Exploring the Serenity of Bir, Himachal Pradesh: A Solo Trip and Workation Guide.
Why Bir?
Bir, a village in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh is renowned as the paragliding capital of India. It’s also recognized as Asia’s highest paragliding spot. The favorable wind conditions, stunning landscapes, and safe take-off and landing sites make it a paradise for paragliders. Adventure enthusiasts often flock to Bir to experience the thrill of flying over the breathtaking Himalayan valleys.
How to reach Bir?
Via Bus:
Conveniently accessible from New Delhi, Bir can be reached by direct bus departing around 8–9 pm from either Kashmere Gate or Majnu ka Tilla. The approximately 12-hour journey ensures you arrive in Bir early in the morning, allowing you to witness its beauty as the day unfolds.
Via Train:
The nearest railway station to Bir is Pathankot Junction, located approximately 143 kilometers away. You can take bus or cab from there to reach Bir.
Via Flight:
Kangra airport in Gaggal, Dharamshala, is the nearest airport, which is 67.6 km from Bir.
If you somehow reached Dharamshala and looking for economical way to visit Bir, you’ll need to take a bus from Dharamshala to Palampur(~38km) then Palampur to Baijnath(~17.5km) and finally Baijnath to Bir(~12km).
I used to live in Pusa, Bihar. To reach Dharamshala- I’d taken flight from Darbhanga to New Delhi and then bus from Kashmere Gate, Delhi to Dharamshala. Spent some time there and in Mcleodganj then took bus to Bir.
Climate:
Best time to visit:
Well, Bir is a place where you can literally go at anytime of the year. But specifically March-May & September-November is preferred since at these time temperature is neither too cold nor too hot and chances of rainfall is also low.
Where to Stay:
If you’re looking for affordable accommodation and a place to connect with fellow travellers, a hostel dorm is an excellent choice. Alternatively, if you prefer personal space and privacy, luxurious private rooms within hostels are also available. Some of the renowned hostel chains in Bir include:
Zostel: I remember it for being luxurious, wonderful architecture, its garden area with Hammocks, beautiful mountain view from the gigantic glass windows & the scrumptious Mushroom with Aaloo paratha.
Definitely a must visit place while being in Bir.
The hosteller: I reminisce the people I met here, their stories, the ghost stories that set the vibe around the bonfire. Playing Cricket in the little space near entrance was super fun.
What all things you can do at Bir?
In Bir, you can do lots of exciting things. You can fly high in the sky with paragliding and see beautiful views. Visit peaceful monasteries and learn about Tibetan culture. Go on fun hikes and walks in nature. Try yoga and feel relaxed. See tea gardens and taste yummy food. Bir has everything for a fantastic time!
Paragliding:
The average duration of flight would be around 15–20 minutes(Tandem flight would cost around ₹2500 to ₹3500) which includes take off from Billing at the altitude of 8000ft and landing at Bir which is 4300 ft above sea level.
Bir and Billing are two places which are just 16 km from each other and located at different altitude.
Explore the Cafes of Bir:
Bir offers a captivating blend of adventure and relaxation. Beyond paragliding, the town is brimming with charming cafes, making it an ideal workation spot. Set against the backdrop of majestic mountains and lush greenery, these cafes offer a serene atmosphere to work while witnessing paragliders soar in the sky.
Cafes to explore: Musafir cafe, Mafia cafe, Himalayan Pizza, The northern cafe, Ara cafe, Avva’s cafe(for South Indian food).
Musafir is a place for peace. Well, peace and Hot Chocolate to be honest. Sit, eat and enjoy the beautiful sunset.
Himalayan Pizza is a place where people can show their musical/poetic talent. They provide you mic, a chair & some cheerful audience having the tasty Pizzas.
At almost all cafes in Bir, you can literally sit for whole day & finish your office work.
I went to Mafia & Musafir, lingered my eyes on Himalayan Pizza from outside(it’s on the way to landing site). Northern cafe is at a hike of 100–200 m, but it’s worth visiting.
Visit Monasteries:
Though I couldn’t visit any, there are few beautiful and peaceful monasteries in Bir that you must visit.
Tea Gardens:
Bir has lush tea gardens that produce high-quality tea leaves. Tourists often visit these gardens to learn about tea cultivation and enjoy leisurely walks amidst the greenery.
Mountain Biking:
Bir is a great place for cycling. You can roam around the cafes, landing site, visit monasteries, go off road and bike on mountains.
I got this bike from the hostel I was staying in. Cost: Rs 500/day | Rs 300/2Hr
Enjoy the beautiful sunset at Landing site:
Well, the thing I enjoyed the most at Bir was sitting on the ground at landing site in evening, gazing the beautiful sunset, watching people fulfilling the dream of flying and feeling the vibe of the place surrounded by mountains and greeneries.
Locals also play volleyball near the landing site. If you’re interested you could make some friends and join the game.
Bir really offers a perfect blend of adventure, spirituality, and scenic beauty, promising a memorable and fulfilling experience. So pack your bags and embark on this unforgettable journey in the lap of the Himalayas.
Happy travels!
