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Trip Facts

  • Trip Start and End
    Kathmandu Kathmandu
  • Difficulty Level
    Easy
  • Trip Area
    Tanahun District, Gandaki Province
  • Maximum Altitude
    1030mm/3,379.27ft - Thani Mai Temple
  • Best Season
    September-November and March-May.
  • Meals
    Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation
    Hotels, Resorts, Homestay
  • Transportation
    Car Jeep or Bus

Highlights

A trip to Bandipur, Nepal, offers a delightful mix of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and outdoor activities. Here are some highlights to consider:

1. Bandipur Bazaar

  • Historic Charm: Stroll through the charming old town with its preserved Newari architecture, cobbled streets, and traditional wooden houses.
  • Local Shops and Cafes: Explore the quaint shops, local markets, and cozy cafes that offer a taste of local cuisine and culture.

2. Thani Mai Temple

  • Scenic Hike: Enjoy a short hike to the Thani Mai Temple, located on a hilltop. The trail offers beautiful views and a serene environment.
  • Panoramic Views: Witness breathtaking sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas and surrounding valleys.

3. Tundikhel

  • Open Ground: This large plateau serves as a communal space for various activities, offering expansive views of the mountains and valleys.
  • Picnic Spot: A great place for a picnic or a leisurely walk while enjoying the scenery.

4. Siddha Cave

  • Exploration Adventure: Visit one of Nepal’s largest caves, located about an hour’s walk from Bandipur. The cave features impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and rock formations.
  • Guided Tours: Local guides are available to help navigate the cave’s complex pathways and share its geological history.

5. Bindhyabasini Temple

  • Religious Site: This Hindu temple is dedicated to the goddess Bindhyabasini. It is a place of worship and cultural significance.
  • Cultural Insight: Observe local religious practices and rituals, gaining insight into the spiritual life of the community.

6. Mountain Views

  • Himalayan Panorama: Bandipur offers stunning views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Langtang ranges.
  • Photography: The clear skies and majestic peaks provide excellent opportunities for photography.

7. Silk Farm

  • Local Industry: Visit the Bandipur Silk Farm to learn about sericulture (silk farming) and the traditional methods of silk production.
  • Shopping: Purchase locally made silk products as souvenirs.

8. Local Culture and Festivals

  • Traditional Newari Culture: Experience the rich cultural heritage of the Newar people, including their architecture, food, and festivals.
  • Festivals: Time your visit to coincide with local festivals like Dashain, Tihar, or Maghe Sankranti to witness vibrant celebrations.

9. Paragliding

  • Adventure Sport: For thrill-seekers, Bandipur offers paragliding experiences, providing an aerial view of the stunning landscape.

10. Nature Walks and Hikes

  • Scenic Trails: Explore the various nature trails around Bandipur, offering peaceful walks through forests and fields with opportunities for bird watching and encountering local wildlife.

Trip Overview

Bandipur, a picturesque hilltop town in Nepal, is renowned for its well-preserved Newari architecture, rich cultural heritage, and stunning natural beauty. Located midway between Kathmandu and Pokhara, Bandipur offers panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The town is characterized by its traditional houses, cobblestone streets, and vibrant local markets. Visitors can explore historic sites like the Bindhyabasini Temple and the vast Siddha Gufa (cave), while enjoying activities such as hiking, bird watching, and paragliding. Known for its serene environment and cultural vibrancy, Bandipur is a hidden gem that provides a peaceful retreat away from the bustling cities.

Detailed Itinerary for a 3-Day Trip to Bandipur, Nepal

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Morning: Depart from Kathmandu or Pokhara early in the morning. Arrive in Bandipur by noon. Check into your hotel or guesthouse. Freshen up and rest for a bit.
Afternoon: Have lunch at a local restaurant or your hotel. Stroll through the historic Bandipur Bazaar, taking in the well-preserved Newari architecture and quaint cobblestone streets. Visit local shops and cafes.
Evening: Hike up to Thani Mai Temple to catch the sunset. The short but steep hike offers rewarding panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Newari cuisine.
Overnight stay in a hotel.

