If you’re leaving Delhi early, expect a long scenic drive (~10–12h) or fly to Kangra (DHM/Gaggal) then taxi 1–1.5h to Bir; plan arrival by afternoon. Roads are open but winter conditions can slow progress—carry warm layers.
Tandem paragliding from Billing (launch) to Bir is the main attraction: calm thermals in winter can allow safe flights—operators usually fly between 08:00–16:00 depending on weather; book in advance and confirm weather the morning of your flight.
Try simple Himachali and Tibetan dishes at a popular local café (many stay open till 9–10pm); relaxing and close to guesthouses — confirm opening on arrival as small cafés vary in winter.
Light north-Indian/Tibetan breakfast (parathas, eggs, Tibetan momos or porridge) preparing you for a day of exploring; cafés typically open 08:00–10:30.
If you want another flight or a short trek along the ridge, mornings are best for paragliding due to stable winds; otherwise enjoy the ridge walk between Bir and Billing (1–2 hours round trip).
Drive 20–40 minutes to Palampur to walk tea gardens and visit Baijnath’s ancient Shiva temple (popular and photogenic). Most local sites are open by 09:00 and close by dusk.
Scenic 3–4 hour drive into the Uhl river valley to Barot—arrive before dark to set up a campsite or check into a guesthouse. Roads are narrow; check local weather and road status in winter.
Home-cooked Himachali dinner at your riverside guesthouse or campsite — warm dal, rice, roti, and seasonal sabzi; most homestays serve dinner around 19:30–20:30.
Stroll along the Uhl River, visit the trout hatchery and small market; calm valley ideal for photography and serene camping; places open mid-morning till evening.
Explore nearby forest trails or set up a winter-ready camp by the river—choose a guided campsite with gear and hot water; trekking loops are mostly easy to moderate (1–3 hours).
Scenic 1–1.5h drive to Jalori Pass (approx 10–20 km from Jibhi); Serolsar Lake is a short 20–45 minute trek from the parking area and is tranquil—access during daylight hours; check if the pass is open in winter.
Short scenic drive (1–1.5h) down to Gushaini — the gateway to Treks in the Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP). Obtain any required permits in advance or at the park office (permit office hours vary—ask your guesthouse).
Choose a short guided trek (e.g., to Raghupur Fort entry trails or small alpine meadows) inside GHNP; treks vary 3–6 hours depending on the route and guide—you’ll see river valleys, pine forests and possible wildlife sign (park uses daylight hours).
Stay in a riverside campsite with winter gear or a comfortable guesthouse in Gushaini — choose a provider offering sleeping bags rated for sub-zero if you want camping.
Leave early (by 06:00) for the long drive back to Delhi — expect 9–12 hours depending on traffic and winter road conditions; carry warm clothes and snacks.
Arrive late evening in Delhi and check into a hotel near Karol Bagh as requested for the night of 31 Dec; Karol Bagh is centrally located for markets and easy onward travel to railway stations.
Celebrate New Year’s Eve quietly with a North Indian meal in Karol Bagh or nearby Connaught Place; many restaurants will have special hours—book ahead for 31 Dec.
Famous Mughlai dishes at Karim’s (Jama Masjid area) or choose a good Karol Bagh restaurant for non-veg and vegetarian options; open generally till late afternoon and evening.
Allow ample time to reach your chosen departure station; Karol Bagh is close to New Delhi and Old Delhi stations but factor in traffic and luggage handling.
Board your pre-booked train as planned; re-confirm boarding platform and arrive at least 45–60 minutes before departure. Keep winter layers handy for early-morning/overnight travel comfort.