Continuing the journey from Mcleodganj, as you might have read in my previous blog, I reached the small village of Bir. And it was exactly how I expected, calm, peaceful, and laid back. Bir has impressive monasteries, Tibetan colonies, markets, tea gardens, and waterfalls. While adventure seekers can go trekking or paragliding, others can sit in a café or a local shop enjoying some chai and mesmerizing sunsets. Bir is the valley, while Billing is the hilly region behind it, which is also the paragliding take-off point.
In this blog, I will explain all you need to know about Bir-Billing to plan your perfect trip to this quaint little place.
Table of Contents:
Best time to visit Bir and how to go around
Places to visit in Bir-Billing
Special Mention
Activities in Bir-Billing
Conclusion
Best time to visit Bir and how to go around
The best time to visit Bir is the summer months of April to June when the weather is pleasant. Heavy downpours during the monsoon months halt all adventure sports. Winter is also an excellent time to visit if you don't mind the cold or wish to see snow. On this note, there is an essential thing to inform all readers wanting to travel to Bir or any other hilly region. Pack at least one set of clothes for every weather. Even in peak summer, the weather can change suddenly after rain, and it gets cold. Keep a light jacket and warm pajamas to stay cozy.
Renting a two-wheeler is the best option for going around Bir and visiting all the attractions. Although, if you don't mind walking, you can explore the monasteries in the central area in a few hours. If you are into cycling, cycles are also available for rent. Head to the Tibetan Colony Market area to rent two-wheelers or bicycles in Bir. Over there, you can find numerous shops that offer this facility. Rental rates usually range from Rs 500/hour to Rs 700/day for two-wheeler scooters. For the cycle, it is Rs200-300 per hour. Be sure to check out a few places and get the best rate. You must have a valid license and id card. Renting on a virtual driving license also works; however, it depends on the shopkeeper. Please wear helmets, as I have seen police detaining people without a helmet. Obey the rules, drive safely, and have fun.
Places to visit in Bir-Billing
As I already mentioned before, Bir is famous for its #Tibetanmonasteries. There are numerous big and small monasteries scattered all around Bir. However, renting a two-wheeler can cover all of them in a single day. Here are all the prominent monasteries of Bir.
Tsering Jong Monastery
Ngyingyang Monastery
Sherabling Monastery
Chokling Monastery
Drukpa Kagyu Monastery
Special Mention
Baijnath Temple: This is located at a distance of 12 km from Bir. Constructed in the 8th century, this famous temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Deer Park Institute: You can visit the Deer Park Institute other than monasteries. It is a center for the study of classical Indian wisdom traditions. If you are interested, you can register and attend their open seminars.
Paragliding Landing Site: This place is located near the end of the Tibetan Colony Market and is one of the best places to watch the sunset in Bir. There are many cafes around this location, so you can enjoy the evening to its fullest.
Bir Local Market: While the Tibetan Colony Market has more tourists, this market is for the locals. Bir bus stand is near to this place. The food is very pocket-friendly, and you'll hardly find any tourists here. If you visit this market, try Lakpa Momos.
Bir Tea Factory: Located right near the Bir local Market, this factory processes all the tea leaves from the tea gardens of Bir. You can visit this place, tour the processes involved, and buy some tea.
Activities in Bir-Billing
Most people visiting Bir-Billing often overlook this place's other exciting adventures. However, if you are not into paragliding, even then, you can enjoy all that Bir Billing has to offer. You can visit Bangoru hidden waterfall through a short water trek, try the Rajgundha trek, or even camp at the Billing top.
Waterfall Trek: Follow the directions in your Google map and reach the place marked as Gunehar waterfall. On your way, you'll meet guides offering you to take to the hidden Bangoru waterfall. They charge Rs200 per person, and it is definately worth it. Usually, Gunehar waterfall dries up during the summer months. From the starting point, it is a 1.5km trek to the waterfall. I recommend you take guides because they can take you safely to the waterfall's base. The big stones are often covered in moss, and you may accidentally slip on them. These guides know where to step and pull you up the big rocks to reach the waterfall safely.
Rajgundha Trek: Rated as one of the easy to moderate treks in Himachal, this 14km #Rajgundhatrek takes around two days to complete. This scenic route takes you between forests and rhododendron flowers, making the trail more beautiful. The best time for this trek is the spring and summer months. You can also hire trek guides from Bir who will take care of camping and other details.
Paragliding: Paragliding at Bir-Billing is rated as the best #paragliding site in Asia and the 2nd best in the world after Lake Como in Italy. The fixed rate for paragliding is Rs3000, with pick up from your hotel and drop at the paragliding landing site. The flight duration is 15-20 mins, and the maximum weight allowed is 90kg. Make sure your instructor is well-experienced and certified. You will need to provide a valid id and sign the agreement papers. Many paragliding agencies also offer insurance. Check all these details and enjoy your flight.
Conclusion
Bir is an excellent option if you need a break from your fast-paced city life. It is peaceful and laid back, perfect for rejuvenating yourself. It is well-connected to other places, and you can easily reach #Mcleodganj in 2 hours, from where you can take a bus to Delhi, Chandigarh, or Pathankot.
There are many homestays in Bir, and people are warm and friendly. Compared to other tourist destinations, it is very affordable in terms of accommodation and food. However, the valley of Bir is yet to get its ATM. So, for now, you would have to go to the main road to get an ATM. But don't worry. Almost all places accept online payments.