BIR BILLING

Bir and Billing are twin villages, 15 km apart, located in the Kangra district of the Indian state Himachal Pradesh. Bir Billing is a famous adventure hub, popular among numerous travelers and adventure enthusiasts not only in the country but instead spreading its roots worldwide. Here the villages act as a starting (Billing) and landing (Bir) point for the gliders. One of the best paragliding spots, Bir is also considered the paragliding capital of India. Many of the campers, trekkers, bike riders, travelers, and thrill junkies visit the village throughout the year. Apart from paragliding, Bir Billing offers breathtaking views of the surrounding ranges of snow-capped Himalayan mountains and deep valleys, making it a picturesque destination for nature lovers. The village has a serene and tranquil atmosphere, providing a peaceful retreat for visitors. Tourists also anticipate the will to explore the village during rain amidst the lush green meadows. With the influence of Tibetan culture and Buddhism which can be witnessed in the area around, Bir has also served as a refugee settlement for Tibetans.

Bir Billing is one of those destinations which is a must-visit for every adventure lover as it got numerous opportunities in providing thrill and excitement. Anyone looking for a vacation to spend some time away from the mundane and regular life should definitely explore this beautiful region that not only gives the rush but also calmness and peace by engulfing in the serenity of nature. From a walk in nature to a mountain ride, to camping in some off-site campgrounds to enjoying the authentic food delicacies sitting in a cozy corner, this location got it all covered making it a flawless getaway destination.

What is the best time to visit?

The best time to visit Bir Billing is from March to June, or from September to November.

How to reach Bir Billing?

Option 1 - By Air

• Flight from Chandigarh to Kangra
• Flight from New Delhi to Kangra
• Flight from Amritsar to Kangra 

Once reaching the Gaggal Airport in Kangra one can hire a taxi to Bir Billing.

Option 2 - By Train

• To Pathankot Railway Station 
• To Ahju Railway Station 
• Toy train from Pathankot to Ahju

Once reaching any of the mentioned railway stations you can hire a taxi to Bir Billing.

Option 3 - By Road

• There are private and government buses that directly connect tourists to Bir Billing, such as buses from Chandigarh or Delhi.
• One can also drive up to Bir Billing through any private vehicle. 

•Delhi > Karnal > Ambala > Rupnagar > Bilaspur > Sundar Nagar > Mandi > Joginder Nagar > Chauntra > Bir 

•Delhi > Karnal > Ambala > Banur > Kiratpur > Anandpur Sahib > Nangal > Una > Amb > Kangra > Palampur > Baijnath > Bir

Is there any permit required to visit Bir Billing?

A "Protected Area Permit" (PAP) is required for foreigners residing in the Tibetan Colony of Bir, only if they are staying overnight.

Who should visit Bir Billing?

• Looking for vacation trips
• Adventure sports enthusiasts
• Nature lovers
• Solo travelers
• Folks fond of rains
• People interested in art, culture, and philosophy
• Spirituality and peace seekers
• Buddha worshippers or who follow Buddhism 

Who should not visit Bir Billing?

• Intolerant to cold temperatures
• Can’t endure much rain or snowfall
• Not interested in adventurous activities 
• Not interested in visiting ancient or historic places 
• People who can't walk much
• Looking for a vibrant nightlife

What to do in Bir Billing?

• Adventure Sports and Outdoor Activities such as Paragliding, Trekking, Camping, etc.
• Photography 
• Experience the starry night
• Visit the nearby hill station of Palampur
• Visit the religious temples for blessings and peace
• Embrace the views of Sunset and Sunrise
• Enjoy the toy train ride 
• Learn about Buddhism and Tibetan culture
• Admire nature and get to know about tea production.
• Explore the twin villages, Bir and Billing respectively.

What are the places to visit in Bir Billing  (5 km)? 

• Baijnath Temple
• Bir Billing Paragliding point
• Starry Nights Campground 
• The Sky Village

What is the climate in Bir Billing?

In summer, the climate here is pleasant, bearable, and good to enjoy with warm days and cool nights. In the rain, it can get cloudy and humid. In winter, the weather will be cold and can get unfavorable at times with snowfall and down temperatures.

What kind of mobile network is available?

All kinds of mobile networks are available.

What should I carry with me while visiting?

