The breathtaking Himalayan twin towns of Bir and Billing are once again capturing international attention, firmly establishing themselves as the premier destination for paragliding, often cited as Asia’s highest and the world’s second-highest paragliding take-off point.

Located in the serene Kangra Valley against the backdrop of the majestic Dhauladhar Range, the site offers an unparalleled flight experience that attracts pilots and adventure enthusiasts from around the globe.

• Billing (Take-off Site): Situated at an elevation of approximately 2,400 meters (8,000 feet) above sea level, Billing is the mountain meadow from which paragliders launch. The high altitude provides strong thermal currents and favorable wind conditions, which are ideal for long-duration and cross-country flights.
• Bir (Landing Site): Located about 14 kilometers downhill at an altitude of approximately 1,500 meters (5,000 feet), Bir serves as the primary landing ground and is the vibrant hub for tourism, Tibetan monasteries, and cafes.

The substantial vertical drop and smooth flying conditions allow for thrilling airtime, with tandem flights often lasting 20-30 minutes, and experienced solo pilots achieving flights lasting hours.

While some sites near Mont Blanc in the European Alps offer a slightly higher absolute altitude launch, Bir-Billing is consistently celebrated among the top destinations worldwide, especially for its accessible take-off, safe landing zone, and reliable meteorological conditions.

The site cemented its global status by successfully hosting the Paragliding World Cup in 2015, drawing elite pilots from over 40 countries and showcasing the location’s world-class potential for the sport.

The most favorable times for paragliding in Bir-Billing are during the pre-monsoon (March to June) and post-monsoon (October to November) seasons. During these months, clear skies, stable winds, and excellent visibility ensure both a safe flight and spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks and the sprawling green valley below.

For adventure travelers seeking a truly memorable aerial perspective of the Himalayas, Bir-Billing remains an essential bucket-list destination.