Bir Billing Paragliding Guide: Tandem Flights & Safety

On Travel Team 27 Oct 20264 min read

Bir Billing in Himachal Pradesh's Kangra valley is often called the paragliding capital of India. Pilots from around the world come here for its reliable thermals, and first-timers can experience the thrill on a tandem flight with a certified pilot. Here is how to plan your flight and make the most of Bir.

Where Are Bir and Billing?

Billing is the take-off site, a ridge at around 2,400 metres.
Bir is the landing site in the valley below, at about 1,500 metres, home to a Tibetan settlement, monasteries and cafés.

The nearest towns are Baijnath and Palampur. Dharamshala is about 65–70 km away.

How to Reach

From Delhi: overnight Volvo buses run to Bir or Baijnath (around 12 hours).
By air: Gaggal (Kangra/Dharamshala) airport, about 70 km away.
By train: Pathankot is the nearest major railhead; the narrow-gauge Kangra Valley Railway stops at Ahju near Bir.

How a Tandem Flight Works

You travel by jeep from Bir to the Billing take-off point (usually arranged by the operator).
Your pilot briefs you, fits the harness and helmet, and checks the wind.
You run a few steps downhill together and lift off.
You glide over forests, villages and tea gardens with the Dhauladhar range behind you.
You land in the landing field at Bir.

Most tandem flights last around 15–30 minutes, depending on weather and package. Longer "cross-country" style flights may be offered at higher prices.

Best Season

October to November: the best flying season with stable weather and clear views.
March to May: another good window.
December to February: possible on clear days, but cold.
Monsoon (around July to mid-September): flying is usually suspended for safety.

Choosing a Safe Operator

Fly only with registered operators and licensed pilots.
Ask about the pilot's experience and the age and condition of the equipment.
Confirm that the flight includes insurance and that helmets and proper harnesses are provided.
Avoid operators who pressure you to fly in poor weather.
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Requirements and Health

There are typically weight limits (often roughly between 30 and 100 kg) – check with your operator.
Not recommended for pregnant travellers or those with serious back, heart or neck conditions.
Minors need guardian consent.

What to Wear and Carry

Comfortable trousers and closed shoes with good grip
A light jacket – it is cooler at Billing
Sunglasses with a strap
Avoid loose scarves and dangling items
Many operators offer GoPro videos for an extra fee

Things to Do in Bir

Monasteries: Sherab Ling, Chokling and Palpung, and the Tibetan colony.
Cafés: Bir has a relaxed café culture with mountain views.
Gunehar waterfall: a short village walk away.
Tea gardens: walk through estates around Bir and Palampur.
Meditation and courses: Bir is known for Buddhist study centres.
Billing to Rajgundha trek: for those who want a forest hike.

Sample Weekend Plan from Delhi

Night 1: Overnight bus from Delhi.
Day 1: Arrive in Bir; rest, then explore monasteries and cafés.
Day 2: Morning tandem flight; walk to Gunehar waterfall; evening bus to Delhi.