11 hours to reach Bir Billing from Delhi.
Chandigarh To Bir Billing:
By Flight: The nearest airport to reach Bir Billing is the Gaggal airport, which is located approximately 150 km away from Bir.
By Train: The nearest railway station to reach Bir Billing is Pathankot Railway Station and it is situated at a distance of 130 km from Bir.
By Bus: There are regular buses from Chandigarh to Bir. The journey by bus usually takes about 8-9 hours.
Places to Visit Near Bir Billing:
Palampur: Palampur is a beautiful hill station in the Kangra Valley of Himachal Pradesh. It is surrounded by the majestic Dhauladhar mountain range and the serene Beas river flows through the valley. Palampur is famous for its lush green tea gardens, pine forests, and breathtaking views of the Himalayas. The town is a popular destination for trekking, camping and other outdoor activities. The rolling tea gardens, pine forests and ancient temples offer a perfect backdrop for adventure and relaxation. The town is also home to several traditional Tibetan monasteries and Buddhist temples. Palampur also has a rich cultural heritage and several beautiful old buildings from British colonial times.
Bhagsu Waterfall: Bhagsu Waterfall is one of the most popular waterfalls in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is nestled in the lush green mountains of the Kangra Valley and is surrounded by full of greenery and immense beauty. The Bhagsu Waterfall cascades down from a height of 20 meters and is a popular destination among tourists and locals alike. The Bhagsu Waterfall originates from the Bhagsu nag temple and is situated near the famous Shiva cafe. It offers a great opportunity to take a refreshing dip in the cold majestic waterfall. Visitors can also explore the beautiful tea- and- fruit gardens of the region and try the delicious local cuisines. For those looking for an adventure, the Bhagsu Waterfall provides activities like rappelling and rock climbing. It is a perfect place for a picnic and yogis can enjoy meditation as well.
Dharamshala: Dharamshala is a hill station located in the northwestern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its cool climate and scenic views of the snow-capped Himalayan mountains. It is also the home of the Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, and the Tibetan government-in-exile, whose headquarters are located near the city. In addition to its many monasteries and temples, Dharamshala also offers plenty of activities and attractions for visitors, including trekking, hiking, paragliding, river rafting and more. The city is surrounded by deodar cedar forests and is located in the midst of the stunning Kangra Valley. Other popular attractions in the city include the Dalai Lama Temple Complex, the Bhagsu Falls, and the local markets.
Barot Valley: This scenic valley is situated at a distance of 47km from Bir Billing and boasts of lush-green meadows, terraced fields and rippling streams. It is located in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, India at an altitude of 2,760 meters above sea level and is surrounded by dense forests of pine and deodar. It offers amazing views of the snow-capped Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas. It has many trekking trails, making it a popular destination among adventure enthusiasts. Additionally, various other activities such as river rafting, kayaking, trout fishing, and camping can be done here. Barot Valley is also known for its wildlife and is home to numerous species of birds and animals.
Kangra Fort: Take a historic journey back in time to the ancient Kangra Fort, located just 15 kilometres away from Bir Billing. It is a large fort located in the city of Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, India. It was a stronghold of the Katoch dynasty and was considered the largest and oldest fort in the Northern part of India. The fort has historical significance, as it was the site of an epic siege by the forces of Punjab Hill states led by the Mughal army in 1790. Kangra Fort is also notable for the ruins of the older fort that lies within it, known as Trigarta Fort. Inside the fort, visitors can find temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and the goddesses Bajreshwari and Jawalamai. There are also various other monuments, such as a water reservoir, granaries, and an animal shelter called Shahi Quila. The fort is open to the public, and visitors can climb up to the top for a stunning view of the Kangra Valley.
Baijnath Temple: Baijnath Temple is located in the town of Baijnath in Himachal Pradesh, India. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva and is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines. This temple has a long history, being founded in the 12th century by a king named Jagdeo Chand. It is considered to be one of the most sacred places in Himachal Pradesh and is visited by thousands of devotees annually. The stunning architecture and intricate carvings of the temple make it a must-visit destination. The beautiful garden surrounding the temple is a tranquil spot for visitors to relax. There are also many small temples and shrines within the vicinity of the main temple. Those who visit this temple are rewarded with a feeling of pure divine bliss.
Triund Trek: A trek to Triund Hill is a must for adventure lovers, who can enjoy the serene beauty of the Dhauladhar range. It is a popular trekking destination in India located in the beautiful Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. The trek leads to the summit of Triund Hill and offers breathtaking views of the Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas. The trek to Triund is a moderate one and can be completed in a day. The trek route goes through lush green forests, lush meadows and different streams. The trek offers great opportunities for adventure, exploration and a view of nature. Trekkers can also enjoy the local cuisine, culture and hospitality of the people of the region.
