MANDI: Himachal Pradesh’s picturesque Bir Billing in Kangra district will host the Paragliding World Cup 2024 from November 2 to November 9. Recognised internationally as a top paragliding destination, Bir Billing is set to welcome over 75 elite pilots representing 32 countries, including the US, France, Poland, Belgium and India.
As global enthusiasts gather in the serene valley, the event promises an awe-inspiring week of aerial acrobatics and high-flying competitions that will also spotlight India’s adventure tourism potential.
Iconic venue with rich history
Bir Billing is celebrated for its ideal paragliding conditions, drawing thousands of thrill-seekers each year. After successfully hosting the Paragliding World Cup in 2015, the region is thrilled to welcome the world’s best paragliders once again.
Organised by the Billing Paragliding Association (BPA) and Himachal Pradesh’s Department of Tourism Development, with approval from the Paragliding World Cup Association of France (PWCAF), this World Cup is expected to further establish Bir Billing as a premier paragliding venue.
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In preparation for the event, organisers have meticulously arranged state-of-the-art facilities. Bir Billing has been outfitted with modern shelters, eco-friendly toilets, benches and solar lighting at the take-off site. Road repairs are also being completed to enhance connectivity and accommodate the influx of visitors.
To ensure pilot safety, nine specialised rescue teams have been formed, while five additional teams with helicopter and ambulance services will be on standby during the event. These teams, stationed strategically throughout the Bir Billing valley, aim to provide rapid response and protection for participants.
70 pilots disqualified over licensing issues
While the competition initially drew registrations from nearly 145 pilots across 50 countries, the PWCAF has imposed stringent licensing and ranking requirements. As a result, approximately 70 pilots had their registrations cancelled after failing to meet these standards, leaving the most qualified pilots to participate.
Take-off, landing points at stunning altitudes
The breathtaking take-off site in Billing, situated at 2,600 metres above sea level, will allow pilots to launch into the skies before descending to the landing zone in Bir, located at 2,080 metres.
This altitude difference, combined with the scenic Himalayan backdrop, offers a unique and thrilling experience for pilots and spectators alike.
Legacy of international championships
Bir Billing has steadily built a legacy in the international paragliding community, hosting the Pre-World Cup in 2013, the National Open Accuracy Championship in 2016, the AF Dare Devil Sky Diving Show in 2017, the Accuracy Paragliding Pre-World Cup India in 2023, and the XC Paragliding Pre-World Cup in 2023. Each event has drawn positive attention and solidified Bir Billing’s reputation as a premier destination for adventure sports.
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Boost to Himachal tourism and global recognition
BPA president Anurag Sharma emphasised that preparations for the World Cup are in the final stages, expressing optimism that this event will bolster Himachal Pradesh’s global tourism profile.
“Bir Billing has become a preferred destination for paragliding enthusiasts worldwide, and the World Cup will further cement its place on the international map,” Sharma noted. He anticipates that the event will attract more visitors to the region, spurring local businesses and tourism-related services.
The Paragliding World Cup will be inaugurated by RS Bali, Chairman of the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation, while the closing ceremony is expected to feature Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu as the chief guest.
As the world watches, the event promises to highlight the adventure tourism potential of Himachal Pradesh, bringing international visibility and prestige to the state’s natural beauty and paragliding prowess.
