Exploring Bir Billing-Manali-Kasol-Kheerganga
Himachal Pradesh
Journey from Chandigarh to Bir (258 km Approx. 6.5 hrs). Route -We make our way through, Nangal, Una, Palampur, Baijnath. We buckle up for 16.5 hours of a little strenuous yet stunning drive arriving Bir late afternoon. The exquisiteness of nature and the aesthetically pleasing location of Bir welcome you with warm and hospitable vibes. Long journeys can leave one tired but then just one look of the mighty Dhauldhar Range, sound of the birds chirping, the scent of the woods is bound to rejuvenate one fast enough adding to the allure our intimate artistic stay at Bir.
We check into our designated accommodation, freshen up and get ready to explore this beautiful kingdom of Monasteries and the Land of Sunsets called “Bir”. Evening is free for leisure. Having spent few hours travelling is definitely enough to get you hungry. You can head to the hub of Café’s in Bir for munchies. Our personal favorite café’s or strongly recommended ones are – Café Ilaka, Mafia Café - best live music, The Northern Café (Beautiful sit out area to watch sunsets), Café Vairagi, Avva’s, Silver Linings for the best cheesecakes!
Up, Uppity Up! As we gear up for the most enthralling day of the itinerary –Paragliding! We Leave for Biling which is approximately 14 kms from Bir is the takeoff site. The paragliding sport launches from Biling and then glides down to the landing site at Bir.
Post the adventure, you can have lunch, We then embark our rest of the afternoon with exploring some of the most magnificent monasteries of this gorgeous valley. We would be exploring Choukling Monastery, Nyingyang Monastery, Tsering Jong Monastery to name a few (The monasteries close by 6pm). As the evening descends we head back to the Accommodation where we get to mingle with other in house guests, vibe and share experiences. With our bellies full with the scrumptious dinner we then retire for the night.
We embark our day early today, post our breakfast to head to Shangarh – The Mystical Land of Meadows. The journey from Dharamkot to Shangarh is around 205kms (approx 7hrs). Our expected arrival time is around late afternoon. Keeping the day light, we will visit the most revered temple of Shangarh ‘The Shangchul Mahadev Temple’ today. The Shangchul Grounds are one of the finest pine savannas you will ever see. The legends state that Pandava’s actually fine sieved the soil before laying them in layers for the construction of this ground. And this ground is literally free from any boulder or stone mass. Take the blessings of the almighty Shiva. You can then head back & simply relax at the campsite.
Today we have two options for you guys! First one being – either you can Spend time frolicking in the meadows, playing disc games, fun races and so on in essence reliving our childhood memories. Having spent few hours here is definitely enough to get us hungry! We head back to the campsite for a hearty and delicious food cooked with love by our in-house chef. Post lunch we then make our way into the mysterious woods to reach our secret waterfall. Yes! A secret waterfall! It’s true that there's no better spot to find yourself than that which is right by a hidden waterfall, all to yourself. Experience tranquility as you listen to its music while it cleanses the mind and soothes the soul.
Or either we can do the Trek to Pundrik Lake. Nestled in the deep dense forest of The Great Himalayan National Park, the impenetrable forests on this trek are filled with pine, fir, spruce and a rich variety of flora and fauna.
Pundrik lake, covered by tall grasses runs for 400 mtrs and is surrounded by forests on three sides. Since it’s a long trek (5-6 hrs) we would today be having lunch en route.
Not many know that the lake has been named after Rishi Pundrik. Considered sacred by the locals - entering the water, drinking or non-vegetarian food is strictly prohibited here. However, click a lot of pictures at this striking piece of marvel before returning back to the camp is definitely recommended.
As the evening descends we head back to our camp where we get to mingle with other campers, vibe and share experiences seated around the bonfire.
Cold Air. Dark Night. Warm Fire. Bright Stars. Isn’t that a perfect end to a perfect day? With our bellies full with the scrumptious dinner we then are off to our Tree Camp to experience what sleeping like a bird feels like.
Post a yummy breakfast, we depart early for our next pitstop – Manali! The distance from Shangarh to Manali is around 98kms (approx. 3 hrs) Upon your arrival in Manali, reach your designated hotel and complete the check-in formalities.
After getting freshen up, head out for the first chapter of your 2 nights in Manali. Today we cover the local sightseeing and zip. You will be visiting famous spots including Hadimba Devi Temple also called Dhungri Temple, Manu Temple, Vashisht Temple and Vashisht Kund - Hot Water Spring!
Explore the famous Mall Road. The market here has something for everyone. After a long day, return back to the hotel and you are all in for a treat with a freshly prepared dinner. Post that, doze off to wake up afresh next morning.
