Bir Billing

Overview

World-renowned as the 'Paragliding Capital of India' and one of the top paragliding venues on Earth, Bir Billing is a picturesque mountain destination in the Kangra District of Himachal Pradesh. Comprising the high takeoff launch site at Billing (2,400 meters / 7,874 feet) and the gentle landing meadow at Bir (1,525 meters / 5,003 feet), Bir Billing hosted the prestigious Paragliding World Cup in 2015 and attracts thrill-seekers and nature lovers from around the globe.

The paragliding experience at Billing offers tandem flights with certified professional pilots, soaring high above thermal currents with breathtaking bird's-eye views of the snow-draped Dhauladhar mountain range, deep pine valleys, and terraced tea gardens below. Flights typically last 15 to 30 minutes, gliding smoothly down to the expansive Bir Landing Site where spectators gather to watch colorful gliders land against golden mountain sunsets.

Beyond adrenaline sports, Bir is a peaceful center for Tibetan Buddhist culture and spiritual learning. Established as a Tibetan refugee settlement in 1966, Bir features magnificent monasteries including Chokling Monastery (housing a grand stupa and Buddha statue), Palpung Sherabling Monastic Institute (a sprawling complex in deep pine woods), and Dharmalaya Institute for compassionate living. Visitors can attend meditation sessions, study Buddhist philosophy at the Deer Park Institute, or relax at organic mountain cafes.

Bir is also famous for its lush tea plantations established during the British era, where visitors can enjoy quiet cycling tours through emerald tea gardens. The town is served by the historic Kangra Valley Narrow-Gauge Toy Train, offering a charming railway journey through mountain villages. Outdoor enthusiasts can also embark on day treks to Rajgundha Valley and Bangoru Waterfalls.

Bir Billing is best visited from October to June, with October and November offering optimal thermal flying weather. Shiv Bhumi Travel Agency provides complete Bir Billing paragliding packages, certified pilot bookings, monastery tours, homestay & resort accommodations, and private taxi transfers from Kangra/Gaggal Airport, Pathankot, and Dharamshala.