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Things to do in Bir-Billing, Himachal Pradesh - destination for ecotourism, spirituality, adventure and serenity

12/3/2025

 

Best things to do in Bir-Billing: Paragliding & Monasteries

​​Bir, Himachal Pradesh, is a serene Himalayan village in Kangra district renowned worldwide for its Bir-Billing paragliding site, Billing being the take-off site and Bir the landing site. Paragliding in Bir-Billing is one of the top things to do in Himachal Pradesh - soaring through the stunning skies and Dhauladhar range is an experience you won’t forget!

​Beyond the thrill of flying high, 
Bir offers a vibrant mix of adventure sports, Tibetan culture, scenic monasteries, forest hikes, and quaint cafes that cater to slow travelers and digital nomads alike. Whether you're here for a tandem paragliding flight over lush valleys, to meditate in ancient gompas, or to explore nature trails in the surrounding pine forests, Bir-Billing is the perfect offbeat destination for a rejuvenating mountain escape.

​Bir was my first abode in the Himalayas, and I was blessed enough to relocate to one of the most beautiful villages in Himachal Pradesh after quitting my job and embracing a quieter, healthier lifestyle. Bir retained its tranquil and serene atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for my slow travels. I explored the village on foot, savoring the pace and immersing myself in its charm. 
Bir, Himachal Pradesh - destination for ecotourism, spirituality, adventure and serenity
Bir, Himachal Pradesh - destination for ecotourism, spirituality, adventure and serenity


​Monasteries in and around Bir

The air in Bir is filled with a very positive and peaceful vibe, possibly due to the numerous monasteries located within and around the area.


​Paplung Sherabling Monastery in Bhattu, near Bir

Paplung Sherabling Monastery, the largest in the area, is a sight to behold. From the Palampur side, you can catch glimpses of it as you drive. Nestled in a village called Bhattu, just 5 kilometers away from Bir, the monastery is surrounded by a serene pine forested protected land. The Dhauladhar Himalayan range provides a breathtaking backdrop, creating an ambiance of tranquility within and around the monastery.
Paplung Sherabling Monastery in Bhattu, near Bir, Himachal Pradesh
Paplung Sherabling Monastery in Bhattu, near Bir, Himachal Pradesh


​Pema Ewam Chögar Gyurme Ling or Chokling Monastery in Bir

Pema Ewam Chögar Gyurme Ling Monastery, also known as Chokling Monastery, was built by the Chokling Rinpoche. Neten Chokling, an incarnate lama of the Nyingma lineage of Tibetan Buddhism, migrated to Bir and established a Tibetan settlement there. Situated in the heart of the Tibetan colony, this monastery is renowned for its breathtaking beauty.
Pema Ewam Chögar Gyurme Ling or Chokling Monastery in Bir, Himachal Pradesh
Pema Ewam Chögar Gyurme Ling or Chokling Monastery in Bir, Himachal Pradesh

​I would frequently visit the monastery just to sit on the lawns in front of it and observe the monks performing their rituals, the young monks playing in the lawns, and the paragliders soaring over the monastery.
Deer Park Institute, Bir, Himachal Pradesh
Deer Park Institute, Bir, Himachal Pradesh


Palyul Chökhorling Monastery or Nyingma Monastery in Bir

Palyul Chökhorling Monastery, also known as the Nyingma Monastery, is situated on the main road, just across the most renowned landmark, the Hotel Surya Classic. The vibrant paragliding parachutes that dot the sky are a sight that cannot be missed, especially when you have a clear view. The landing site is conveniently located near the Tibetan colony, making it an exhilarating experience to witness the pilots gracefully glide over the monasteries. 
Palyul Chökhorling Monastery or Nyingma Monastery in Bir, Himachal Pradesh
Palyul Chökhorling Monastery or Nyingma Monastery in Bir, Himachal Pradesh


​Tsering Dzong Monastery in Bir

Tsering Dzong monastery, nestled near the intersection of Bir Colony Road and the tea gardens of Chougan, exudes a vibrant and artistic aura. Its walls are adorned with vibrant colors and intricate sculptures, creating a visually captivating ambiance. 
Tsering Dzong Monastery in Bir, Himachal Pradesh
Tsering Dzong Monastery in Bir, Himachal Pradesh


Dirru Samdup Dechen Choekhor Ling or Sakya Dirru Monastery in Bir

During one of my morning walks, I stumbled upon Dirru Samdup Dechen Choekhor Ling, also known as Sakya Dirru Monastery. I had taken a random trail through the fields and ended up walking towards the Tibetan colony when I noticed the bright blue monastery. 
Dirru Samdup Dechen Choekhor Ling or Sakya Dirru Monastery in Bir, Himachal Pradesh
Dirru Samdup Dechen Choekhor Ling or Sakya Dirru Monastery in Bir, Himachal Pradesh

​I entered the monastery as the monks began their morning prayers. It was a serene and beautiful beginning to my day.
Dirru Samdup Dechen Choekhor Ling or Sakya Dirru Monastery in Bir, Himachal Pradesh
Dirru Samdup Dechen Choekhor Ling or Sakya Dirru Monastery in Bir, Himachal Pradesh


