Hidden Gems

Explore Bir Billing

Why Bir is Popular and What’s the History behind it

Paragliding hub, most atmospheric mountains, and thrilling activities—all in one—are available in Bir Billing. Still, people are confused about visiting this place if they can’t have fun. However, if you are a history lover or a sports enthusiast, this place is perfect for exploring Bir Billing without hesitation. Bir is one of the most famous places in Himachal. Do you know why? Because of its paragliding history, where it all began. Let me take you through the history of Bir and explain why Bir is popular in the Kangra district. Why Bir is popular As you know, Bir is the highest paragliding destination in Asia and the second in the world. However, it is also famous for its smooth take-off and landing viewpoints, as seen in the picture. A famous sport, paragliding, and nobody knows that this sport brings joy to the valley and impacts the Indian economy. Foreigners are also part of the game, where they become jurors or participants. In this sport, you need to fly from Billing, the viewpoint, and land at the marked spot at the landing point in Bir. Whoever comes first and lands at the exact marked point wins. This game has a lot of fans who come to cheer these participants. No, this is not the only reason why Bir is popular. Let me take you through the history of this sport. History of Bir Billing: A Paragliding Recognition In 1980, when French and Russian pilots recognized it as a paragliding site, the history began from here. In 2015, Bir Billing hosted its first Paragliding World Cup in India, where Bir Billing gained popularity. This sport transformed this area completely into a big paragliding destination in Asia. Talking about these two men who taught Bir’s people how to do paragliding, they also found this place as the best for paragliding due to geographical conditions and strong thermal winds. Not only locals but also tourists are attracted by this sport and come only for paragliding. All you need to know about Bir Dhauladhar mountains and Kangra valley are all around the Bir Billing location. The best season to go to Bir Billing is from February to June and from September to the end of November. It is not suitable during the monsoon season. Also, I want to tell you that Bir and Billing are two distinct locations where Bir has the landing viewpoint and Billing has the take-off viewpoint from the top of the mountain. Bir’s altitude is 1525 m, and on the other side, Billing’s altitude is 2400 m. Places to explore in Bir Kangra Fort in Bir Have you ever seen any videos on Instagram of Kangra Valley? Yes, you have seen it, but you have no idea where it is. Well, I know that it is not far away from the Palampur road. However, you may find multiple tourist places to explore in Kangra valley as well when you are planning to visit Bir Billing. Kangra Fort is one of the most popular tourist spots that grabs people’s attention. This place is not too far from Bir; you can take a bus to Palampur and get off at Kangra valley. Baijnath Temple and Monasteries in Bir You can also explore the Baijnath temple in Kangra Valley, only 20 minutes away from Bir’s landing point. While exploring Bir, you can visit the tea factory in Bir as well, but not on Sunday; it’s a holiday. Plenty of monasteries are also located in this area, which look enchanting in the mountains. Gunehar Waterfall Looking for a waterfall here? Yes, you can explore Gunehar Waterfall, but take a guide with you because the rocks are dangerous. You can trek or book a cab from the landing point or bus stand to visit Gunehar Waterfall. Let’s sum it up Now, you know why Bir Billing is popular, and what other places you can explore in Bir Billing or Kangra valley. This place is a must-visit and should add to your bucket list. The cost of paragliding starts from ₹2500 to ₹5000. So buckle up, guys—this is your moment to be part of the historic event in Bir because every year it organises this event. If you are still thinking of how to go and where to explore, read this blog as well to know more about Bir and its famous places.

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Places to Explore in Jibhi, Mini thailand

