You can’t simply take in the beauty of every path, every sky, and every wholesome moment that this small village of Himachal has to offer. Bir Billing or Bureau of International Recycling is an almost mainstream yet unconventional and charming place in the north of India. It has the spirit of adventure as well as the calm of mind within. And our traveller DamanDeep found it to be a remarkable journey to explore. 

When we make plans with our friends, the clashing of schedules is a must. And that is how a group trip got modified into a solo trip. Being a digital marketer, socializing is a forte for DamanDeep, and more than nervous, he was definitely excited about this. 

Destination: Bir

Heading off from Jaipur to Delhi and then to Bir by bus, he spent almost a day in travelling. His stay for the week was at Hostellers. Upon reaching, the 15-degree weather of September was an absolute fine benefactor to make for a cozy stay. But the essence to travel to the off-beat places of Bir was ignited and thus began the search of hidden havens of Himachal. 

The very first experience that DamanDeep solely wished for in Bir was without a doubt- Paragliding. To look at the vast green beneath and soar along the sky is nothing less than a fantasy. 

Now, adventures like these greatly depend on the weather, making it a spontaneous go or no go crusade. And unfortunately, he faced the dreaded clouds on his first attempt to paraglide. If not paragliding, then witnessing the sunset was also a breathtaking view. And soon enough DamanDeep found the perfect time to paraglide through the clear orange skies of Bir.  

Most of the touristy places were shut due to the pandemic. So he restored to go with the flow and explore the unexplored. Connecting with like-minded people in the comfort of the hostel was fun. And spending time with them unfolded further plans. 

Destination: Gunehar Waterfall

Along with his newly befriended friends, DamanDeep planned to visit the gushing waterfalls of Bir. Nestled on the hillside of the village is the Gunehar Waterfall. Here, the paths are not extremely clear, and taking a guide is advisable [Cost: INR 100-150]. Trekking for about two hours upstream along the waterfall was surely thrilling. Tired, soaked, and cold, they reached the ridge and took in the beauty of the landscape around them. 

Activities Offered: Sky Cycling and Bungee Jumping

Destination: Rajgundha Valley

Another escapade was along the green-meadowed trails of Rajgundha Valley. The entire scene looks like something out of a painting.  From the tale off-site of paragliding, approximately 8900 ft. above, it took almost five hours for this group to trek across this majestic mountain. 

It was DamanDeep’s very first one-day trek that has made memories for life. They camped out on the hills, dwelled around the bonfire, and barbequed. The infamous seafood was their main dish that had some local wine to go along with it. Time passed by as they jammed together in such a divine atmosphere. 

Although he didn’t get a chance to visit a few of these places in Bir, they can surely be explored. The Kangra fort, Bajinath Temple, and a list of charming monasteries can also be added to your travel list. 

The Trails Of A Foodie

When in Bir, DamanDeep’s food trail has got you covered. From local delicacies to cafes, there is so much to discover. Starting off with the July 1947 Cafe that has an enduring variety of bakeries. The South Indian specialties to try at Avva’s cafe. Situated in the main market of Bir, is yet another delightful cafe called Mafia. And last but definitely not least is the local thaali served for R.100 at the Mahathma Gandhi Chawk. These will have you a never-ending menu of lip-smacking food to gorge on. 

With watching the hundreds of paragliders in the hues of the sky and trekking to the hills of green, DamanDeep’s solo trip is a travel story to remember. For more photos and videos check out their Instagram handle: @daman_7866.

And for more such unique and authentic stories stay tuned and follow us on our Instagram handle: @indiachalk

Estimated Budget: INR 15,000-20,000 

Keep Travelling! Keep Exploring!