Bir… The very name ignites an adrenaline rush, calling out to those who have experienced its thrill and charm firsthand. When I set foot in Bir, I knew one thing for certain. I had to soar high above the mountains, embracing the sky like a free bird. The thought of gliding over lush green valleys, feeling the crisp mountain air against my skin, and witnessing the breathtaking Himalayan expanse from above was enough to send shivers of excitement down my spine. Bir wasn’t just another destination; it was a call to adventure, a place where the earth meets the sky, and where every traveler finds their wings. Most of you must have a question. What are the things to do in Bir on a weekend trip?
If you’re someone who isn’t keen on paragliding or has a fear of heights, you might wonder. What else is there to do in Bir? Well, plenty! This charming little town isn’t just about soaring through the skies. From exploring serene monasteries and hiking through lush trails to cycling around tea gardens and indulging in Tibetan cuisine, Bir has something for everyone. No matter if you seek adventure, culture, or just a peaceful escape, this place has more to offer than just a parachute ride.
During my second visit to Bir, I found myself sitting in a cozy café, gazing out at the sky speckled with paragliders soaring like birds, sipping on a warm cup of tea, and pondering a question, “what else is there to do in Bir beyond paragliding?” As I gazed out at the scenic beauty surrounding me, I realized that this little Himalayan town had much more to offer than just adrenaline-fueled flights.
Things to do in Bir - Top 10 Activities in Bir Beyond Paragliding
Can Bir Be Your Ultimate Travel Destination? Absolutely! I’ve met people who once arrived as travelers but never left, outsiders who now call Bir their home, drawn in by its charm, tranquility, and adventure. I, too, stayed in an Airbnb a little away from the main market of Bir, within walking distance. It was nestled in the adjacent village of Machkehar, and the property was absolutely stunning, serene, surrounded by nature, and offering the perfect escape from the usual tourist buzz. I felt like staying there for long.
Though Bir is often called the ultimate paragliding destination in India, if we look beyond it, there’s so much more to explore. From tranquil waterfalls and scenic valleys to rich cultural experiences and serene monasteries, Bir has a variety of attractions for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or someone seeking peace and solitude, Bir beyond paragliding offers plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
So, the big question, “what can you do in Bir beyond paragliding?” Well, let me help you find the answer.
1. Visit Gunehar and Bongoru Waterfall – A Hidden Gem in Bir
If you’re searching for things to do in Bir beyond paragliding, exploring the Gunehar and Bongoru waterfalls should be high on your list. These hidden waterfalls offer a perfect escape into nature, far from the crowds.
Gunehar Waterfall is just a short trek from Gunehar village, leading you through dense pine forests and charming Himachali homes. The sound of rushing water grows louder as you approach, revealing a stunning cascade tucked away in the wilderness. It’s an ideal spot to unwind, click some breathtaking pictures, or even take a refreshing dip if you dare!
Bongoru Waterfall, on the other hand, is a well-kept secret known mostly to locals. Hidden deeper in the forest beyond Bir, reaching it requires some effort, but the untouched beauty makes it worthwhile. If you love offbeat adventures, this trek is a must.
For those looking for adventurous things to do in Bir, these waterfall treks offer a chance to connect with nature, away from the usual tourist hustle. While returning from the waterfall, make sure you stop at Her Cafe and enjoy some locally prepared meals.
Pro tip: Start early, wear sturdy shoes, and carry snacks and water since there are no shops around!
2. Visit Barot Valley – A Serene Escape from Bir
If you’re looking for things to do in Bir that take you beyond its usual attractions, a trip to Barot Valley is a must. Just a scenic 2-hour drive from Bir, Barot is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those craving peace away from the crowds.
Nestled along the Uhl River, Barot Valley is known for its lush green meadows, dense deodar forests, and trout-filled streams. The journey itself is breathtaking, with winding roads offering panoramic views of the Dhauladhar range. Once you arrive, you can spend your day trekking, fishing, camping, or just soaking in the tranquility of the valley.
Barot is also home to the Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary, where you might spot Himalayan black bears, gorals, and a variety of pheasants. Whether you explore on foot, enjoy a riverside picnic, or simply breathe in the crisp mountain air, Barot offers a refreshing escape from Bir’s more touristy vibe.
For travelers seeking offbeat things to do in Bir, this day trip is an experience you won’t forget.
Pro tip: If you want to stay overnight, homestays and riverside campsites in Barot can be arranged by locals!