3D/7N Jibhi Itinerary: Where to Go and Plan a Day Accordingly

Day 0: from Delhi to Aut If nature had a playlist, Jibhi would be its most soothing song. Add the spice of Jalori Pass and the calm of Tirthan Valley. And here’s your perfect 3-day Jibhi itinerary with a proper plan! Let’s pack our bags, lace up those shoes, and hit the road. Your trip begins from Delhi in the evening. Catch an overnight Volvo or HRTC bus to AUT (near Banjar)—trust us, AUT is not just a point on the map, it’s the gateway to paradise. Travel Tip: You can book your bus from ISBT Kashmere Gate or online via HRTC/Redbus. Departure around 6–8 PM works best for a smooth night ride. Distance: Delhi to Aut – approx. 500 km, takes 11–12 hours. Bring a neck pillow, download your favorite playlist, and let the mountains come to you as you sleep. Day 1: Jibhi Waterfall, Beas River & Mini Thailand You’ll reach AUT early in the morning (around 6–7 AM). From here, grab a local bus or a shared taxi to Jibhi—a scenic journey of about 1.5 hours through pine-scented hills and postcard views. First Stop: Check in near the Jibhi Waterfall area. There are some lovely riverside homestays and wooden cottages that look like they popped out of a fairy tale.           Let’s Explore Jibhi After freshening up and devouring a Himachali-style breakfast (hello, siddu!), It’s time to hit the trail—on foot! Jibhi Waterfall—Just a short walk away, this natural beauty is the perfect place to get your feet wet (literally) and fill your feed with serene shots. Kulhi Katandi at Beas River – Walk along the gentle river trail surrounded by boulders and trees that whisper stories. Chill by the stream, dip your toes in the icy water, or just sit and zone out. Mini Thailand Viewpoint – A hidden gem that’s straight out of Southeast Asia. Lush greenery, flowing water, and bamboo-like vibes—it’s the ultimate “Did I teleport?” moment. Evening Vibes: Head back to your stay for a bonfire night. Some cafes even host live music on weekends. Day 2: Jalori Pass – Serolsar Lake – Raghupur Fort Rise and shine early—this day is pure adventure! Rent a scooty (budget-friendly) or hire a taxi (for a comfier ride). Scooty rent is approx. ₹800–₹1000/day, and taxis may cost ₹2500–₹3000 for a day tour. First Stop: Jalori Pass Located at about 10,000 feet, Jalori Pass is your window to high-altitude wonders. The air is crisp, the view is vast, and the real fun is just beginning. Serolsar Lake Trek – 5 km A moderately easy trek through dense forests with rhododendrons, deodars, and birds chirping in surround sound. It takes 1.5 to 2 hours one-way, and once you reach the lake, you’ll be spellbound. It’s peaceful, sacred, and glistening like a mountain secret. Raghupur Fort Trek (and That YJHD Shot!) Back at Jalori Pass, it’s time for a short but steep trek to the Raghupur Fort ruins. The views? Absolutely 360 degrees of WOW. This spot also featured in Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani—so don’t be shy to recreate Bunny & Naina moments! If you’re lucky, you’ll see rolling clouds below your feet. Return back to Jibhi in the evening. Tired legs, but a happy soul. Overnight Stay: Jibhi (Recharge for tomorrow!) Day 3: Tirthan Valley & Chhoie Waterfall Trek Wake up early (around 7–8 AM) and check out. It’s time to explore the hidden gem – Tirthan Valley, just 45 minutes from Jibhi. Take a local cab or shared ride to Gushaini, the heart of Tirthan. Grab a quick breakfast and head straight for the Chhoie Waterfall Trek. Chhoie Waterfall Trek – 3 km of Magic The trail is a mix of forest paths, local homes, and birdsong. As you trek uphill, the excitement builds with every step. And then—BOOM—the waterfall appears, crashing down in a private concert of nature. Chill here, take a dip if you dare, and soak in the last bit of Himachal before heading back. Total trek time: Around 45 Minutes Don’t litter because it’s a holy place, and leave only footprints behind. Head back to the Gushaini bus point or Banjar bus stand, take a shared ride or taxi to AUT, and from there, catch your return bus to Delhi. Pro Tip: Book your return bus for 6–7 PM from AUT to avoid any rush or delays.Trip Ends—But the Mountains Stay in Your Heart This 3-day Jibhi itinerary for Jalori Pass and Tirthan Valley offers everything: peaceful walks, thrilling treks, picture-perfect views, and a soul reset. You’ll come back with aching legs but a heart full of stories.

