Although it was initially a pastoral Magar village, the present-day Bandipur is settled by an assortment of Nepali ethnicities such as Bahuns, Chettris, Newars, Magars, and Gurungs, to name a few.[break]
Bandipur is also considered as the living museum of Newar culture since more than 70 percent of the buildings are traditional Newar-style houses with carved wooden windows and overhanging slate roofs.
From the Langtang Peak in the east to Dhaulagiri in the west, you’ll get to see breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges from Bandipur.
Also from the nearby hilltops, one can see as far as Manakamana Temple and Gorkha Durbar to the east to the great Chitwan plains to the south in the Tarai.
Getting there
Bandipur is situated midway between Kathmandu and Pokhara. It is 143 kilometers west of the capital city of Kathmandu and just 80 kilometers east of the beautiful lake city of Pokhara. Since 1998, it’s been connected by an 8km access road out of the dusty village of Dumre on the Kathmandu-Pokhara highway.
You can easily find public buses or microbuses which will get you there. Since a public bus may be a bit crowded, you can hire a private vehicle if you don’t want to take all the hassles. Tourist buses are also very comfortable.
When you reach Bandipur, you’ll notice the place is an interesting tourist destination and that there are a handful of lodging options that are perfect for a brief getaway.
Weekend highlights
Besides the breathtaking views of the Nepal Himalaya, Bandipur is also a great place for hiking. You can take a stroll and witness the centuries-old buildings and temples.
One of the main highlights of the place is the Siddha Cave which is 18 feet wide and 50 feet high, and situated in the north of Bandipur. After entering this cave, you’ll notice huge and dark sub-trails, gorges and holes created by waterfalls.
Another holy cave is Patali Dwar which is famously known as the Gateway to Heaven.
You’ll also get views of pine and sal forests along with lush terraced fields and spectacular views of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu and Lantang as well as the Marsyangdi Valley. If you take a short hike, you’ll see the surrounding Magar villages which are totally untouched by modern civilization.
Other attractions in the vicinity include the Bindyabasini Temple, the library at the village centre, Thani Mai, Tin Dhara (“Three Taps”) – the community water fountain at the southeastern outskirts – and Rani Ban (Queen’s Forest).
Besides these, and if you’re into adventure sports, Bandipur is also great for rock climbing and cycling.
Weekend essentials
The place is quite chilly as compared to the Kathmandu Valley and you may feel cold wind blowing, especially during the evening and night. So it’s advisable to pack warmer clothes, shrugs, shawls or a jacket to protect you from the cool breeze.
Also don’t forget to pack your walking shoes and gears as you’ll have to tread through steep paths which will be difficult without proper shoes. You should pack umbrellas as well in order to shield yourself from the scorching heat as you take a stroll admiring the beautiful landscapes and surrounding villages.
Weather
The weather isn’t very different from Kathmandu. But since it’s located at a height, it’s a bit cold. Summer has reached its peak in Kathmandu where you have to face the sweltering heat, which is why Bandipur will be a perfect getaway from not only the noise and pollution of the city but also its hot and humid weather as well.
Deals
One night’s/two days’, or two nights’/three days’ packages are available for Rs 4,000, plus taxes and above.
For further details, contact www.nepaltourstravel.co
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