Bandipur, one of the hidden gems of Nepal lies at 27.5° N and 84.25° E is a Newari town that offers mesmerizing Himalayan views, antique art, architecture, and a nice stroll around hamlets.
Bandipur is the combination of traditional village architecture, epic Himalayan views, lovely countryside walks, local adventure sports, and excellent accommodation. It's also an ideal place to break up the drive between Pokhara and Kathmandu while getting a relaxing taste of rural Nepal in the process.
Elevating at 1,030m above sea level, Bandipur is situated 143 kilometers west of Kathmandu and 73 kilometers south of Pokhara. This town has around 4,000 households inhabiting around 20,000 citizenries.
It is a hilltop settlement in the Tanahun district of Nepal. Offering the panoramic views of the Himalayas, it is a place with a bloodless environment. As it lies between Kathmandu, Chitwan, and Pokhara, it is a worthwhile place to rest for a day exploring the rural settlements.
As the distance between Kathmandu and Bandipur is 143 kilometers, we can reach spending around 5 hours from Kathmandu. Every day, buses and microbuses depart for Pokhara. The buses and microbuses are available in Gongabu, Kantipath, or Jamal.
Reaching Dumre Bazaar, Kathmandu-Pokhara highway, you can catch a local bus to reach there as well. If you travel using the vehicle for Pokhara, you should get down to Dumre and catching the local one, can reach Bandipur easily. The distance from Dumre to Bandipur is only 8 kilometers.
Bandipur, a core attraction of the tourists offers several things. It is an ideal town that you can explore in your way. Strolling around the amiable alleys, visiting the temples are mesmerizing. Staying at the balcony of the coffee shops viewing the panoramic views of the Himalayas is breathtaking.
Thani Mai Temple, located at the top of the hill, is the best to watch the sunrise view. Offering the panoramic views of the giant Himalayas, Thani Mai Temple is a religious place as well. After a short walk from Bandipur, people reach there to view the first rays of sun over the giant Himalayas.
One of the historical areas of Bandipur- Khadga Devi Temple, regarded as a mother temple by the Newar community. You can see the preserved sword of the 16th century. This sword was used by the King of Palpa- Mukunda Sen.
It is believed that that sword was gifted by Lord Shiva himself. Therefore, Khadka Devi is known as the goddess of the sword. Along with the mesmerizing views of the mountains, this temple opens only on the day of Phulpati (the 7th day) of the Dashain festival.
A large ground located in the north of Bandipur Bazaar is known as Tundikhel. Beforehand, it was a place to trade where traders would gather around and bargain for goods from India and China.
At present, it has changed into a vantage point. The mesmerizing views of Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Manaslu (8,162 m), Machhapuchhare (6,997 m), Langtang (7,264 m), and Ganesh Himal (7,406 m) can be seen from this point. It is also popular for viewing the first and the last rays of the sun over the giant peaks
50 meters high and 437 meters deep, Siddha Cave is known as the largest cave in Nepal. It is popular as a hiking route. Hiking from Bimalnagar on a Prithvi Highway is a good option. On a half-day trip, we can complete this trip.
The inner part of the cave consists of spikes, and bats which create a noisy environment in the cave. You can also see a Shiva Linga there. As the path may be slippery, please be careful while walking and it is advised to carry a torch while going there.
One of the core attractions of Bandipur, Padma Library reflects the power of Bandipur during the Rana regime. This library was built by getting special permission from Ranas. Therefore, it is popular for its art and architecture. Containing the books since the Rana administration, it carries historical significance.
A trip to Bandipur offers to experience both nature and culture at once. Maximum tourist flow in Bandipur in the Spring season. In this season, the skies are clearer and the views are breathtaking. The temperature during this season ranges from 21° C to 32° C.
In the winter, the number of visitors is lower. As Bandipur experiences snowfall during winter, the atmosphere is a bit cold. But beautiful mountain views are offered in this season as well.
Bandipur, a touristic zone offers plenty of options for accommodation. These days a lot of lodges from quite basic facilities to high-quality lodges are also built up. It is your choice to choose according to your budget and necessity. If you have not pre-booked, inquiry about different hotels and only make the final decision.
So, it is not obligatory to rush choosing the hotels as there are plenty of options for the hotels there around. Heritage Guesthouse, Bandipur Adventure Camp, Bandipur Guesthouse, Mahima Hotel, Hotel Gaughar, Suraj Hotel, Greenpark Resort, Newa: Guesthouse, Bandipur Chhen, and Nepali Bhanchaghar are some of the alternatives among others regarding the accommodation in Bandipur.
Bandipur, a tourist destination offers various attractions. Thousands of tourists visit this place to forget their hectic life having the panoramic views of the Himalayas, exploring local lifestyle, culture and typical lifestyle therearound. Remaining quite near the major cities, Kathmandu and Pokhara, it has remained the best transit point as well.
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