Mclodeganj: McLeod Ganj is a small town located in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is located in the Kangra district of the state and is also known as ‘Little Lhasa’, due to its strong association with the Tibetan cause. It is a popular tourist destination and a seat of spiritual learning for Tibetan Buddhism and the Tibetan diaspora. McLeod Ganj is home to a monastery of the 14th Dalai Lama, giving it a distinct character. The town is surrounded by the majestic Dhauladhar Mountain Range, overlooking the lovely Kangra Valley. Numerous cultural events, such as traditional dance and music performances, are held here throughout the year. Visitors also come to explore the various Tibetan monasteries, attend religious events, and enjoy the mountain environment and charming local culture. It is situated in the foothills of the Dhauladhar range and is known as the home of the Dalai Lama, the exiled Tibetan leader. McLeod Ganj town is only a few miles away from the popular tourist destination of Dharamshala and has been known to attract a lot of Tibetan exiles, tourists and trekkers. It is also a great place to shop for Tibetan items, including carpets and handicrafts. There are several Tibetan monasteries, including the Namgyal Monastery and the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives. The town also has a number of cafes, restaurants, and pubs.
Nurpur Fort: It is a fort located near the town of Nurpur in the Kangra district. It was built in 1623 by the Raja of Nurpur, Hari Chand, and was later expanded in the 18th century. The fort is composed of three terraces and is renowned for its intricate architecture and design. The fort stands at the confluence of the Sutlej and Beas rivers and is now unfortunately in ruins. The primary attractions in the fort include the Bayazid’s Tomb, the Rani Padmini Palace, the Chowgan Stadium, and the ruins of a Shiva temple. Visitors to the fort can also admire the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Tashi Jong Monastery: Tashi Jong Monastery, located in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, is the traditional home of the Drukpa Lineage, one of the eight great branches of Tibetan Buddhism. Established by the first Gyalwang Drukpa, Tsangpa Gyarey in 1246, the monastery serves as an important cultural centre of the Kagyupa tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery is home to about 600 monks, who are trained in various aspects of the Dharma, as well as to many tourists and visitors who come to experience the unique spirituality and beauty of the monastery. The monastery is considered to be the birthplace of Mahayana Buddhism in India, as well as the main seat of Drukpa Kagyupa. Inside the main hall, there are over 40 shrines devoted to various Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, teachers, and deities. The large thangka of the White Tara, painted during the 14th century, is one of the monastery’s most sacred images. Pilgrims and visitors come here to receive teachings, participate in ceremonies, and worship the deities enshrined in the monastery.
Masroor Rock Cut Temple: The Masroor Rock Cut Temple, also known as the Himalayan Pyramids, is a group of 15 monolithic rock-cut temples located in Masroor, Himachal Pradesh, India. The temples are cut from solid sandstone and have a pyramidal or beehive shape. The temples are believed to have been constructed between the 8th and 10th centuries CE, making them some of the oldest surviving temples in the country. The temples are also noteworthy for their Indo-Aryan style of architecture, which is rare in the region. Many sculptures and carvings can be seen on the temples, depicting various deities from the Hindu pantheon. The temples are considered an important example of early medieval Hindu architecture, and they have currently protected monuments.
Chamunda Mata Temple: Chamunda Mata Temple is a famous temple located in the heart of Dharamshala, India. This is a popular place of worship among devotees and tourists alike. The temple is dedicated to the goddess of destruction, Chamunda Mata, an avatar of the Hindu goddess, Chandi. The temple is surrounded by tall trees and high mountains, providing a calming and serene atmosphere. Inside the temple, there is a huge idol of Chamunda Mata as well as several smaller idols. Visitors to the temple are encouraged to take part in the daily prayers and rituals conducted here. The temple also houses several spiritual retreats and meditations for those looking for a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.
Things to do in Bir Billing:
Paragliding: Bir-Billing is the world’s second-best paragliding site after Lake Como in Italy. It offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges. The place is known for its scenic beauty and ideal conditions for paragliding. The take-off point is at Billing, which is at a height of 2800 meters. The landing point is at Bir, located at an altitude of 1600 meters. The Bir Billing region is known for having good thermals and long gliding distances. The best season for paragliding here is from the end of March to the end of June. Pilots from all over the world come here to enjoy the breathtaking views and incredible flying experiences.
Camping: Bir-Billing is home to a number of trekking and camping sites. You can rent camping tents and explore the mud trails and enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains. Camping at Bir Billing is a great way to witness the beauty and serenity of nature. The camping experience here is an enthralling one because of the mesmerizing landscape sprawling across the area.