​Dzongsar Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö Monastery in Chauntra near Bir

Dzongsar Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö Monastery, nestled in Chauntra, just a 7-kilometer drive from Bir, Himachal Pradesh, is situated within the campus of Dzongsar Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö College of Dialectics. This esteemed monastic college attracts monks from over 300 monasteries across the Himalayan region, each representing a distinct tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. They are guided by highly trained khenpos, making it a leading institution in higher Buddhist education.
One evening, I had the pleasure of witnessing the monk students engage in a lively basketball and football game on the campus.
 ​Dzongsar Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö Monastery in Chauntra near Bir, Himachal Pradesh
Dzongsar Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö Monastery in Chauntra near Bir, Himachal Pradesh


Adventure Activities in Bir

Bir, an ecotourism destination in Himachal Pradesh, offers adventure activities such as paragliding, camping, trekking, and mountain biking.
​

Paragliding in Bir-Billing

When I look up from my house, I see colorful parachutes gracefully floating in the sky. A few adventurous ones perform interesting acrobatics while landing. Bir, renowned as Asia’s best paragliding site, hosted the International Paragliding Competition in 2015.

Billing, the take-off site is at the top, while the landing site is at Bir. This site is a paradise for paragliders from all over the world. The landing site is a breathtaking sight that can captivate you for hours. I often walked to the landing site road in the evenings and spent time watching the gliders until the sunset.
Paragliding in Bir-Billing
Paragliding in Bir-Billing

​The National Institute of Paragliding hosts a training program for pilots, providing them with the necessary skills and licenses to fly. ​Tourists can also enjoy the thrill of flying with experienced pilots who hold tandem licenses.
National Institute of Paragliding in Bir, Himachal Pradesh
National Institute of Paragliding in Bir, Himachal Pradesh


​Best time for Paragliding in Bir

Paragliding is closed during the rainy and snowy winters. The best time to go paragliding is from March to May and from September to October.


​Trekking in Bir

​Nestled at the foothills of the majestic Himalayas, Bir serves as a gateway to a world of trekking and hiking adventures. From leisurely walks to challenging treks, there’s something for every level of fitness and experience.
  • The pine forests surrounding Bir offer breathtaking views of the Dhauladhar range and a panoramic bird’s-eye view of the monastic village itself. Many hiking trails wind through these enchanting forests, leading to mountain tops that offer a sense of accomplishment and awe.
  • One of the most popular short trekking routes begins in Billing and leads to Rajgundha. Campers can spend the night in the charming village and then choose to return to Billing the next day or venture further to the Barot Valley.
  • For the more adventurous souls, Bir offers medium-grade and challenging treks to Chhota Bangal and Bara Bangal. These treks provide a rewarding experience and offer stunning views of the Himalayan landscape.
  • A short drive from Bir, Parashar Lake awaits, offering a picturesque backdrop for a trekking adventure. The lake’s serene waters and surrounding mountains provide a breathtaking sight.
  • Mcleodganj, a bustling town located just a short distance from Bir, serves as a convenient base for exploring the surrounding areas. Treks from Mcleodganj, such as Triund, Kareri Lake, and Indrahar Pass, offer a diverse range of experiences and scenic beauty.
Trekking in Bir
Trekking in Bir


​Mountain Biking in Bir

Bir, a paradise for mountain biking enthusiasts, boasts an extensive network of challenging uphill trails. As riders explore Bir, they can immerse themselves in diverse and picturesque landscapes. Clean and serene trails wind through lush green fields, towering pine forests, serene monasteries, and majestic mountains.
Mountain Biking in Bir
Mountain Biking in Bir


Cafes and Restaurants in Bir

Bir, a small town nestled in the Himalayan mountains, offers limited dining options due to its low tourist population. Most visitors come for a day trip to paraglide from nearby Mcleodganj or Palampur, leaving the locals to prefer home-cooked meals.
Among the few restaurants in Bir, Garden Cafe stands out as the most prominent. They serve a delightful array of dishes, including egg rolls wrapped in special Tibetan bread, pancakes, wood-fired pizzas, salads, and soups. The Tibetan bread is so popular that I used to take it home to enjoy with hummus I made myself. Garden Cafe is a favorite hangout spot for travelers, serving as my go-to place for breakfast and evening teas.
What sets Garden Cafe apart is its art gallery, which showcases artistic Tibetan artifacts and designer clothes. 
Garden Cafe in Bir, Himachal Pradesh
Garden Cafe in Bir, Himachal Pradesh
There’s a fine dining restaurant in Colonel’s Resort, but it’s only accessible to the resort’s inmates.
Colonel's Resort in Bir, Himachal Pradesh
Colonel's Resort in Bir, Himachal Pradesh

​The 4Tables, a charming cafe nestled in Gunehar, an art village near Bir, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Renowned for its wood-fired pizzas, the cafe only accepts pre-orders of a minimum of four pizzas. In addition to its culinary delights, the 4Tables also houses an art gallery, showcasing the works of local artists. 
The 4Tables Cafe in Gunehar, near Bir
The 4Tables Cafe in Gunehar, near Bir