3. Visit the Pottery Village – Andretta’s Artistic Retreat
If you’re exploring things to do in Bir beyond paragliding, a visit to Andretta, the renowned pottery village, is a must. Located about an hour’s drive from Bir, this charming village is an artist’s haven, steeped in creativity and history.
Andretta is famous for its pottery tradition, originally established by Norah Richards, an Irish theatre artist, in the 1920s. Today, the village is home to the Andretta Pottery and Craft Society, where you can witness skilled artisans shaping clay into exquisite works of art. You can even try your hand at pottery-making and take home a self-crafted souvenir.
Apart from pottery, Andretta is also known for its stunning landscapes, traditional Himachali homes, and a thriving community of artists and writers. A visit here offers a unique blend of culture, craftsmanship, and scenic beauty, making it an enriching escape from Bir’s adventure-centric scene.
Pro Tip: If you’re interested in trying pottery, book a session in advance at Andretta Pottery & Craft Society. They offer short workshops where you can mold your own clay masterpiece. Also, don’t forget to explore the Norah Richards House, a hidden gem that showcases the village’s artistic heritage.
4. Visit Tibetan Buddhist Monasteries
Bir is home to several serene and spiritually enriching Tibetan Buddhist monasteries. Whether you seek peace, cultural immersion, or just a glimpse into monastic life, these monasteries offer a profound experience.
🛕 Key Monasteries to Visit:
- Chokling Monastery – Known for its giant golden Buddha statue and peaceful ambiance.
- Palpung Sherabling Monastery – One of the largest monasteries near Bir, nestled deep in the forest.
- Dzongsar Khyentse Monastery – A stunning monastery with intricate murals and a scholarly Buddhist institute.
- Tsering Jong Monastery – A lesser-known but beautiful monastery perfect for meditation.
🙏 Things to Do:
✔ Attend morning or evening prayers (pujas) and experience the monks’ rhythmic chanting.
✔ Learn the basics of meditation from the monks. Some monasteries offer short meditation retreats.
✔ Visit Deer Park Institute, a center for Buddhist and Indian philosophy, where you can take part in lectures and discussions.
✔ Spend some time engaging with monks and learning about Tibetan culture and Buddhism.
Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning to experience the monasteries in their most tranquil state, with fewer tourists and a more immersive spiritual atmosphere.
5. Toy Train Journey (Ahju to Joginder Nagar and Back)
Taking a ride on the narrow-gauge Kangra Valley Railway is a nostalgic and scenic experience that takes you back in time. The Ahju railway station in Bir is a small yet charming stop along this historic railway line. The journey from Ahju to Joginder Nagar offers breathtaking views of lush valleys, pine forests, and tiny Himachali villages.
✔ Distance: ~10 km (one way)
✔ Duration: ~45 minutes (one way)
✔ Experience: Slow-paced journey through the Himalayan foothills with old-school train vibes.
Pro Tip: Sit on the left side while traveling from Ahju to Joginder Nagar for the best valley views!
6. Trek Through Bir’s Stunning Trails
Bir is surrounded by breathtaking trekking routes that take you through dense forests, charming villages, and majestic Himalayan landscapes. If you’re an adventure seeker, these treks are a must:
✔ Rajgundha Trek – One of the most scenic treks, starting from Billing and leading to the remote Rajgundha Valley, offering surreal views of the Dhauladhars.
✔ Plachak Trek – A short and easy trek that takes you to a picturesque meadow with jaw-dropping mountain views.
✔ Hanumangarh Trek – A moderate trek leading to an ancient temple on a hilltop, with panoramic views of the valley.
✔ Trek to Billing – If you want to skip the cab ride, hiking up to Billing (the take-off site for paragliding) is a fantastic alternative with rewarding views.
Pro Tip: Always check the weather conditions before heading out, especially in monsoon and winter, as some trails can get tricky.
7. Chowgan Tea Garden and Bir Tea Factory
A visit to Chowgan Tea Garden is a must for those who appreciate the art of tea-making. Spread across rolling green hills, these lush tea gardens offer a refreshing escape from the usual tourist spots. You can take a peaceful stroll through the plantations, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and watch local workers carefully pluck tea leaves.
Just nearby, the Bir Tea Factory provides insight into the tea production process. Here, you can witness how freshly harvested tea leaves are processed, dried, and packed for distribution. If you’re a tea lover, don’t miss the opportunity to sample some locally grown flavors and even purchase a few packets to take home.
Pro Tip: Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the most scenic views and a quieter experience.
