Bandipur is a hilltop town in the Tanahun District of central Nepal. It is a traditional Neari town with a beautiful combination of culture, history, and natural wonder. This town is known for its well-preserved
Newari architecture and breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Bandipur is one of Nepal’s hidden gems. The city is 80 km east of Pokhara and 143 km west of Kathmandu. Bandipur provides a relaxing escape from the tourist-filled areas, allowing tourists to experience an unhurried pace of life and extensive cultural experience.
A Path Through Time: Bandipur’s History
Bandipur’s history is deeply connected to the Newar community, an ethnic group in Nepal with a high social status. At first, Bandipur was a simple Magar village; the Magar immigrated to Nepal from Tibet. However, it became prominent during the 18th century as Newar traders moved from Bhaktapur and settled there. They turned Bandipur into a significant trade center. Bandipur then became a stop on the India-Tibet trade route, exchanging goods like herbs, spices, metals, and animals. Newar traders influence the town’s architectural style, with traditional wooden structures, intricately carved windows, and streets paved with stone that take tourists back to the past.
. In the 1960s, the Prithvi Highway bypassed Bandipur and caused a decline in both population and trade. In a way, this was a good thing as it allowed the town to preserve its cultural and architectural heritage, making Bandipur one of the best-preserved evidence of Newari architecture outside of the Kathmandu Valley.
Getting to Bandipur
Bandipur is accessible from Kathmandu and Pokhara. From Kathmandu, it’s 5 hours of driving along the Prithvi Highway, and from Pokhara, it is about two hours. The drive to Bandipur is as beautiful as the place, as the road winds through beautiful fields, terraced hills, and charming villages. Both local and tourist bus services are available from Kathmandu and Pokhara, but it will be better to take a tourist bus. When you arrive in the town, the town’s main square will greet you welcome. The town’s main square is lined with traditional Newari houses, cafes, and shops, creating a charming and welcoming atmosphere.
One of Bandipur’s distinctive features is that the town is entirely car-free within its central region. This feature has preserved the town’s tranquility, allowing tourists to wander on foot without worrying about modern traffic.
Bandipur’s Cultural and Architectural Heritage
The essence of Bandipur is its beautiful, well-preserved architecture and rich cultural heritage. The town’s main street is called the bazaar, where 18th-century beautiful Newari buildings line each side. These buildings are distinguished by their brick walls, wood windows, and tile roofs, which give Bandipur its distinctive character. Walking along the narrow stone streets is like going back in time since the town’s layout and architectural style have remained unchanged for centuries.
Several notable landmarks highlight Bandipur’s architectural beauty and historical importance. Bindhyabasini Temple, dedicated to the goddess Bindhyabasini, stands at the town’s highest point. It offers a glimpse into the religious practices of the locals and stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The temple is a popular spot for visitors to enjoy the sunrise and sunset, with the Himalayas in the background adding to its attraction.
Bandipur also hosts several Newari festivals throughout the year, including Bisket Jatra and Indra Jatra, which provide an opportunity to witness the vibrant traditions of the Newar community. These festivals feature traditional music, masked dances, and religious rituals passed down through generations, allowing visitors to engage in the town’s cultural rhythms.
The Breathtaking Views of Bandipur
Bandipur’s biggest attraction is its breathtaking view overlooking the Himalayan range. On a clear day, tourists can enjoy stunning views of some of the world’s highest peaks, including Dhaulagiri (8,167 feet), Manaslu (8,156 meters), and the Annapurna range. The snow-capped giants contrast stunningly against the green hills that sway in the wind.
The best viewpoints in Bandipur are at the Tundikhel, an open plateau on the edge of the town. Originally used as a parade ground during the colonial era, Tundikhel is now a popular spot for locals and tourists to gather, relax, and enjoy the views. It’s particularly magical during sunrise and sunset when the changing colors of the sky paint the mountains in hues of pink, orange, and gold.
Activities and Attractions in Bandipur
While Bandipur is often considered a place for relaxation and enjoying the culture, there are plenty of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy.
1. Hiking and Nature Walks
For those who enjoy hiking, Bandipur has a variety of trails that offer breathtaking views.
A hike to Ramkot Village, about two hours away, offers an authentic glimpse into rural Nepali life. Ramkot is a traditional Magar village whose lifestyle remains largely untouched by the modern world. The trail to Ramkot is scenic, passing through forests, terraced fields, and tiny hamlets. The view from the village is spectacular, with the Himalayan range stretching as far as the eye can see.
Siddha Gufa (Siddha Cave) is a short hike from the town and a must-see for people interested in caving and underground formations. It is the largest cave in Nepal, and exploring its vast chambers filled with
stalactites and stalagmites is a thrilling experience. The cave is both a natural wonder and a spiritual site, as local legends suggest that ascetics once used it for meditation. The hike to the cave is moderately challenging; it takes around 90 minutes. You will get a guide for Rs 200 (Rs 100 for the entry itself and Rs 100 for the guide) for 45 minutes. However, the trek through the dense forest and terraced fields is well worth the effort.
Another popular hike is to the Thani Mai Temple, located on the top of a hill overlooking Bandipur. The hike takes about 30 minutes and is relatively easy, making it accessible to most visitors. The temple is modest, but the view from the top is breathtaking, offering a 360-degree panorama of the Himalayas, Bandipur, and the surrounding countryside.
2. Cultural Exploration
If you are interested in local culture, the Bandipur Cultural Center is a must. The center exhibits the rich history and culture of the Newar people and other ethnic communities in the region. Tourists can discover traditional music, crafts, and celebrations and even take part in cultural workshops.
Bandipur also has a vibrant artisan community, with several shops selling locally made handicrafts, including pottery, woven textiles, and wood carvings. These crafts make for unique souvenirs and glimpse the town’s artistic heritage.
3. Relaxation and Leisure
For travelers desiring a peaceful getaway, Bandipur is an ideal destination. The town’s tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking natural beauty make it a great relaxing place. Many guesthouses and cafes in Bandipur provide outdoor seating with panoramic views of mountains, allowing people to rest with the taste of coffee or tea while enjoying the stunning scenery.
Several wellness retreats and yoga centers are also located in and around Bandipur, where visitors can participate in meditation and yoga sessions, further enhancing the sense of peace and relaxation the town offers
4. Bandipur Cable car
Bandipur Cable Car has been operational since June 24. It covers 1700 meters to the top within 7 to 10 minutes. The cable car, which starts from Thuldhungaswara, reaches the height of Bandipur via the Siddha Gufa side.
The ticket price for foreigners is $15 per person two-way and Rs 700 for SAARC countries. There is a drive-in restaurant at the bottom station of the cable car.
Sustainable Tourism in Bandipur
Bandipur’s focus on sustainable tourism is impressive. The town has embraced eco-friendly practices, with many guest houses using solar power and rainwater harvesting systems. Furthermore, the local community has taken steps to preserve the town’s cultural heritage and natural environment, ensuring that tourism benefits the local population without compromising the town’s authenticity. By staying in locally owned guesthouses, eating at family-run restaurants, and purchasing handicrafts made by local artisans, visitors to Bandipur can contribute to the town’s sustainable tourism model and help preserve its unique character for future generations.
Conclusion: Bandipur’s Timeless Appeal
Bandipur might not be as famous as some other popular tourist spots in Nepal. However, its timeless charm, rich cultural heritage, and stunning natural beauty make it a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic experience. Whether you’re drawn to the town’s history, captivated by its panoramic views, or simply looking for a place to unwind, Bandipur offers something for everyone. In this hilltop town, the past and present coexist harmoniously, creating a peaceful retreat that remains in the memory long after the journey ends.
