Bir, Himachal Pradesh

Bir is a small town in the Himachal foothills, twinned with the launch site of Billing on the ridge above, forming what is widely called the paragliding capital of India. Backed by the Dhauladhar range, the site's long ridge and strong Himalayan thermals have hosted a paragliding World Cup and draw pilots from across the globe.

Flights launch from Billing at around 2,400 metres and land at Bir some 800 metres below, giving a generous descent over terraced fields, forest and Tibetan monasteries. Tandem flights make the experience open to complete beginners, flown by qualified pilots, while experienced flyers use the powerful thermals and ridge lift for long cross-country routes along the Dhauladhar. The strength of the mountain air means conditions can be demanding, so solo pilots need genuine competence and beginners are best served by established operators.

Bir has a distinct Tibetan character, home to refugee monasteries, colourful temples and a relaxed café scene that has made it popular with backpackers and remote workers as well as pilots. Beyond flying, the area offers Himalayan trekking, mountain biking and meditation retreats.

The main flying seasons are autumn and spring, with October and November the peak — stable, clear weather and reliable thermals — and a secondary window from around March to May. The summer monsoon and deep winter largely shut the flying down. Mornings are calmer for tandems, afternoons stronger for cross-country. At altitude the air is cool even in autumn, so bring layers, and keep a spare day for weather.