8. Baijnath Shiva Temple – A Spiritual Retreat
Located just a short drive from Bir, the ancient Baijnath Temple is a must-visit for history and spirituality enthusiasts. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this 13th-century temple is renowned for its beautiful Nagara-style architecture and its deep-rooted significance in Hindu mythology. The temple is believed to be one of the very few places where Ravana worshipped Lord Shiva to attain immortality.
Set against the backdrop of the Dhauladhar mountains, the temple complex offers a peaceful and meditative atmosphere. Whether you seek divine blessings or simply wish to admire the historical architecture, Baijnath Temple is worth a visit.
Pro Tip: If you visit during the Maha Shivratri festival, you can witness grand celebrations and rituals that bring the temple to life.
9. Try Mountain Biking
Mountain biking is one of the top things to do in Bir, offering an exciting and immersive way to explore the region’s rugged terrain. The trails in Bir, with their scenic views and varied difficulty levels, cater to all types of riders. You can embark on an exhilarating ride through dense forests, winding mountain roads, and lush green meadows, while enjoying the fresh air and panoramic views of the Dhauladhar Range.
For those seeking a guided experience, there are several biking tour operators in Bir that offer bikes for rent, along with expert guides who can show you the best trails. Popular spots for biking include the Bir Tibetan Colony area, Billing, and the trails leading to the local villages. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, there’s a trail suited for your skill level.
Best Time to Visit: The ideal time for mountain biking in Bir is from March to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant and the trails are accessible.
Cost: Bike rentals range from INR 500 to INR 1,500 per day, depending on the type of bike, while guided tours can cost between INR 2,000 and INR 5,000 for a half or full-day ride.
Pro Tip: If you’re looking for the most thrilling experience, consider riding early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Also, make sure you’re wearing proper gear (helmet, knee pads, and elbow guards) for safety and comfort during your ride.
10. Visit the Tibetan Colony and Experience Local Culture
The Tibetan Colony in Bir is a vibrant and culturally rich part of the town, offering an enriching experience beyond the adventure activities. Located close to the town center, this area is home to a significant Tibetan population and provides a glimpse into their traditional lifestyle and culture.
Explore the colony’s monasteries, walk through the narrow lanes lined with colorful Tibetan prayer flags, and discover local handicrafts sold by Tibetan artisans. This is an excellent place to shop for authentic Tibetan souvenirs, including intricately carved wooden items, thangkas (Tibetan paintings), and Tibetan prayer beads.
The Tibetan colony also offers visitors a chance to indulge in Tibetan cuisine. Head to local eateries for dishes like momos (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and butter tea. These flavorful dishes will give you a deeper understanding of the culture while offering a delightful culinary experience.
Pro Tip: Visit in the late afternoon when the monks are engaged in evening prayers, giving you an immersive experience of the Tibetan spiritual practices.
By now, you’ve probably discovered some thrilling and unique things to do in Bir, far beyond just paragliding.
When to Visit Bir – What Is the Best Time to Visit Bir?
The best time to visit Bir largely depends on what you’re looking to experience:
- March to June: This is the ideal time for most travelers. The weather is pleasant with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, perfect for outdoor activities like trekking, mountain biking, and exploring the local culture. It’s also the ideal time for paragliding.
- September to November: Another great time to visit Bir. The monsoon season has just ended, leaving the area lush and green, and the weather is cool and comfortable. This is perfect for trekking and exploring the surrounding valleys.
- December to February: If you’re a fan of snowfall, the winter months bring cold weather and a chance to experience Bir under a blanket of snow. However, it can get quite chilly, with temperatures dropping below freezing, so be prepared for the cold if you’re planning to visit during this time.
Pro Tip: If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, the best time to visit is during the shoulder months, March to April and September to November.
Bir is much more than just a paragliding hub. It’s a destination that offers a variety of experiences for those looking to explore beyond the skies. Bir invites travelers to discover its rich culture, peaceful landscapes, and adventurous activities.
For nature enthusiasts, the Gunehar and Bongoru waterfalls offer a refreshing escape into the forests, while trekking trails like Rajgundha provide breathtaking views of the Dhauladhar Range. If you’re in search of tranquility, Barot Valley is a serene retreat just a short drive away, with lush meadows and riverside beauty.
Cultural lovers will find Andretta, a pottery village, to be a unique artistic haven, while Bir’s Tibetan monasteries offer a deep dive into Buddhist culture and spirituality. No matter if you’re looking for outdoor adventures, spiritual experiences, or a peaceful retreat, Bir beyond paragliding has something for everyone.