Trekking: There are plenty of trekking trails in Bir-Billing offering various levels of difficult and easy treks. You can embark on a trek to the highest peak of Kangra Valley, Indrahar Pass and explore the lush green meadows and spectacular views.
Mountain Biking: One can enjoy the adrenaline rush by mountain biking in Bir-Billing. The roads of Bir-Billing offer great views and amazing terrain for mountain biking. It is also home to some of the best mountain biking instructors in India, who can help riders to improve their skills and become more confident on the trails.
Hot Air Ballooning: Take the experience of Bir-Billing to a whole new level by floating above the clouds in a hot air balloon. Enjoy the aerial view of the lush green pastures, snow-capped peaks and the long Himalayan range.
Sightseeing: There are plenty of places to explore in Bir-Billing. Visit the rhododendron gardens, temples and monasteries and experience the local culture.
Where To Go After Billing:
Dharamshala:
Dharamshala is a hill station in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is located in the upper reaches of the Kangra Valley and is surrounded by dense coniferous forest consisting mainly of stately Deodar cedar trees. The nearby villages of McLeod Ganj, Bhagsunag, Dharamkot, Naddi, Forsyth Ganj, Kotwali Bazaar (the main market), Kaccheri Adda (government offices such as the court, police, post, etc.), Dari, Ramnagar, Sidhpur and Sidhbari are now suburbs of Dharamshala. Dharamshala is the district headquarters.
The town has been divided into two distinct sections: Upper Dharamshala, known locally as McLeod Ganj, and Lower Dharamshala, known as Kotwali Bazaar. The town is a popular tourist destination due to its close proximity to the Himalayas, the presence of the Dalai Lama, and its vibrant Tibetan culture. There are a number of monasteries, temples, and other places of interest in the area. The climate of Dharamshala is very pleasant throughout the year.
Parvati Valley:
Parvati Valley is a valley in the state of Himachal Pradesh in India. It is located in the northern region of the state and is known for its beautiful mountain views and its trekking trails. The valley is a major tourist attraction and is home to the popular Parvati River, which flows through the valley. The Parvati Valley is also home to the ancient Hindu pilgrimage site of Manikaran. The valley is surrounded by the lush green pine forests of the Great Himalayan National Park, making it a popular destination for trekkers and nature lovers alike.
Prashar Lake:
Prashar Lake is a picturesque lake in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is situated at 2730 m above sea level and is believed to be over 800 years old. It is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and dense forests and is a popular spot for trekking. The lake has a small temple dedicated to the sage Prashar, who is believed to have meditated at this spot. Every year, a festival is held here to honour the sage.
Tirthan Valley:
Tirthan Valley is a serene paradise located in the lap of the Great Himalayan National Park in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is bordered by the rivers Tirthan and Sainj and surrounded by thick forests of pine, cedar and oak trees. The valley is home to various wildlife species such as the Himalayan black bear, brown bear, leopard, musk deer, common langur and numerous species of birds. It is also a popular destination for trekking, camping, fishing, and other adventure activities. The valley is also known for its traditional Himachali culture, temples, and ancient architecture.
Cafe in Billing:
Cafes in Billing offer a variety of delicious and healthy meals and drinks, including breakfast, lunch and dinner options. The cafe also offers catering services for parties and special events. The cafe is dedicated to providing excellent customer service and strives to create an inviting atmosphere for all guests. With a wide selection of coffees, teas, pastries, and smoothies, there is something for everyone. The cafe is a great place to relax and enjoy a meal with friends or family.
Visit Kahani Ki Dukan:
Kahani ki Dukan in Bir Billing is a popular cafe and retail store in the town of Bir in Himachal Pradesh, India. The store offers a wide variety of locally produced products from the region, including handicrafts, tea, coffee, spices, and other goods. The store also features an array of books and CDs related to the culture and history of the area, as well as a selection of souvenirs. The store is known for its friendly and helpful staff and its cosy atmosphere. It has become a popular hangout spot for locals and visitors alike.
Take the Kangra Queen Toy Train Ride:
The Kangra Queen Toy Train is a heritage railway that runs through the Kangra Valley, in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the few remaining narrow-gauge railways in India. The train follows a route that travels through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the valley. The journey starts from the Kangra railway station and ends at the town of Palampur. The train passes through many tunnels and bridges, offering stunning views of the valley. The ride is an experience of a lifetime and is highly recommended for those who enjoy scenic train journeys.
