Take the Wheel to Bir Billing: A Self-Drive Adventure to Nature and Thrills

There’s something undeniably freeing about the open road—especially when it winds its way into the heart of the Himalayas. If you’re based in Chandigarh and looking for a refreshing weekend escape filled with scenic drives, adventure sports, mountain air, and cultural charm, then Bir Billing should be at the top of your list.

Nestled in the serene Kangra Valley of Himachal Pradesh, Bir Billing is widely known as the paragliding capital of India. But this quiet village offers more than just thrills in the sky—it’s a haven for road trip lovers, nature enthusiasts, backpackers, and anyone looking to unwind in the lap of the mountains.

With a self-drive car, the journey becomes part of the adventure. You control the pace, the playlist, and the stops. Whether you’re into spontaneous detours or scenic tea breaks, a road trip to Bir Billing gives you the flexibility to explore Himachal’s lesser-known gems on your own terms.

This guide is your complete itinerary for a weekend road trip from Chandigarh to Bir Billing, with all the details you need to plan the perfect self-drive escape.

Road Trip Overview: Chandigarh to Bir Billing

Starting Point: Chandigarh
Destination: Bir Billing, Himachal Pradesh
Distance: Approx. 280 kilometers
Drive Time: Around 7–8 hours
Ideal Duration: 2 nights, 3 days
Route: Chandigarh → Una → Kangra → Palampur → Bir → Billing

The route is a blend of smooth highways and scenic mountain roads, offering a gradual shift from the cityscape to forested hills and peaceful villages.

Route Breakdown with Recommended Stops

Chandigarh to Una (120 km, 2.5 hours)

A smooth drive through Punjab’s countryside. Stop for breakfast at a highway-side dhaba before crossing into Himachal Pradesh.

Una to Kangra (90 km, 2.5 hours)

Expect greener views and winding roads. If you’re ahead of schedule, consider a short detour to the ancient Mata Chintpurni Temple or Pong Dam for lakeside views.

Kangra to Palampur (35 km, 1 hour)

Palampur offers lush tea gardens and peaceful cafes. It’s the perfect mid-way halt for lunch or a scenic tea break.

Palampur to Bir (35 km, 1 hour)

As you climb toward Bir, you’ll pass small villages, pine forests, and glimpses of snow-capped peaks.

Best Time to Visit Bir Billing

March to June

Pleasant weather, ideal for paragliding and outdoor activities.

October to November

Post-monsoon freshness, crisp mountain air, and stunning sunset views.

Winter (December to February)

Chilly, sometimes snowy, and beautiful—but paragliding may be limited depending on wind conditions.

Avoid July to September

Monsoons can bring heavy rain, fog, and slippery roads—not ideal for driving or flying.

Top Things to Do in Bir Billing

Paragliding at Billing

Bir Billing is one of the world’s top paragliding sites. The launch site is at Billing (2,400 meters), and flights land in Bir (1,525 meters), covering about 14 km. The views over the Dhauladhar range and Kangra Valley are spectacular.

Trekking and Short Hikes

Rajgundha Trek: A moderate 12 km hike through forests and meadows.
Gunehar Waterfall Trail: A shorter walk with a waterfall reward at the end.

Monastery Visits and Tibetan Culture

Chokling Monastery: Beautiful architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
Tsering Jong Monastery: A quiet retreat surrounded by forest.
Deer Park Institute: Hosts spiritual retreats, philosophy lectures, and workshops.

Café Hopping and Local Food

Bir’s cafés are popular among travelers and digital nomads. Some favorites include:

June16 Café – Excellent breakfast and coffee.
Garden Café – Organic, farm-style food.
Nyingma Kitchen – Authentic Tibetan dishes and peaceful vibes.
Also try local momos, thukpa, and Himachali siddu from roadside eateries.

Shopping in Bir Market

Shop for woollen wear, handmade jewelry, Tibetan prayer items, and local snacks. The market is small but has unique finds.

Tips for a Safe and Comfortable Self-Drive Trip

Start early to avoid traffic and reach before dark.
Fuel up at Una or Palampur. Fuel stations become sparse after that.
Carry cash, especially for small cafés, tolls, and local markets.
Keep offline maps or GPS backup in case of signal loss in the hills.
Use low gears on steep descents, and drive slowly around bends.
Pack light, but bring a warm jacket, sunscreen, and trekking shoes.

Rent a Self Drive Car in Chandigarh with Selfspin

For the perfect road trip, you need the right car—and with Selfspin, planning your getaway becomes seamless. Selfspin offers a wide range of vehicles for every kind of traveler, making it the go-to choice for anyone looking for a self drive car rental in Chandigarh.

With Selfspin, you get:

A quick and easy way to rent a self drive car in Chandigarh via app or website
A wide selection of vehicles—compact cars, sedans, SUVs, and more
Clean, sanitized vehicles ideal for hill travel
Affordable rates and flexible rental durations
24/7 roadside assistance and full insurance coverage

Whether you're planning a spontaneous road trip or a carefully curated weekend escape, Selfspin ensures a smooth ride from start to finish. So next time you're looking for a self drive car on rent in Chandigarh, trust Selfspin to get you there comfortably and safely.

Bir Billing is more than just a paragliding spot—it’s a peaceful yet vibrant destination, perfect for unwinding, reconnecting with nature, and embracing adventure. And there’s no better way to reach it than by taking the scenic route with a self-drive car.

So go ahead—map out your route, pack your bags, and let the hills work their magic. The mountains are calling, and the road is ready.

By : Selfspin ,

Tags : Self Drive Cars in ChandigarhSelf Drive Car Rental in Chandigarh