Bir

Bir is one of the hidden gems of northern India. It has stayed off the beaten track and retained a sense of authenticity that is hard to find elsewhere in the region. 

This is a quiet hill village in Himachal Pradesh, where time moves more slowly, the scenery is breathtaking, and the daily lives of the locals will make you believe you have traveled back in time. Between green fields, local cafes and a strong sense of community, Bir offers a different experience, simple, deep and real. 

How to reach Bir?

From New Delhi
By flight: The nearest airport is in Dharamshala (Kangra Airport), about 70 km from Bir. From there you can take a taxi to Bir.

By train: The nearest major railway station is in Pathankot, about 140 km from Bir. From Pathankot you can take a taxi or bus to Bir.

By bus: There are direct and comfortable buses that travel overnight from Delhi to Bir. This is an economical and pleasant option.
By car: Bir is about 520 km from Delhi, and the journey takes about 12 hours via NH44.

From Dharamshala
By taxi: The most convenient way is to take a taxi, and the journey takes about 2-3 hours.
By bus: There are local buses from Dharamshala to Bir, but they may take longer. You can also board long-distance buses towards Mandi or Manali and get down at the "Bir Road" bus stop, which is 3 km from the drop-off area.

From Manali
By taxi: The journey from Manali to Bir takes about 4-5 hours.
By bus: There are buses available, but you may have to change at Mandi or Joginder Nagar.

Monasteries, Temples and Spiritual Centers in Bir

Deer Park Institute
(Location: Chaugan Village)
Located in the Tibetan colony of Bir, this monastery is known for its large stupa and impressive architecture. A great place to take photos and get to know Tibetan Buddhism.

Chokling Monastery
(Location: Chaugan Village)
Located in the Tibetan colony of Bir, this monastery is known for its large stupa and impressive architecture. A great place to take photos and get to know Tibetan Buddhism.

Palpung Sherabling Monastery
(Location: Bhattu Village)
One of the largest monasteries in the area, nestled in a pine forest and offering breathtaking views. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and observe the daily routine of the monks.

Tsering Jong Monastery
(Location: Chaugan Village)
A lesser-known but spectacularly beautiful monastery, especially suitable for those seeking peace and solitude. The meticulous craftsmanship and pastoral setting make it worth a visit.

Dzongsar Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö Institute
(Location: Chauntra Village)
An institution for advanced studies in Buddhism, but also open to visitors interested in learning about Tibetan culture and spirituality.

Water sources in Bir

Gunehar Waterfall (also known as Banguru Waterfall)
There are several waterfalls on the Gunehar village route, the largest of which is called Banguru Waterfall. Gunehar village is located about 4 km from the main landing site of the paragliding attractions.

Machhial (Chowktra Village)
A natural pool in the river of a nearby village. It is located about 5 km from the landing site.

Machhial (near Jogindernagar)
Located about 16 km from the landing site, near the town of Jogindernagar.

Upper Bir River (Upper Bir Village)
A beautiful and pleasant stretch of river in the Upper Bir region. A quiet and green place to spend time in nature.

Recommended restaurants and cafes in Bir 

Silver Linings Cafe (Near the Landing Site, Chaugan): A cozy, homey cafe, known for its organic coffee and great pastries. Perfect for relaxing with a good book or meeting other travelers.

Garden Café (near Tsering Jong Monastery): Set in a lush green garden, this cafe offers a relaxed atmosphere and a menu that includes local and international dishes. Don't miss their herbal tea infusions.

Avva's Café (Near Landing Site, Chaugan): Serving authentic South Indian food, this is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The dosas and filter coffee here are a must.

Vairagi Café: Offers a delicious mix of Indian, Chinese and Continental food, along with excellent homemade pastries. Located in the heart of the central market, a perfect place to sit, relax and watch the colorful happenings of the street.

Bhumi Café: Located near Chokling Monastery, it is known for its delicious vegan food and quiet atmosphere. It serves a combination of Korean and Tibetan dishes. There is also a bakery with a wide variety of cakes. A great place to relax and enjoy fresh food in a relaxed atmosphere in the heart of Bir.

Soul Kadhi: Located in an alley opposite the Amul store in the central market, it offers a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the town. Nestled among open fields, it serves Maharashtrian and South Indian cuisine, with dishes prepared fresh every day. A relaxed dining experience with flavors that bring traditional India to the plate.

June 16: A homely place in the central market, near the landing area. Serves delicious continental dishes and a selection of cakes and pastries. You can sit inside or outside, right next to the main road, and enjoy the atmosphere.

Namlang Bar & Restaurant: Offers a menu that combines Indian and Tibetan food. You can sit outside, in a beautiful garden surrounded by tea fields and forest. The place also hosts live music nights and has a large selection of spirits, making it a great destination for an unforgettable evening in Bir.

Day trips in the Bir region

Bir Landing Site:
The most famous place in Bir, where all the hang gliders land. It is an exciting place to watch the gliders in the air, meet extreme enthusiasts and enjoy local snacks.

Khampagar Monastery:
(in the village of Tashijung, near the town of Peprola) – 15 km from the landing site.
Another beautiful monastery that offers a quiet atmosphere and a spectacular view of the valley. Less touristy, and especially suitable for meditation and relaxation.

Baijnath Temple:
13km from the landing site
An ancient Shiva temple, considered one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the site attracts pilgrims from all over India for its spiritual importance and impressive architecture.

Barot Valley:
(Approximately 50 km from the main road or 35 km via Billing)
A picturesque valley famous for its trout fishing and lush green nature. Suitable for a day trip from the town of Bir, especially for nature and adventure lovers.

Rajgundha Valley:
(Approximately 25 km from the landing site)
A beautiful place in the heart of the mountains, above the gliding takeoff site in Billing. A recommended area for camping and serves as a base for many treks in the area.

Billing – the gliding launch site:
(17 km from the landing site)
The take-off point for the gliders is located on a hill. You can spend a whole day there watching the gliders take off like birds. There are tea stalls and simple local food.

Hot Springs (Tatvani Village):
(Approximately 13 km from the landing site – 11 km drive and 2 km walk)
A moderate hiking trail leads to natural hot springs. The place allows bathing in the hot waters in the heart of nature - a particularly liberating experience.

Mata Maheshwari Trek:
(Approximately 6 km from the landing site – half drive, half walk)
An ancient temple on a hilltop with a spectacular view of the Kangra Valley and the Bir region. A moderate hiking trail, with a spiritual atmosphere and breathtaking views.