Hidden amid the vast expanse of lush green hills is Bandipur. The small town of Bandipur is the perfect embodiment of Newari settlements in Nepal. Unlike others, the small town’s beauty is due to the traditional architecture of the houses in the city that have been preserved to this day. The rarity of modern houses and settlements and the rich cultural presence in this place is what make Bandipur one of the best places to visit in Nepal.
Bandipur lies just 143km west of Kathmandu and is located a diversion away from the road that connects Kathmandu and Pokhara. Thus, it is the perfect place to take a night’s rest while traveling from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
The history of Bandipur suggests that it once used to be one of the essential stops in Tibet’s trade route. Few of the traditional shops remained from when it was the trade route in Bandipur. Most of the houses’ architecture dates back to the 18th century, making it a museum of a kind that depicts the lifestyle of the people in the 18th century in perfection.
Bandipur was formerly a Magar village, but as times have passed, several other settlers have now made Bandipur their home, which includes Brahmins, Chhetri, Newar, and Gurungs, and so on.
What makes the experience even more wholesome is the warm and welcoming attitude of the residents, which is not different from people’s attitudes back in the 18th century. The traditional houses are adorned with a variety of flowers, making the sight pleasing to the eye. The junctures and streets are also riddled with several small and large temples, increasing Bandipur’s cultural significance.
Bandipur is a place for relaxation and rejuvenation of energy. Away from the bustling city of Kathmandu, it is the best place to enjoy strolls at your own pace while taking in the spectacular mountain sights and the clear air. Guests can enjoy warm local tea in the local tea house or a cup of coffee with a book in a hand in the local bakeries. The local bakeries are a touch of the modern era in the otherwise traditional town.
On top of the culture is the breath-taking view of mountain ranges accompanied by a range of wide green hills. A small trek to the Martyrs memorial park or the nearby Tudhikhel (park) introduces the enthralling bird-eye view of Kathmandu valley along with a myriad of other settlements along the way. There is also the option of a 30-minute walk to the viewpoint of Tani Mai Temple from where one can see the panoramic sight of stunning mountain ranges.
There are also options for biking or hiking adventures in Bandipur. The most famous is the hiking trail to Siddha Gufa, which is the largest cave in Nepal. Chanting can be heard continuously from deep within the cave, which is home to a resident Sadhu. From the cave, the view of mountain vistas and the rushing Marsayangdi River becomes even clearer. The whole hike to the cave and the feeling of tranquillity once you reach the cave is nothing but refreshing. There is also a Launchpad just above the town from where travellers can enjoy paragliding.
Other famous attractions in Bandipur village include the Bindabasini Temple, Tindhara, Raniban, etc. Raniban, which translates to the queen’s forest, is notorious for being one of Nepal’s most haunted places.
Bandipur’s quiet and isolated environment is what makes it one of the best travel destinations in Nepal.
