Saturday, September 23: Arrival and Leisurely Exploration
Start your trip to Bir Billing by arriving at the Gaggal Airport in Dharamshala. From there, take a taxi or hire a private car to Bir, which is approximately a 2-hour drive. After checking in at your hotel, spend the morning exploring the charming village of Bir. Visit the Chokling Monastery, a Buddhist monastery known for its intricate artwork and peaceful surroundings. In the afternoon, head to the Bir Tea Factory, where you can learn about the tea-making process and sample different varieties. In the evening, take a leisurely walk through the Bir Bazaar, a bustling market filled with local handicrafts, clothing, and delicious street food.
Chokling Monastery: Free entry, 1-2 hours
Bir Tea Factory: INR 100 per person, 1 hour
Bir Bazaar: Cost varies based on purchases, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Bakehouse Cafe which offers a delightful selection of freshly baked goods and continental breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For lunch, visit the Pahari Enlightenment Cafe for a taste of authentic Himachali cuisine. Enjoy traditional dishes like Madra and Siddu, surrounded by the serene Himalayan views. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For dinner, dine at 13 Chicken Point, a popular restaurant known for its delicious chicken preparations. From butter chicken to tandoori chicken, their menu offers a variety of mouthwatering options. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Chilly Chicken Restaurant, known for their delicious omelettes and hot parathas. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try the authentic Tibetan cuisine at The Himalayan Cafe. Their momos and thukpa are not to be missed. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For dinner, indulge in a fine dining experience at Silver Linings Restaurant. They offer a variety of continental and Indian dishes, with average cost for a meal being about 600 INR per person.
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to the Garden Cafe located in the heart of Bir. This cozy cafe offers a variety of breakfast options such as eggs, pancakes, and freshly baked pastries. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, visit the Namaste Cafe by the Bir Road. This popular eatery serves delicious Indian and Continental dishes, including thali meals and wood-fired pizzas. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For dinner, dine at the 4Tables Cafe situated near the Bir Landing Site. Indulge in their delectable Tibetan cuisine, including momos, thukpa, and butter tea. The average cost for a meal is about ₹250 per person.
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the Café 1947, a charming café located in Bir. Indulge in their mouthwatering pancakes or eggs benedict, paired with a cup of freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
For lunch, head to the Garden Café, a cozy restaurant known for its organic and vegetarian dishes. Try their signature thali, featuring a variety of authentic Himachali delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at the Eighteen71 Cookhouse & Bar. Enjoy an exquisite fine dining experience with their diverse menu of Indian and international cuisines. Don't miss their specialty seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about INR 800 per person.
Sunday, September 24: Paragliding Adventure and Cultural Immersion
Get ready for an adrenaline-filled day of paragliding in Bir Billing, one of the best paragliding destinations in the world. Start your morning by heading to the Bir Billing Takeoff Point, where experienced instructors will guide you through the paragliding experience. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains and the stunning landscape below as you soar through the skies. After the thrilling adventure, take a break for a traditional Himachali lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Deer Park Institute, a renowned center for Buddhist studies, meditation, and cultural exchange. Immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere and participate in a meditation or yoga session. End the day with a visit to the Tibetan Colony, where you can explore the handicraft shops and try some delicious Tibetan cuisine.
Paragliding in Bir Billing: INR 2,500-5,000 per person, 2-3 hours
Lunch at a local restaurant: INR 300-500 per person, 1 hour
Deer Park Institute: Free entry, 2-3 hours
Tibetan Colony: Cost varies based on purchases, 1-2 hours
Monday, September 25: Nature Trek and Departure
On your last day in Bir Billing, explore the natural beauty of the region through a trekking experience. Start your morning by heading to the Billing Takeoff Point and embark on a scenic trek to Rajgundha. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes, lush green meadows, and panoramic views of the Dhauladhar range along the way. Take a packed lunch to enjoy amidst nature. After spending a few hours in Rajgundha, begin your descent back to Bir. In the evening, bid farewell to Bir Billing and head to the Gaggal Airport to catch your flight back home.
Trek to Rajgundha: INR 1,000-1,500 per person, 6-8 hours
Packed lunch: INR 200-300 per person, 1 hour
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Bir Billing, consider visiting the Sherabling Monastery, a beautiful Tibetan Buddhist monastery nestled in the hills. The monastery offers a peaceful and serene environment, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Another off the beaten path attraction is the Baijnath Temple, located near Bir. This ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is known for its intricate stone carvings and architectural beauty. Locals also recommend trying the local delicacy called Siddu, a steamed bread made with wheat flour and stuffed with a mixture of potatoes and spices. It is a popular snack among the locals and can be found in various eateries in Bir.