8 off-beat things to do in Bir if you're scared of Paragliding

Bir held Paragliding World Cup in 2015, with that news, Bir became the paragliding capital of India and the tourists came pouring in. Though this place is largely known for its paragliding, there are a plethora of exciting activities you can indulge in if you're scared of heights.

1. Bicycling

The best way to see a place is on a bicycle. Bir has the most optimal terrain to pedal on. You can see the vast unexplored region, the forests, the nature trails and the uncharted valley views.

Where: Hire an e-bike from LetsPlay, (available at Hosteller, Hipostel and a few other hostels)

Contact: 7807702595

Cost: Rs 600/6hrs

2. Watching the sunset at the landing site

This is the Marine Drive of Bir, one can sit there for hours just watching the gliders land. From capturing the sweet and raw emotions of a person who has just returned to land after living the life of a bird to watching the magnificent sunsets. If you're lucky enough, you can spot the sun, moon and a star simultaneously in one frame.

Where: Landing Site, Bir (Near Himalayan Pizza)

Cost: Free

3. Toy Train journey (Ahju to Joginder Nagar and back)

Thanks to the Britishers for getting Toy Train India (Kalka to Shimla). These slow-moving cute trains run through the valleys and tunnels inaccessible to other citizens. Toy Trains are known for offering enchantingly scenic views of the Himalayas.

Where: Ahju Railway Station

Cost: ₹27/journey

4. Haulage trolly ride to Shannon Power House

*HIDDEN TREASURE* A super-rare place among not just tourists but also the locals. This place is tucked in Joginder Nagar, a tram ride which was built by the Britishers to reach second hydro-electric power station of India - Shannon Power House. The tram was built in the 1920s and feels unsafe but worth the risk.

Where: Shannon Power House, Joginder Nagar

Cost: Free

5. Karaoke nights, live music and sunsets at Cafes

Bir is the hill-station for the youth and we take our cafes seriously. We want the food-joint to have beautiful ambience, scenic views and delicious food. Bir has cafes which can tick all the checkboxes. You can attend karaoke nights at Himalayan Pizza, Eat for free at 'Sasta Cafe' as they have a pay as you like' policy, watch sunsets and gliders from Northern cafe.

Must Read: paragliding in bir billing

Where: Northern Cafe (for views), Sasta Cafe (pay as you like), Avva's Cafe, Himalayan Pizza (Live music and karaoke), Bombay Local (Street style food)

Cost: ₹200-600 (for two)

6. Trek to Gunehr Waterfall

Gunehr waterfall is tucked in mountain woods for the adventure seeker in you. One has to complete a short 20-30mins trek to reach this hidden waterfall. Don't be surprised if you're the only one on the trail, solitude in the woods is the best part about this fall.

7. Stay at a hostel

As this hill-station is for the millennials, you'll find plenty of hostels here. Almost every popular hostel chain in India has a hostel in Bir. Live and interact with fellow travellers from around the world.

Where: Zostel, Hipostel, GoStops, Hosteller, The Bunker, Karyashaala

Cost: ₹300-600/bunk bed (appx.)

8. Learn about Buddhism

Bir is home to a Tibetan refugee settlement with several Buddhist monasteries and a large stupa. Monks at these monasteries are really welcoming and are happy to share the history and culture of Buddhism.

Where: Sherabling Monastery

Price: Free

Bir has something for everyone, be it the adventurer in you or the peace-craving adult. It never fails to amuse, there's not any ideal season to visit this hill-station as every season has its own charm in the paragliding capital.