Introduction
In our daily lives, we often let more pressing issues regarding our careers or education or familial responsibilities take precedence over the urge to live life to the fullest. While it is true that these are valid concerns, once in a while, we need to completely let go and unleash a side of us that remains unexplored. The Bir Billing Tour in the state of Himachal Pradesh provides an escape, albeit temporary, but nevertheless rewarding.
The Paragliding Capital of India, Bir Billing Paragliding, has gained international fame by organising Asia's first ever Paragliding World Cup in the year 2015. It is also recognized as an international paragliding site by the Federation Aeronautique Internationale, France. Keeping aside the various sport-related accolades, this place in the quaint hill station region, is one of the best weekend getaways in India. Why? It is because Bir Billing and the nearby vibrant city of Dharamshala, offer a mixed bag of thrilling activities, exquisite visuals of the mountainous landscape and charming local cultures that cater to its diverse tourist profile.
Arrival at Dharamshala
Since both the hamlets of Bir and Billing in the Joginder Nagar Valley are close to the city of Dharamshala, it is the arrival point for all tourists. In case of air passengers, the Kangra Airport is the nearest airport whereas for passengers travelling by train, they can either arrive at Ahju station (nearer) or the Pathankot station (accessible from major cities). One can reach Dharamshala by cab or a bus. That being said, you can actually opt to travel by road from Delhi because the journey will take you through some of the most scenic terrains, full of alpine trees and gushing rivers, enroute to the destination.
Bir Billing: A Brief Itinerary
Day 1 : After the tourists arrive at Bir campsite, a short trek is organised which takes you through the Bir forest area. The solitude found amidst wilderness and the sunlight through the canopy feel surreal after spending so much time listening to the cacophony of the city. Further along you come across the Bangoru waterfalls. The cascading water flow cutting through the giant rocks appears to be extremely majestic. These places make for great tourist attractions especially with the Dhauladhar ranges serving as a spectacular background for any of your photographs. The walk isn't hectic and is a perfect way to gear up for the range of physical activities in store for you the following day. At night, travellers revert to the campsite where they can enjoy delicious hot meals, share stories around a campfire and fall asleep while stargazing.
Day 2 : The day starts with the morning sun painting the sky in mesmerising hues and later on, those who wish to partake in Paragliding are guided towards Billing, the take-off point located at an altitude of 2400 metres. The landing site is in Chowgan, the western edge of Bir, 1525 metres above sea level.
Activities: There two options available for paragliding depending upon level of expertise. Tandem Flying is for individuals who have no prior experience in this adventure sport. A trained professional is assigned to you who controls the parachute like glider aircraft. You get to indulge in the panoramic vistas of the Himalayan range and the surrounding greenery, especially during the time of sunset when the sky breaks into a beautiful golden shade. However, one needs to keep in mind that he/she follows the instructions carefully and does not lean forward while in the air. If there is any imbalance, there are higher chances of an accident. Other than that, you can always purchase the GoPro footage of your flight at a nominal price. During longer flights, the gliders will have the opportunity to fly all the way to Manali.Solo Flying is also extremely popular though you need to possess proper certifications as a licensed pilot. The training period is 15 days prior to flying. Once you have aced the courses, you will be able to fly all by yourself. The exhilarating feeling unleashes your adventurous spirit and this truly is an accomplishment.
Bir Billing has earned its reputation because of its conditions that favour longer and stable flights. The air currents are decent at an average thermals of 5 metres per second and a cloud base of 4000-6000 metres, both of which facilitate enjoyable experiences.
Activities other than Paragliding:Spend a day or two exploring the rich and diverse culture of Dharamshala especially near the Tibetan colony. There are numerous Buddhist monasteries which offer solace to your soul such as the Chokling Monastery and the Drukpa Kagyu Monastery, both of which have exquisite interiors filled with divine inscriptions. It is the most ideal place to meditate and immerse yourself in the spiritual aura of these pious sites.
The verdant tea estates along the way offer a glimpse into the processing of our daily morning cup of Kadak Chai (tea) during a visit to the Bir Tea factory. The terraces appear to be vibrant because of the pluckers and their colourful baskets and attires.
You could also eat scrumptious local cuisine to your heart's content, after all there isn't much that is better than piping hot momos and a bowl of flavourful Thukpa. Other than that, Bir Bazaar and Tibetan Colony are famous shopping centres for handicrafts, woollens and so forth.
Not only do you return with memories which will accompany you throughout your life but also carry little souvenirs which would act as reminders of good times!
Conclusion
The picturesque locales, the warmth radiated off the people and the fascinating culture create a special place in your heart. Moreover, you can safely return to your normal routine knowing that you have achieved a personal milestone by doing something adventurous and challenging. These are the small but significant moments that make all the difference at the end of the day.
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