• Necessary or prescribed medicines
• A water bottle that can be refilled and essentials such as sunscreen, sanitizer, disposable gloves, tissue papers, and towels.
• Woolen clothes if visiting in winter.
• Cotton clothes and a few pair of warm clothes for the night if visiting in summer.
• Power banks for immediate charging.
• A pair of comfortable shoes.
• Drones, DSLRs, and such gadgets if you wish to capture or create any content in the form of pictures, videos, short films, etc.

Where to stay?

There are numerous hotels, homestays, and hostels available in the vicinity of Bir and Billing. If you want to experience the adventure thrill you can also stay in pitched tents on the fields of campgrounds and sites. You can select any of the accommodation types, depending upon the personal factors of what you are looking for such as facilities and amenities, budget, stay duration, etc.

What to eat in Bir Billing?

With rising cafe culture and many situated restaurants, this area serves its people some of the best dishes from various cuisines, the popular ones being Tibetan Cuisine and Himachali food with must-try dishes such as Sidu, Laphing, Balep, and Mittha.

What to shop and buy at Bir Billing?

You can visit famous shopping sites such as the Bir Bazar, Tibetan Colony, Kotli, etc, and buy souvenirs, woolen clothes with authentic traditional prints, handicrafts, dry fruits, herbs, and stones.

When is the market closed?

The markets here close between 8:00 PM-9:00 PM.

What are the special events or festivals hosted?

• Bir Music Festival (Bir)
• Bir Billing Half Marathon
• Various National and International Paragliding Events

What is expensive and cheap in Bir Billing?

Some of the adventure sports such as the famous Paragliding can get a bit expensive depending upon the duration of the activity and its charges.

How much cash should I carry?

Depending upon the day planned if you are visiting for sightseeing then ₹1000- ₹1500 is more than sufficient and if for any outdoor activity then the cost can vary.

How to hire or rent any vehicle?

You can hire or rent any of the vehicles or transportation modes through local agencies or vendors.

How to drive and the condition of the road?

The roads are in good condition if you are willing to drive. The caution is to drive carefully during rain or snowfall due to the roads becoming slippery, wet, and bumpy. In some areas, the roads can get narrow or even blocked due to snowfall.

Where to park the vehicle?

You can park your vehicle at the respective available parking spots.

What are the problems tourists may face?

• Cold weather temperatures
• Respiratory Issues
• Network Issues
• Slippery roads
• Roadblocks due to heavy snowfall
• Overly populated tourists
• Water Crisis
• Lack of accommodation 
• Rare availability of ATMs and petrol pumps or can be situated far off.
• Parking issues
• Improper public infrastructure such as roads, parking, public toilets, etc.

What are the safety measures to be taken?

• Carry your medicines and all the necessary essentials.
• Wear comfortable shoes.
• Keep your gadgets such as phones, earphones, etc., safe while going for any adventure sport.
• Carry warm woolen clothes and raincoats as the weather can turn chilly or rainy.
• Stay attentive and open-eyed to your surroundings, ex; being careful while charged for local stuff and services such as shopping items or taxi fares.
• Make prior bookings for accommodation, if possible, especially in peak tourism season.
• Listen carefully to what the guides have to offer while doing any adventure sport and abide by them.

What not to do?

• Don't litter and pollute the area.
• Don't drive rashly.
• Don't make any kind of noise pollution through loud noises and music.
• Don't smoke, consume alcohol, overeat, over-exert, or be empty stomach as all this can affect your health especially while doing any adventure sports.
• Don't walk fast or run on the roads.
• Don't disrespect the values and beliefs of the natives.
• Don't destroy, damage, or untidy the regional or heritage property.

How many days will be enough for sightseeing?

3-4 days will be enough to visit Bir Billing and its attractions properly, also if possible keep an extra day, so as to manage your itinerary, if any changes occur due to unfavorable circumstances.

What is the best way for sightseeing?

Though you can wander around Bir Billing on a bike or a car, the best and preferred way for sightseeing and exploring the city would be walking. You can plan your itinerary in such a manner that you visit the tourist spots during the daytime or finish it off by early evening hours, as the village starts to close off after dark hours in the evening.

Where is the Tourist Information Office? 

Tourist Information Office, Bir, Himachal Pradesh 176077

Which are the nearest Hospitals?

• Primary Health Centre
• Tibetan Primary Health Centre
• Meena Sood Memorial LifeLine Hospital
• Dr. Bhandari's ENT Centre 

Which is the nearest police station?

Police Station Baijnath, Police Station Rd, Kasba, Himachal Pradesh 176125

Who to contact if you are in trouble?

You can contact the nearest police station, or your hotel manager or can get help from local people.