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Meghalaya Itinerary 7 days Foods and Stay

Meghalaya Itinerary (7 days) Food and Stay Tips

Meghalaya is a wonderland of luscious hills, glistening rivers, and majestic waterfalls. June is a great time to visit since the monsoon brings life to the location’s environment, enhancing the grandeur of waterfalls like Nohkalikai and Seven Sisters. The weather is cool, the hills are blanketed in mist, and the beauty of nature is at its height. June is the ideal month to visit clean villages like Mawlynnong, live root bridges, and caverns. Meghalaya is a fantastic getaway from the city’s hustle into untouched peace if you enjoy rain, the outdoors, and unusual experiences. Here’s a 7-day Meghalaya itinerary from Delhi, covering major attractions and local experiences, with travel details, ideal for a nature and culture lover: Trip Overview Duration: 7 Days Start Point: Delhi End Point: Delhi Transport: Flight + Private Cab Best Time: October to April Day 1: Delhi to Guwahati – Drive to Shillong (3 hrs) Morning: Flight from Delhi to Guwahati (2.5 hrs) Afternoon: Pick-up from Guwahati Airport, drive to Shillong  Stop at Umiam Lake for boating & photos Evening: Check-in at hotel, relax at Police Bazaar Overnight: Shillong Highlights: Umiam Lake, Local food, Shopping Try: Jadoh (local Khasi rice dish), Momos Day 2: Shillong Sightseeing Morning: Elephant Falls Shillong Peak (Highest point, panoramic view) Afternoon: Don Bosco Museum (Tribal culture) Wards Lake for boating Evening: Café hopping or local market visit Overnight: Shillong Highlights: Culture + Nature + Local Life Day 3: Shillong – Laitlum Canyons – Mawlynnong – Dawki (5–6 hrs drive total) Early Morning: Drive to Laitlum Canyon – great for photos & trek Midday: Visit Mawlynnong – Asia’s cleanest village Explore Sky Walk & Balancing Rock Evening: Reach Dawki , check-in riverside camp/hotel Overnight: Dawki Highlights: Laitlum views, Mawlynnong village, Clean surroundings Day 4: Dawki – Cherrapunji (4 hrs) Morning Boating in Dawki River (transparent waters) Visit India-Bangladesh border at Tamabil Afternoon: Drive to Cherrapunji En route: Bophill Waterfalls , Scenic drive Evening: Reach hotel, explore nearby trails Overnight: Cherrapunji Highlights: River boating, Border crossing view, Waterfalls Day 5: Cherrapunji Sightseeing Full Day: Nohkalikai Falls (India’s highest plunge waterfall) Seven Sisters Falls Mawsmai Caves (limestone caves) Eco Park Local orange honey shopping Evening: Relax at hotel Overnight: Cherrapunji Highlights: Majestic waterfalls, Caving adventure, Natural beauty Day 6: Double Decker Living Root Bridge Trek (Tyrna Village) Early Morning: Drive to Tyrna Village Full Day: Trek (~3500 steps one way) to Double Decker Living Root Bridge Optional: Visit Rainbow Falls (if you’re fit) Evening: Return to Cherrapunji, relax Overnight: Cherrapunji Highlights: Adventure, Unique bridges, Jungle walk Fitness Required: Moderate to high Day 7: Return to Guwahati – Fly back to Delhi Morning: Drive back to Guwahati (~6 hrs) Evening: Take return flight to Delhi Tips Book flights and accommodations in advance  Carry warm clothes and rain gear (weather can be unpredictable) Hire a local driver/guide for a smoother trip  Network issues may occur in remote areas Stay hydrated during treks

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yulla kanda

A Perfect Budget-Friendly Travel Itinerary for Yulla Kanda: World’s Highest Krishna Temple

