Bandipur is a beautiful hilltop town located in the Tanahun district of Nepal, about 143 kilometers west of Kathmandu. The town is located at an altitude of 1,030 meters above sea level and is known for its pristine natural beauty, traditional Newari architecture, and friendly locals. If you are planning to visit Nepal and are looking for a peaceful and serene place to unwind and relax, then Bandipur should definitely be on your itinerary.
Getting There
To reach Bandipur, you can take a bus or hire a car from Kathmandu or Pokhara. The journey takes about 5-6 hours from Kathmandu and 3-4 hours from Pokhara. Alternatively, you can also take a local bus from Dumre, which is located on the Kathmandu-Pokhara highway, and then take a jeep to Bandipur.
Things to Do
Bandipur is a small town, and the best way to explore it is on foot. Here are some of the things that you can do in Bandipur:
Walk around the town: Bandipur is known for its well-preserved Newari architecture, and walking around the town is a great way to admire the traditional buildings and houses.
Visit the Thani Mai Temple: The Thani Mai Temple is a beautiful temple located on a hilltop overlooking the town. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Parvati and is a popular pilgrimage site for locals.
Hike to the Siddha Cave: The Siddha Cave is one of the largest caves in Nepal and is located about an hour’s hike from Bandipur. The cave is home to several species of bats and has beautiful stalactites and stalagmites.
Visit the Tundikhel viewpoint: The Tundikhel viewpoint is located on a hilltop overlooking the town and offers stunning views of the Himalayan range.
Attend a traditional Newari cultural program: Bandipur is known for its rich Newari culture, and there are several cultural programs organized by the locals, which showcase traditional music, dance, and food.
Accommodation
Bandipur has several accommodation options, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. Some of the popular hotels in Bandipur are:
Gaun Ghar Hotel: This is a traditional Newari-style hotel that offers comfortable rooms, excellent food, and stunning views of the Himalayas.
Bandipur Village Resort: This is a luxury resort that offers spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and a spa.
The Old Inn: This is a budget guesthouse located in the heart of the town, offering basic rooms and a restaurant.
Why choose Bandipur as your next Travel Destination
Choosing Bandipur as your next travel destination has several reasons that make it a great choice for travelers looking for a peaceful and serene vacation. Here are some of the reasons why you should choose Bandipur as your next travel destination:
Natural Beauty: Bandipur is located in a picturesque location, surrounded by lush green forests, rolling hills, and stunning mountain views. The town has several hiking trails that allow you to explore the natural beauty of the area.
Traditional Newari Architecture: Bandipur is known for its well-preserved Newari architecture, with many buildings and houses dating back to the 18th century. Walking around the town is a great way to admire the traditional buildings and houses.
Rich Newari Culture: Bandipur is home to a rich Newari culture, with several cultural programs organized by the locals that showcase traditional music, dance, and food. Attending one of these cultural programs is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Peaceful and Serene: Bandipur is a small town that is not yet overrun by tourists, making it a great place to unwind and relax. The town has a peaceful and serene atmosphere, and you can spend your days exploring the town or simply relaxing and enjoying the views.
Proximity to Other Tourist Destinations: Bandipur is located between Kathmandu and Pokhara, two of the most popular tourist destinations in Nepal. This makes it a great place to stop for a few days and explore the surrounding areas before continuing your journey.
Overall, Bandipur is a great choice for travelers looking for a peaceful and authentic Nepalese experience. With its natural beauty, traditional architecture, rich culture, and serene atmosphere, Bandipur is a destination that should not be missed.
Bandipur Tour: Cost and Itinerary
The cost and itinerary of a Bandipur tour can vary depending on your budget, travel style, and length of stay. Here is a general idea of what you can expect:
Cost:
Accommodation: Budget guesthouses start at around $10 per night, while luxury hotels can cost up to $100 per night.
Food: Meals at local restaurants cost around $3-$5 per person.
Activities: Hiking to the Siddha Cave costs around $2, while cultural programs can cost around $10 per person.
Transportation: A bus rides from Kathmandu to Bandipur costs around $5-$10 per person.
Overall, a budget traveler can expect to spend around $25-$30 per day in Bandipur, while a luxury traveler can spend upwards of $100 per day.
Itinerary:
Day 1:
- Arrive in Bandipur and check into your hotel.
- Walk around the town and admire the traditional Newari architecture.
- Visit the Thani Mai Temple and enjoy the stunning views of the town from the hilltop.
Day 2:
- Hike to the Siddha Cave and explore the beautiful stalactites and stalagmites.
- Visit the Tundikhel viewpoint and enjoy the panoramic views of the Himalayas.
- Attend a traditional Newari cultural program in the evening.
Day 3:
- Take a leisurely walk around the town and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
- Visit the local market and pick up some souvenirs to take back home.
- Depart Bandipur and continue your journey to Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Of course, this itinerary can be customized to fit your preferences and interests, and you can add or remove activities as per your liking. Additionally, you may want to spend more time in Bandipur to fully immerse yourself in the town’s culture and natural beauty.
Conclusion
Bandipur is a beautiful and peaceful town that offers a unique experience of traditional Nepalese culture and natural beauty. If you are looking for a quiet getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life, then Bandipur is the perfect place for you. So pack your bags and head to this charming hilltop town for an unforgettable vacation.