Bandipur, a small hill settlement in the Gandaki region in Nepal, offers a European vibe and exceptional views. Bandipur is Nepal’s best-kept secret where time has frozen— preserving the culture, the charm of 18th-century architecture, and nature’s offerings. 

Isolated on a hilltop at about 1030 meters, Bandipur is truly a hidden gem in Nepal. Bandipur had developed as a significant stop in the India-Tibet trade route in the 19th century. The Newars improved the trade scenario and also introduced their own culture there. A walk through the main street of Bandipur, with traditional row houses on both sides, multiple shades of bougainvilleas springing down the wooden balconies, and sacred shrines, will make you feel no less than a time traveller.

Apart from the architectural and cultural heritage, the little town of Bandipur also offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna Range, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Lang Tang. Along with the picturesque Himalayas, the town overlooks the spectacular view of the Marsyangdi River valley. With no tinge of modernization, Bandipur is definitely the place where you can experience community life and Newari culture or can make a stop to relax after a trek in Nepal.

Bandipur is a true example of an offbeat travel destination coupled with culture, heritage, and history.

Bylanes of Bandipur

How To Reach Bandipur?

Bandipur is located midway between Kathmandu and Pokhara, the distance being 140 km and 75 km from Kathmandu and Pokhara, respectively. From either place, it would take half a day or a bit less to reach Bandipur. There are primarily two options to reach Bandipur. Private vehicles are easily available from both Kathmandu and Pokhara, which directly drop you off at the entry point of Bandipur as vehicles are not allowed on the main street. For a budget traveller, public transport is a saviour. Buses could be availed from Kathmandu or Pokhara, which drop you off at Dumre. From Dumre, it is a short ride to reach Bandipur, which can be easily covered in a reserved taxi, public bus, or shared jeep, the second and third options comparatively being the cheaper ones. Bandipur happens to be a great place to break up the journey between Kathmandu and Pokhara and deserves to be on your itinerary for the reasons already mentioned above.

Best Time To Visit Bandipur

The spring months from March to mid-May is an ideal time to visit Bandipur when the skies are clear and the Himalayan ranges are perfectly visible. After the second week of May, the temperate starts to rise, and it is not too favourable to hike for longer hours. Monsoons should be highly avoided as the condition of the roads may worsen. In winter, the number of visitors is lower than in spring due to the extreme cold and occasional snowfall, but it has a different charm altogether if you are comfortable travelling in cold weather.

Layers of the Himalayan range as viewed from Bandipur on a clear day

Things To Do In Bandipur

(1) Explore the town: A leisurely walk through the main street of Bandipur is the first thing that everyone would be tempted to take. There are several shops, restaurants, cafes, temples, and shrines spread across the town that you must explore. Walking into the by-lanes, you will always find something eventful taking place, be it a group of kids playing or a religious ceremony being conducted. Dedicating a whole day to only exploring the town isn’t a bad idea.

The main street in Bandipur, full of old-world charm

(2) Visit Siddha Cave: Measuring about 437 meters in depth, Siddha Gufa or Siddha Cave is the largest cave in Nepal. It takes about half a day’s downward hike to reach this place from Bandipur. The cave is quite dark and full of sections covered with water and stalactite structures that hiring a guide is a must; a guide would ensure safe exploration inside the cave. 

Insides of the Siddha cave

(3) Take Village Hikes: Bandipur is indeed a perfect getaway that you can only dream of until you arrive there. A hike up to Thani Mai Temple viewpoint is not to be missed as it offers unparalleled panoramic views of the Himalayas. Walk up to the Martyrs Memorial Park or Tundikhel Ridge to witness a gorgeous sunset. Apart from the few spots that have gained popularity as viewpoints, any random trail in the village will lead you to beautiful ends where you can sit back and soak the vibe of the scenic Himalayas.

A view from Tundikhel

(4) Walk to the age-old temples in Bandipur: Khadga Devi Temple is a short walk up stone stairs where the venerated sword of the 16th-century king, Mukunda Sen, is kept. The sword is believed to be a gift from Shiva as a symbol of Shakti and is taken out for public display once a year during the Dasain festival. Bindebasini Temple, full of intricate wall carvings and dedicated to the Hindu goddess Durga, the guardian deity of Bandipur, is yet another important place of worship in Bandipur where you may want to spend some time to witness the religious practices of the locals.

Khadga Devi Temple in Bandipur

(5) Seek peace at Bandipur Monastery: The only monastery in Bandipur, known as Boudha Sadan Shakyamuni Gompa or more commonly Bandipur Monastery, is not a place that can be typically included under things to do, yet it deserves a separate mention. For people who like to explore a place at a leisurely pace and absorb the vibe and culture, a visit to this monastery would definitely be an enriching experience. The resident monk is ever ready to exchange dialogues with the visitors and narrate tales about how he built the monastery after visiting several monasteries spread over Nepal and India. There is definitely a lot to learn and take back.

Bandipur is a place that is not yet discovered by the mass but is gaining popularity among international travellers and as an alternative rest stop to Pokhara for trekkers.  After spending some time in the busy counterparts of Kathmandu and Pokhara, a visit to Bandipur would be a rejuvenating and relaxing experience. From minimal designs and simple huts in the outskirts to the well-preserved Newari architecture in the central part of the Town, Bandipur is a place with character and charm that will inspire you for the good, making you want to come back again. So do not leave room for regret and take the road less travelled!