Relaxed from the previous Day’s schedule, we gear up for the most adventurous day of the itinerary. Today post our hearty breakfast we would be leaving for a thrilling river rafting experience in Kullu, tossing up on the rapids with your group post the session we then head for a swish swash session of Zip-Lining. If not too tired you can have additional fun by heading out to Solang Valley to take part in a variety of exciting activities like the Giant Swing, the Bungee Rocket, and the Zorbing Ball. After a long day, return back to the hotel and you are all in for a treat with a freshly prepared dinner. Post that, doze off to wake up afresh next morning.
Today, early morning we depart for the ethereally beautiful . The journey from Manali to Kasol is 75kms (approx. 2.5 hrs.). Upon reaching the Parvati Valley, check-in hotel and have some rest then head out for some sightseeing in Kasol, visit :– Kasol Market,
Manikaran Sahib Gurdwara -(Natural Hot Spring Water), Buddha place, Flea market, and then back to the hotel in time, have dinner and stay overnight.
Enjoy a delicious breakfast, check out of the hotel and gear up for the trek. You will be transferred to Bharsheni, to the spot from where you will start the trek. After starting the trek, the first stop point comes at Rudranaag and the next stop is the Kheerganga hot water springs. You can take a dip here and feel the tiredness of the day leave you. Enjoy snacks and tea/coffee here and spend the night at one of the camps for a restful night of sleep.
The journey comes to an end today. Post breakfast, we trek back to barshaini, thereafter driving back to Chandigarh. The glance of Himachal’s hidden valleys, spiritual calmness, adrenaline rushes and sleeping in unique stays forever be etched in your heart and mind.
**Please note: Incase there is a road blockage due to heavy snow fall, the tempo traveler/car might not be able to travel further. In those cases 4X4 would need to be booked thereon. That would be chargeable and the cost would be split and paid by the guests.
1. Wearing layers is the mantra in the mountains. Layers give you maximum protection from all elements. You will need at least 5 warm layers (Insulin layers). You will need at least 1 pair of inner thermals, 2 light fleece layers, 1 light sweater, and 1 padded jacket. Ensure your padded jacket has a hood as well (for winters). A minimum of one pair and a maximum of two pairs of trek pants should suffice for this trek. Wear one pair and carry one just in case it rains/snows. Trek pants with zippered cut offs at the thighs are very suitable for treks. Also, choose quick-dry pants over cotton.
Sunglasses - Sunglasses are to prevent snow blindness. A small overexposure to direct sunlight on snow can lead to snow blindness (about a half hour’s exposure). That’s because fallen snow is like thousands of mirrors that reflect direct UV rays. So you need sunglasses with UV protection.
Buying Tip: Try getting sunglasses that wrap around instead of those that have openings on the side. Even peripheral UV ray exposure is not a good idea.
2. Sun Cap
3. Synthetic Hand Gloves - Get synthetic hand gloves that have waterproofing on the outside and a padded lining on the inside. If you find the combination difficult to get (not likely), wear a tight-fitting fleece hand glove inside a synthetic hand glove. Hand gloves are mandatory on this trek.
4. Woollen Cap - a woollen head cap that covers your head and ears is absolutely essential.
5. Socks - Apart from three to four pairs of sports socks, take a pair of woolen socks. Sports socks give you cushioning plus warmth. Again the mantra is to wear synthetic socks or at least a synthetic blend. Cotton socks soak in water and sweat. They are very hard to dry. As for woolen socks, they help you to keep warm and snug in the night. If you cannot get woolen socks, wearing two sports socks serves the purpose as well.
6.Power Bank
7. Thermos for water
8. Medication (As per medical conditions if any and is subscribed by a doctor)
9.Extra cover for your electronic gear items/Valuables.
10. Quick Dry Towel/Towel
11. Torch/headlamp
12. A tiffin box with a spoon for packed lunch, we try reduced usage of plastic/paper as much as possible
13. Poncho/Rain Cover
14. Do not leave plastic wrappers(chips,chocolates etc) behind while on Trek and yes! don't forget your "Mask" of course!
IDENTITY PROOF
In keeping with Government regulations, we request all guests (on single/double/triple occupancy) to carry a photo identity to present on check-in. Foreign nationals are required to present their valid passport and visa. Indian nationals can present any government issued photo identity address proof card e.g. driving license, passport, Aadhar card or voter’s ID card. PAN Card will not be accepted as the above. Also do keep handy proof of corporate affiliations, if you have made a corporate booking.
NO SMOKING
The Government of India has introduced a ‘no smoking’ rule for hotels, restaurants and all public places. This means smoking is prohibited in all parts of the campsite except in designated areas.
PAYMENT POLICY
50% payment at the time of Confirmation. Balance payment 24 hours prior to Departure.
Please note that the room/s and the rate will be confirmed subject to availability, at the time of receipt of the advance deposit details.
CHECK-IN/CHECK-OUT POLICY
AMENDMENTS/CANCELLATION
Please feel free to connect for any further queries.
Bir is a village located in the west of Joginder Nagar Valley in the state of Himachal Pradesh in northern India. Mostly referred as “Paragliding Capital of India”, Bir is also a noted centre for ecotourism, spiritual studies and meditation.