The Yulla Kanda Krishna Temple is one of the highest Krishna temples in the world and lies in the Kinanur district of Himachal Pradesh. This destination is perfect for adventure lovers and spiritual explorers. It is a blend of divine peace and raw wilderness. You may have seen this place on your social media once in a lifetime, but never get a chance to explore. Yulla Kanda is a hidden gem in the Himalayas, offering a unique blend of spiritual serenity and adventurous trekking. It is situated at an altitude of approximately 3,895 meters (12,778 feet). At this altitude, there is a lake around the world’s highest Krishna temple that will leave you awe-inspired. Devotees believe that this temple was established by the Pandavas during their exile. I will tell you this story in the next blog about what scientists have said about this place while researching. Till then, you need to know how to reach Yulla Kanda and what it will cost. How to Reach Yulla Kanda If we combine road trips with thrilling treks to reach Yulla Kanda then it is an adventure in itself. Here’s a step-by-step guide to make it easy for you to go: From Delhi to Reckong Peo Start your journey from Delhi by boarding a bus to Reckong Peo. You will get HRCTC buses which are government buses of Himachal Pradesh. The approximate cost for this ride is ₹1,000. Reckong Peo is the heart of Kinnaur and a mesmerizing place for exploration. From Reckong Peo to Yulla Khas Village From Reckong Peo, take another bus to Yulla Khas Village. The bus fare is less than ₹100, but if you prefer a more private ride, take a shared cab for ₹400 to ₹600. These drivers can charge you more if you don’t know the actual price. Day 1: Arriving at Yulla Khas Village Once you reach Yulla Khas Village, find accommodation and then rest up for the exciting trek ahead. Most stays cost around ₹1,200, including meals. You can’t go for the Yulla Kanda trek at night, but you can explore Yulla Khas and meet new people. Moreover, you can also understand their culture, prepare for the next day’s trek, and what is needed for the trek. Also, sleep early to start trekking early at 6 AM. Day 2: Trekking to the Base Camps Trek Distance: 12 KM Base Camps:- First Base Camp (8 KM) Second Base Camp (10 KM) Start your day with a heavy breakfast—there are no cafés or restaurants along the trek path (keep in mind always). For those who may find the 12 KM trek challenging, take solace in knowing you can stop at either of the two base camps. If you want to stay at the camp, call the owners of the base camps to reach out and set up camp if you have a group. Because sometimes they usually don’t go over there if they do not find any tourists. The trek through dense forests, rocky terrains, long stairs, and open skies will invigorate your senses. Once you arrive at the first base camp (prices are around ₹1,200 per night, including meals). The site offers a peaceful experience, perfect for stargazing in the middle of the mountains. Day 3: Visiting Yulla Kanda Krishna Temple Rise early the next morning to reach the Yulla Kanda Krishna Temple. After a 4 KM trek from the base camp, you’ll find yourself standing before the temple— The epicenter of a truce and spirituality. Spend 2 to 3 hours exploring the temple, capture a moment with your camera, and enjoy a mind-blowing view. Post-visit, trek back to the base camp, and have your breakfast. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider extending your stay at the base camp for 2 to 3 days to appreciate this region’s magnificence. Day 4: Return to Yulla Khas Village With a heart full of memories and a mind refreshed, start to trek back to Yulla Khas Village. You can either spend another night in the village or go back to Reckong Peo. As I said, this place also offers an epic view of the coast of rivers. You can easily find places to stay at the cheapest price One more thing: if you want to go back, you need to find a bus before 5 PM. HRCTC buses return to Shimla before sunset. Important Tips for a Hassle-Free Trip Solo Travelers Beware: Avoid trekking alone. Hire a guide for safety and navigation. Weather recommendation: Plan your trip between March and November, as the base camps are mostly deserted during the harsh winter months from the end of November to February. But if you want to go, you can visit, but staying there can be risky. About Meals: Have a filling breakfast before the trek and carry some snacks, as no eateries are available. Camping Options: If you have your camping gear, you can set up a camp at the base camps for ₹200 to ₹300. And if you want to get a meal, you can ask the camp’s owner. They will charge 200-300 max. Why Visit Yulla Kanda? Yulla Kanda is not just a destination; it’s a spiritual experience at the top. From the moment you set foot in the serene village of Yulla Khas to the time you stand in awe of the world’s highest Krishna temple. Every step immerses you in nature’s grandeur and among the heartwarming people. Whether you’re a beginner trekker, a spiritual seeker, or a person who wants to escape and sleep in nature’s land, Yulla Kanda offers something extraordinary. budget-Friendly travel Delhi to Shimla (Bus/Train) ₹800–₹1,200 (HRCTC buses are available that will drop you directly reckon Peo at 1000, but it’s hectic) Shimla to Reckong Peo (Bus/Taxi) ₹500–₹700 Reckong Peo to Yulla Khas (Bus/Cab) ₹100–₹600 Homestay in Yulla Khas (per night) ₹1,200 Base Camp Stay (including meals) ₹1,200 Own Camp Setup Charges ₹200–₹300 Guide Charges (per day) ₹1,000–₹1,500 So, pack your bags, lace up your trekking boots, and get ready to embark

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