Bir Billing, the paragliding capital of India, is a breathtaking destination nestled in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast or a nature lover, visiting Bir Billing is a must. To help you plan your journey, here’s a complete travel guide on how to reach Bir Billing by air, road, and rail.
1. By Air
The nearest airport to Bir Billing is Kangra Airport (Dharamshala Airport), located in Gaggal, about 68 km away.
Flights and Connectivity:
- Nearest Airport: Kangra Airport (Gaggal)
- Distance from Bir Billing: 68 km
- Major Airlines: Air India, SpiceJet, and IndiGo operate flights from Delhi, Chandigarh, and other major cities.
- Alternative Airport: Chandigarh International Airport (290 km away) with better flight connectivity.
How to Reach Bir Billing from Kangra Airport:
- Hire a private taxi (costs ₹2,000 – ₹3,000, approx. 2.5 hours journey).
- Take a bus or shared cab to Palampur or Baijnath, then another bus/taxi to Bir Billing.
2. By Train
The nearest railway station to Bir Billing is Ahju Railway Station, about 3 km from Bir village. However, the major railway station is Pathankot Railway Station, which is well-connected to various Indian cities.
Train Connectivity:
- Nearest Small Station: Ahju (3 km from Bir)
- Major Railway Station: Pathankot Junction (140 km away)
- Popular Trains to Pathankot: Jammu Mail, Jammu Tawi Express, and Dauladhar Express
How to Reach Bir Billing from Pathankot:
- Take a toy train to Ahju (a scenic but slow journey).
- Hire a taxi or bus from Pathankot to Bir Billing (approx. 4-5 hours journey).
3. By Road
Bir Billing is well-connected by road to major cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Dharamshala.
By Bus:
- From Delhi: Several overnight Volvo and Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) buses run between Delhi and Baijnath/Bir.
- From Chandigarh: Regular buses ply from ISBT Chandigarh to Baijnath, from where you can take a local taxi or bus to Bir.
- From Dharamshala: Direct buses and taxis are available (approx. 2-3 hours journey).
By Car:
- From Delhi: 500 km (Approx. 12-14 hours via NH44 and NH503)
- From Chandigarh: 290 km (Approx. 7-8 hours via NH503)
- From Dharamshala: 70 km (Approx. 2-3 hours drive)
Hiring a private taxi or self-driving is a great option for those who enjoy road trips and scenic views.
Best Time to Visit Bir Billing
- March to June: Ideal for paragliding with pleasant weather.
- October to November: Best for long paragliding flights and clear mountain views.
- December to February: Offers winter charm, but paragliding might be limited due to weather conditions.
Conclusion
Reaching Bir Billing is quite convenient with multiple travel options, whether by air, train, or road. The journey itself is an adventure, offering scenic landscapes and beautiful mountain views. Plan your trip wisely, and get ready to experience the thrill of paragliding in Bir Billing!