There is a weight limit for paragliding in Bir Billing and the criteria is that you have to weigh between 15 kgs to 95 kgs.
The 14 km distance from Bir to Billing is actually a road hew out of the rock face in 1962. The distance can only be covered either by foot or a jeep.
Paragliding is open in Bir Billing along with other adventure activities. Flight time of Paragliding is 15 to 20 minutes. Climate is cold, with temperatures from 5 to 25 degrees centigrade in winter and 25 to 30 centigrade in the summer season. Launch site of paragliding at 8020 feet from sea level.
Generally, any time of the day is a good time to fly. Nevertheless, we recommend starting in the morning. The best time of the day to fly during autumn and winter would be between 10:30 am. and 17:00 pm.
Bir Billing is located at the altitude of 5000 feets (Bir) and 8000 feets (Billing) from sea level. Bir experience very low snowfall and Billing experience heavy snow fall sometime 3-4 feet snow fall happens. And trek beyond Billing can also experience very heavy snowfall.
Paragliding, Camping, Trekking, Hang Gliding, Mountain Biking, Shopping at Bir Bazaar, Walking by Bir River, Travelling by Toy Train, Visiting Bangoru Waterfall, Deer Park Institute, Experience Spa With Arya Marga, Explore the Cafes of Bir, Worship at Chokling Monastery and many more.
The average temperature in the year is around 20° C. During the summer season, it can go up as far as 35° C and down to 0° C in the winter season.
The nearest railway station is the Joginder Nagar Railway Station, approximately 120 km from Shangarh.
Shangarh village is located in the Sainj valley of Kullu district in Himachal Pradesh at an altitude of 6900 ft.
1) Visit Shangarh Meadow
2) Barshangarh Waterfall
3) Raila Fort and Raila Waterfall
4) Enjoy the sunrise and sunset of Shangarh
5) Stroll through The village
6) Indulge in bird watching visit local temples
It is a rustic enclave known for its cool climate and snow-capped mountains, offering respite to tourists escaping scorching heat of the plains. The tourism industry in Manali started booming only in the early 20th century, mainly because of its natural bounties and salubrious climate.
Peak Season – Temperatures range from 10°C to 25°C in the peak season. This is between the months of March to June. This is the best time to satiate your curiosity and engage in some sightseeing and adventure activities such as paragliding and trekking.
December end to January is the time when you can enjoy snowfall and the spectacular scenic white views of the surrounding mountains, making it a favourite with the honeymooners.
Manali features a subtropical highland climate (Cfb) with warm summers, relatively cold winters, and a high diurnal temperature variation.
Yes, Manali is definitely a safe place to travel with family.
Solang Valley, 14 KM from Manali, offers various adventure sports and activities like gondola car, amateur skiing, snow scooter, zorbing, paragliding, and helicopter rides. The winters in Solang are extremely fun with all kinds of winter sports on offer.
Solang Valley, Hampta Pass, Sethan, Bhrigu Lake, Deo Tibba, Gulaba, Naggar, Marhi, Patalsu Peak, Kullu, Great Himalayan National Park, Rohtang Pass, Parvati Valley, Kasol and many more.
Manali, at the northern end of the Kullu Valley in Himachal Pradesh, is a hill station at a height of 2,050 m (6,398 ft) in the Himalayas.
The best time to visit Kasol is during summer that is the months from March to June. Nature is at its best during this time. You can even camp outdoors and gaze at the clear night sky scattered with twinkling stars.
Parvati river flowing in sweeping meanders, Kasol.
Himalayan mountains as seen from Kasol.
It is best to avoid the place during monsoon season altogether, owing to the numerous risks and dangers that it entails. It is prone to sudden landslides, roadblocks, cloudbursts, and floods, making it a very risky ordeal.
Apart from the 1 km steep ascent near Kutla Village, the trail mostly easy and even. Apple orchard, the scenic Kutla Village, Tosh River, and a wonderful looking Buddhaban campsite make the highlights of this short trek from Tosh village near Kasol.
Famous places to visit in Kasol are Kheerganga, Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara, Tosh village, and Parvati River.
The nearest airport to Manali is the Kullu-Manali Airport in Bhuntar.
Kheerganga is popular for its hot water spring even during heavy snowfall and bathing in it is an experience you will definitely cherish.
Kheerganga Trek Height is around 2,956 metres above the sea level, the difficulty of the trek ranges from easy to moderate, making it doable for both beginners as well as experienced trekkers.
April to June are the best time to visit Kheerganga.
Kheerganga or Kheer Ganga as the name suggest is Ganga River ( the Ganges River) as White as a Kheer (an Indian sweet dish made from milk and Rice)
Our rooms are on double, triple, and quad sharing basis. (Offers are subject to availability.)
YES, If you want us to design a customized itinerary for you and your family/friends, reach out to us at info@travelmite.com or Call us at 8010000205.
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