​There’s a simple restaurant in Sherabling monastery that I used to love for Tibetan Butter Tea. They had a menu that combined Tibetan and Indian cuisines. The food wasn’t particularly tasty, but it was hygienic.
Restaurant in Sherbaling monastery
Restaurant in Sherbaling monastery

​Tibetan food stalls and small cafes abound in the Tibetan colony, offering a delightful array of dishes. From delectable glass noodles to mouthwatering momos, soups, and teas, they cater to every palate. Among these culinary delights, Joy Cafe stands out as the premier destination for authentic Tibetan cuisine.
Joy Cafe, Tibetan colony, Bir
Joy Cafe, Tibetan colony, Bir

​Several restaurants have opened near the landing site area. These restaurants primarily serve continental and fast food. Milan Cafe, however, surprised me with its creative and exceptionally high-quality, freshly baked wood-fired pizzas.
I spent my day in Bir at Garden Cafe for breakfast and then had lunch at Milan Cafe.
Milan Cafe, landing site, Bir
Milan Cafe, landing site, Bir

​There used to be only one tea stall at Billing, renowned as ‘Chachu Chai’. It stood vibrantly in the azure sky atop the Billing mountain, serving tea, maggi, and omelets. Recently, another tea stall has opened at the takeoff site in Billing.
Chachu Chai, Billing, Himachal Pradesh
Chachu Chai, Billing, Himachal Pradesh


Accommodation in Bir

Although Bir is not a tourist destination, it offers accommodation options for all needs.

Homestays are a great choice for solo travelers and backpackers seeking budget-friendly accommodation and the opportunity to live with local families. There are numerous homestay options available on Chougan Road and in the upper Bir area. These homestays feature open gates that invite visitors to step inside as they walk along the roads.
Homestays in Bir, Himachal Pradesh
Homestays in Bir, Himachal Pradesh

​Aekant Resort
, aptly named, is a secluded guesthouse nestled amidst the tranquility of the mountains. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking complete solitude and a connection with nature.
Aekant Resort in Bir, Himachal Pradesh
Aekant Resort in Bir, Himachal Pradesh

​If you want to experience the positive energy of the monastic village of Bir throughout the day, you have the opportunity to stay in the monastery guest houses. These guest houses are situated on the outskirts of the monasteries and are managed by the monasteries themselves. Sherabling monastery and Chokling monastery offer guest houses.
Guest house in Sherabling Monastery
Guest house in Sherabling Monastery

​Bir also offers a yoga and healing retreat called Namlang Himal Resort on Chougan Road. This resort boasts independent cottages beautifully nestled amidst lush greenery and vibrant flora. The resort features a yoga and massage center, as well as a private organic farm in its backyard. The restaurant serves delectable cuisine made from fresh, organic ingredients sourced from the resort’s farm.
Namlang Himal Resort, Bir, Himachal Pradesh
Namlang Himal Resort, Bir, Himachal Pradesh

​The 4Rooms in Gunehar village is a charming boutique property featuring four mud rooms and a stylish bathroom.
The 4Rooms, Gunehar, near Bir
The 4Rooms, Gunehar, near Bir

​For those seeking extra comfortable stays, there are luxury properties like Colonel’s Resort and Tatva Resort.
Rooms in Tatva Resort, Bir
Rooms in Tatva Resort, Bir

​For those who enjoy glamping and camping, there’s a campsite located on Chougan Road, right next to Bir Resort. There are numerous budget guesthouses in the Tibetan colony. Hotel Surya Classic is a well-known mid-range guesthouse.
Camping in Bir
Camping in Bir

​When I lived in Bir, Zostel opened a new hostel there. It has 12 bunk beds and two private rooms. It’s an ideal place for solo travelers and budget-conscious individuals who enjoy the company of fellow travelers in the hostel.
Zostel, Bir
Zostel, Bir


How to travel to Bir

The nearest airport is the Gagal Airport in Dharamsala, approximately 70 kilometers away from Bir. The most economical and convenient option is to take the overnight HRTC Volvo bus from Delhi Kashmere Gate to Upper Bir.
Alternatively, there’s a longer option: the toy train that runs from Pathankot to Ahju, which is just 3 kilometers away from Bir. While the journey can be uncomfortable, the train offers a scenic route through beautiful landscapes.
Toy train from Pathankot to Ahju, near Bir
Toy train from Pathankot to Ahju, near Bir


Best time to travel to Bir-Billing

The best time to visit Bir is from February to May and from September to November.
During the rainy season, Bir experiences heavy rainfall.
​Winters can be quite cold, but they still offer a pleasant travel experience.

    AUTHOR

    Picture
    Namaste! I'm Medhavi Davda.
    I travel to Evolve..
    In Nature, I confide..
    I find my calling in the Himalayas..
    In the Oceans, I meditate..

    ​
    A High-Altitude Trekker & PADI certified SCUBA Diver, I love exploring the heights and depths of the planet with my regular doses of mountains and oceans.
    ​
    Discovering myself & life through nature, adventures, travels, sports and dance has been an addiction since my existence!

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