Billing

State: Himachal Pradesh
Location: Located in Kangra valley.
Language: Pahari, Hindi and English.

Introduction:
Of late India has emerged as one of the famous destinations for adventure sports. This incredible land is dotted with some salubrious hill stations which are equally significant as tourist place and as adventure destinations. Himachal Pradesh is one such state of India which is blessed with some fantastic places that attracts thousands of adventure buffs.

Popularly known as 'abode of snow', Himachal Pradesh is embellished with snow-capped mountain peaks, verdant valleys, untamed hilly rivers etc which are ideal for various kinds of adventure sports.

Apart from trekking and mountaineering, para-gliding is another adventure sport which is gradually captivating the attention of adventure freaks.

Located at an altitude of 8,500 m above the sea level in Kangra district, Billing is famously known as the para-gliding capital of India. The bald hills of Billing are perfect launching pad for nascent para-gliders. Apart from para-gliding, Billing is also famed for hang gliding. The time period between September to November is suitable for both the sports.

Places To Visit:
Beside being an ideal destination for para-gliding and hang gliding, Billing is also adorned with some alluring tourist spots. Some of the famous tourist spot of Billing are

Bajinath: The ancient temple of Bajinath is dated back to 804 A.D. Built by two merchant brothers, Manuka and Ahuka, Bajinath temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The main attraction of the temple is the 'lingam of Vaidyanatha'(Lord Shiva). People believed that whosoever visit this temple would definitely free from all kind of ailments or their loved ones might be suffering from. Another interesting thing about this place is the water of here. It is said that the water of this place possess excellent digestive properties. Due to which the rulers of Kangra valley used to drink water brought from Bajinath.

Bir: Another charming place nearby to Billing is Bir. It is just 14km (8.70 miles) from Bajinath and famous for an annual fair which held during the holi festival. During this festival, people dressed themselves in colorful attires and dance and sing joyfully. They decorate the Gods in finery, placed them in colorful palanquins and carry out processions. Another main attraction of this fair is lugri, a locally made rice beer.

Adventure Activities To Do:
The picturesque valley of Billing is famous for two of the most exciting forms of adventure sports such as para gliding and hang gliding.

Para-gliding: Unlike mountaineering, trekking, and skiing, para-gliding is a nascent form of adventure sports. Adventure seekers from various parts of the world comes here to enjoy para gliding. Billing is the first place in India which was the venue for the first ever para gliding competition according to the rule of the Federation Of Aeronautics Himalayan Para Gliding Open Championship. This sport can be experienced in the whole year except monsoon season.

Hang gliding: Apart from para gliding, Billing is also famous for hang gliding. It offers 100 kms of up and down and cross country flights. Bir, a nearby place to Billing has hosted three International and five National Hang Gliding championships. August to November is perfect time for hang gliding.

Best Time To Visit:
The ideal time to visit this picture-perfect place of Himachal Pradesh is from March to June and mid August to November.

How To Reach:
By Road: Billing can be easily accessible by bus from Delhi and also from various towns of Himachal Pradesh. One can also hire cabs or jeeps to reach Billing from Bir, which is located just 14 km (8.70 miles) from Billing.

By Rail: Pathankot is the nearest railhead to Billing. Delhi is well connected to Pathankot by various trains.

By Air: The closest airport to Billing is at Guggal in Kangra valley. Direct flights of various airlines operates from Delhi to this place.