Morning: Sunrise at Tundikhel: Wake up early and head to Tundikhel for a stunning sunrise view over the Himalayas. Enjoy the serene morning atmosphere. Return to your hotel for breakfast.
Visit Siddha Cave: Embark on a hike or take a local vehicle to Siddha Cave, one of Nepal’s largest caves. Explore the cave with a local guide to see impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
Afternoon: Have a picnic lunch or return to Bandipur for a meal.
Silk Farm Visit: Visit the Bandipur Silk Farm to learn about sericulture and the traditional methods of silk production. Purchase local silk products if you wish.
Evening: Visit Bindhyabasini Temple to experience local religious practices and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Cultural Walk: Take a leisurely walk through the village, interacting with locals and experiencing the traditional lifestyle.
Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a different local restaurant or your hotel.
Overnight: Stay at hotel

Morning: Have breakfast at your hotel.
Choose between a peaceful nature walk through surrounding trails or an adventurous paragliding experience to get an aerial view of Bandipur.
Late Morning: Visit the local market to shop for souvenirs and local handicrafts.
Lunch: Have lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the last flavors of Bandipur.
Afternoon: Check out from your hotel and prepare for your departure. Travel back to Kathmandu or Pokhara, depending on your onward plans.

Cost Includes

  • Airport pick up and drop off
  • All the surface transportation as per the itinerary buy tourist bus
  • Accommodation in kathmandu on bed and breakfast basis.
  • An experience guide salary / accommodations / insurance
  • All the meals during Bandipur Village tour (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner )
  • Required entry permit fees and government taxes

Cost Excludes

  • Personal expenses such as alcoholic beverages, Laundry, Souvenir, bottle of water etc.
  • All optional additional tours or activities during free time
  • Transportation outside of the tour program
  • Monument entrance fees while on sightseeing.
  • Meals in Kathmandu (Lunch & Dinner)
  • Your travel insurance
  • Tips to the field staff
  • Any other personal and non personal expenses which are not included in our cost inclusive section.

FAQs

The best time to visit Bandipur is during the autumn months (September to November) and spring months (March to May) when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear.

You can reach Bandipur by road from Kathmandu or Pokhara. It’s about a 4-5 hour drive from Kathmandu and a 2-3 hour drive from Pokhara. Alternatively, you can take a bus or hire a private vehicle.

Bandipur offers a range of accommodation options including guesthouses, boutique hotels, and resorts. You can choose from budget to mid-range accommodations depending on your preference.

Some of the must-visit attractions in Bandipur include the Bandipur Bazaar, Tundikhel (open ground), Siddha Cave, Bindyabasini Temple, and hiking trails around the town offering stunning views of the Himalayas.

Yes, there are several trekking routes around Bandipur, including the Bandipur-Adheri-Ghalegaun trek, which offers a glimpse into the traditional culture and lifestyle of the local communities.

Pack according to the season you’re visiting. Comfortable walking shoes, light clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera are essential. If you’re trekking, pack appropriate trekking gear and layers for varying temperatures.

Yes, Bandipur is generally considered safe for tourists. However, it’s always a good idea to take standard precautions regarding your belongings and personal safety, especially when traveling alone or at night.

Bandipur celebrates various cultural festivals throughout the year, including Dashain, Tihar, and Maghe Sankranti. These festivals offer a unique opportunity to experience the local culture and traditions.

Yes, Bandipur is a pedestrian-friendly town with narrow cobblestone streets, making it perfect for exploring on foot. Walking around allows you to soak in the charm of the town and interact with locals.

Yes, Bandipur has several restaurants and cafes offering both local and international cuisine. Don’t miss trying Newari delicacies and enjoying traditional Nepali meals during your visit.