A favorite activity of #VayuKutir visitors is #Paragliding at #BirBilling, which is 100 kms - around 3 hrs by road or Kangra valley heritage railway - from #VayuKutir.
The journey is scenic via Kangra, Palampur & Baijnath - three of the most beautiful Kangra valley towns. Our drive yesterday took us past a colorful school short of Palampur and a hydel project past Baijnath.
Bir, the landing point for the gliders, is in Mandi district just beyond Kangra district border. Those not upto the thrill of a soaring in the sky like an eagle for 20-30 min can vicariously enjoy the activity watching gliders land at Bir
If you are up to the thrill, you can book a glider ride for Rs 2,500/-. A pickup vehicle will drive you to Billing the launch point of the gliders. The 45 mi drive up 1000 ft is a thrill by itself!
There are several launch points at Billing. The view of Bir and the valley below is exhilarating. During our visit we found more children and young women taking rides than men. Just sayin...
Children taking a ride have to be accompanied by an adult so that the two seater paraglider has enough all up weight for adequate control. You are kitted with helmet, bum cushion and most importantly a GoPro camera on a selfie strick!
The selfie stick can be a great stress buster for those uncomfortable with heights. I don't know if that was the case with this joy rider. If you are enthusiastic enough your pilot can keep you in the air for 30 mins.
Longer flights lasting 2-3 hrs are possible if the weather conditions are favorable. The pilot can take you to Dharamshala and back but the costs go up to around Rs 10,000/-
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