Food in Bir Billing:
Bir Billing offers various food options to its visitors. Some of the best places to try local food in Bir Billing are Tibetan Kitchen, Cafe Nirvana, Surya Cafe and Restaurant, Tadka Bir Billing, Snow View Restaurant, and Himalayan Kitchen. Tibetan Kitchen offers classic Tibetan dishes like Thukpa, Momo, and Shabaley. Cafe Nirvana serves breakfast, snacks, and local Himachali cuisine. Surya Cafe and Restaurant is a great place to try North Indian and Chinese dishes. Tadka Bir Billing is known for its delicious North Indian cuisine. Snow View Restaurant is a popular restaurant in Bir Billing and serves multi-cuisine dishes. Himalayan Kitchen is a great option for vegetarian food.
Cafe in Bir Billing:
- Cafe iLaka
- June16Cafe
- Musafir Cafe
- Garden Cafe
- Ara Cafe- Bir
- The 4 Tables Cafe&Gallery
- Mafia Cafe Bir
- Vairagi Cafe
- Byron Bay Cafe
- Bruce Mills Cafe
Stay in Bir Billing:
Bir Billing offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. There are a number of luxury resorts and hotels in the area, offering everything from five-star luxury to budget stays. Some of the top-rated hotels include The Himalayan Village, Tashi View Point and Hotel Rupin Valley. For more budget-friendly options, there are a number of guesthouses and homestays in the area, such as Hotel Monal, Hotel Kangra Valley and Koser Resorts.
- BillingVista Guest House Bir: Located in Bīr, 3 miles from Chauntrā, BillingVista Guest House Bir gives accommodations with a restaurant, free private parking, a garden and a terrace and also free WiFi, the hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and room service. At the hotel, every room is equipped with a desk, a private bathroom, a balcony with a mountain view, bed linen, a flat-screen TV and towels. Guest rooms at BillingVista Guest House Bir are equipped with a seating area. A à la carte menu is available. Guests at BillingVista Guest House Bir will be able to enjoy activities in and around Bīr, like cycling. The nearest airport is Kangra Airport which is 62.8 km from BillingVista Guest House Bir.
- Fearless Cloud: is situated in Bīr, 4.7 miles from Chauntrā, Fearless Cloud has accommodations with a restaurant, free private parking, a shared lounge and a garden. Featuring room service, this property also provides guests with a playground. The property provides evening entertainment and a 24-hour front desk. All rooms at the hotel come with a seating area. The rooms have a private bathroom, free toiletries and bed linen. Fearless Cloud offers a buffet or vegetarian breakfast. The area is popular for cycling, and bike rental and car rental are available at the accommodation. Aiju is 9.7 km from Fearless Cloud, while Baijnāth is 13.2 km from the property. The nearest airport is Kangra Airport, 66 km from the hotel.
- Hokling ArtHouse- The Treasure of the Himalayas: Located in Bīr, within 6.6 km of Chauntrā and 7.7 km of Aiju, Chokling ArtHouse – The Treasure of Himalayas has accommodations with a restaurant and free WiFi throughout the property as well as free private parking for guests who drive. Featuring family rooms, this property also provides guests with a terrace. The property provides evening entertainment and a 24-hour front desk. All rooms include an electric teapot and a private bathroom with a shower and slippers, while selected rooms also offer a kitchen equipped with a microwave. All rooms feature bed linen. The hotel offers a continental or buffet breakfast. The area is popular for cycling, and bike rental and car rentals are available at Chokling ArtHouse – The Treasure of Himalayas. Baijnāth is 11.1 km from the accommodation, while Sahel is 12.6 km from the property. The nearest airport is Kangra, 64.4 km from Chokling ArtHouse – The Treasure of Himalayas, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
- Gliders Inn Bir: Located in Bīr, within 5.3 km of Chauntrā and 7.6 km of Aiju, Gliders Inn Bir provides accommodations with a restaurant and free WiFi throughout the property as well as free private parking for guests who drive. Featuring family rooms, this property also provides guests with a terrace. The property has a tour desk, luggage storage space and currency exchange for guests. At the hotel, all rooms come with a closet, a balcony with a mountain view, a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV, bed linen and towels. At Gliders Inn Bir, rooms contain a seating area. The accommodation offers A à la carte or vegetarian breakfast. The area is popular for cycling, and bike rental and car rentals are available at Gliders Inn Bir. Baijnāth is 10.9 km from the hotel, while Jogindarnagar is 11.6 km away. The nearest airport is Kangra, 64.4 km from Gliders Inn Bir, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
- Stupa Guest House: Located in Bīr, 6.3 km from Sahel, Stupa Guest House provides accommodations with a restaurant, free private parking, a garden and a terrace. Among the facilities at this property are a shared kitchen and room service, along with free WiFi throughout the property. The hotel features family rooms. The area is popular for cycling, and car rental is available at the hotel. Baijnāth is 6.3 km from Stupa Guest House, while Aiju is 11.6 km away. The nearest airport is Kangra Airport, 59.5 km from the accommodation.
