Understand

Bir is a charming mountain town nestled in the picturesque northern Himachal Pradesh. Surrounded by the majestic Dhauladhar Range of the Indian Himalayas, Bir offers a scenic landscape that will leave you in awe. However, it's important to note that the Tibetan Colony in Bir, situated down the hill from the main town, presents a stark contrast with its littered roads and waterways. Despite this, the golden-roofed temples and the verdant surroundings of Upper Bir, also known as "Indian Bir" or "Upper Bir", exude a serene beauty. Bir proper, which is the small market and the farming community situated above Chowgan, adds to the overall charm of this place.

The founding of Bir dates back to around 1600 C.E. when immigrants from Bengal settled in Bir proper. Over time, additional groups migrated to Bir, starting in the early 20th century C.E. This blend of cultures has shaped the vibrant community that exists today. For more information on the fascinating history of Bir, you can visit birhp.com.

The Tibetan Colony in Bir has a compelling story of its own. In 1966, the third Neten Chokling, an esteemed lama of the Nyingma lineage of Tibetan Buddhism, arrived in Bir along with his family and a small entourage. With the support of foreign aid, Neten Chokling obtained over 200 acres of land and established a Tibetan settlement where 300 Tibetan families were given land to build their homes. It was also during this time that the construction of the new Neten Monastery began, serving as a place of worship and education for the growing sangha. This extraordinary journey was captured in the 1999 feature film "The Cup" directed by Khyentse Norbu. If you're curious to learn more about this film, you can check out its IMDb page here.

Bir is home to several other Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, each with its own unique teachings and guidance. The Palyul Chkhorling Monastery, under the guidance of Rigo Tulku Rinpoche, and the Bir Dirru Monastery / Bir Sakya Lama Society, under the guidance of the 15th Gyalsay Tulku Rinpoche and the 14th Dungyud Rinpoche, are worth exploring. Additionally, the Drikung Dozin Theckcho Ling Monastery, led by Ontl Rinpoche, adds to the spiritual tapestry of Bir.

If you're planning a visit to Bir-Billing, you can find a wealth of information and support at the Bir Portal. This community-supported online guide offers valuable insights for both visitors and residents of the greater Bir area.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Dish: Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)Butter chicken is a rich and creamy curry made with marinated chicken pieces cooked in a tomato-based sauce. The dish originated in the Indian subcontinent and gained popularity in Canada due to the large population of Indian immigrants. It's typically served with basmati rice and naan bread. Butter chicken contains meat – chicken.

Dish: BiryaniBiryani is a popular rice dish made by cooking Basmati rice with meat (usually chicken, goat, or fish), vegetables, yogurt, and a blend of spices. It originates from the Indian subcontinent and is often considered the national dish of Pakistan. It's known for its flavorful layers and distinct aroma. Biryani contains meat – primarily chicken, goat, or fish.

Dish: SamosasSamosas are deep-fried or baked pastry snacks filled with a savory mixture of spiced potatoes, onions, peas, and sometimes meat. They originate from South Asia and have become a popular street food across India. Often served as an appetizer or a quick snack, samosas can be found at roadside stalls, train stations, and even weddings. Samosas can contain meat – typically potatoes, onions, and peas, but some varieties may include meat such as chicken or lamb.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing