Skip to main content

Bandipur, an Absolute Gem

Bandipur is a hilltop settlement and a municipality in Tanahun District, of Nepal. It is 143km west of Kathmandu and 80km east of Pokhara. It is a trading route between India and Tibet. It is famous for its Newari people and their culture. Today its population is about 10,000 native Newars. It is one of the best and famous tourist destinations of Nepal. The history of Bandipur begins in the 19th century when the Newars from Bhaktapur arrived. Before that it was mostly inhabited by the Magars. Now, Bandipur is home to many ethnic groups like Brahmins, Chhetries, Newars, Damais, Kamis, Sarkis, Magars, Gurungs and Kasais. After Prithvi Narayan Shah defeated Kathmandu valley, the Newar merchants chose Bandipur as a trade route between northern hills and southern flatland. The merchants built their houses in such a way that the houses reflected their style, architecture and culture. Thus, the houses consist of pagoda styled roofs, lattice windows and ornate doorways.

Bandipur, famous hill station in Nepal

Bandipur is an aesthetically beautiful and quiet town. Its cultural heritage and architecture hasn’t been changed till now. From Bandipur, we can get excellent views of some Himalayas like Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh, Langtang, etc. The Newari town of Bandipur is one of central Nepal’s hidden gems. It combines traditional village architecture, beautiful Himalayan views, countryside walks, local adventure sports and some excellent accommodations. Bandipur has also retained its old temples, shrines, sacred caves, innumerable festivals and its Newari architecture.

Bandipur’s cultural and historical site attracts large number of tourists every year.

Some of the must visit places in Bandipur are:

Siddha cave, largest cave in Nepal

Siddha Cave

The Siddha Cave is the largest cave of Nepal. The cave is 50 meters high and 437 meters deep. The Siddha Cave is famous as a hiking route among the visitors. Inside the cave, there is a Shiva Linga, Lord Ganesh face structure and a swimming pool.

Khadga Devi Temple, Bandipur

Khadga Devi Temple

Khadga Devi Temple is one of the historic places in Bandipur especially for the Shrestha of Newar community. In this temple, a sword of the 16th century king, Mukunda Sen is preserved. It is believed that the sword was gifted to the king by Lord Shiva. The temple demonstrates woman power where Khadga Devi means the goddess of sword. The temple is located at high altitude and also provides a fantastic view of the mountains and the beautiful Bandipur village. This temple opens only on the day of Fulpati of Dashain festival.

Padma Library

The Padma Library is at the center of Bandipur Bazaar. It reflects the power of Bandipur during the Rana time. The library contains books from the time of Rana administration. It is famous for its architecture and design.

Tundikhel

There is a large ground on the north of Bandipur Bazaar named as Tundikhel. Once this area was known for trading and parade ground for Gorkha soldiers. But now it is a viewpoint from where we can get the enthralling views of surrounding mountain ranges, we can see Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhare, Ganesh Himal and Langtang ranges. This place is also famous as a spot to view the sunrise and sunset.

Bindabasini Temple, Bandipur

Bindabasini Temple

It is located in the northern part of Bandipur Bazaar. The main attraction of the temple is its walls adorned with mythic scriptures and beautiful architectural styles. It is built in pagoda style. The people keep the picture of the goddess Bindabasini in a chariot and pull the chariot during the celebration of New Year.

Silkworm Farm

In silkworm farm there is a silk production factory that demonstrates the detailed process of manufacturing silk from the silkworm. At the farm, there are many orchards of mulberry plants which are used to feed the silkworm.

Thani Mai Temple

Thani Mai Temple is a famous religious spot of Bandipur on a hilltop. This place is also a best viewpoint for sunrise and sunset views. It offers breathtaking view of the mountains and the village downhill for the visitors.

Bandipur dotted with numerous mountain ranges, viewpoints, and greenery valley offer many things to do. From trekking to hiking and many other things can be enjoyed here. Different viewpoints of Bandipur attracts tourists with mesmerizing views of the Himalayan ranges and panoramic views of Bandipur from high altitudes.

The best time to explore the beautiful Bandipur is from January to April and from October to December.

Similar blogs

Luxury Reimagined: The Durbar Deluxe Experience

Luxury Reimagined: The Durbar Deluxe Experience

Top 3 festivals in Kathmandu valley

Top 3 festivals in Kathmandu valley

Mardi Himal Trek

Mardi Himal Trek

View all