Bandipur

Bandipur is in Tanahu District of Nepal which is 143 west of Kathmandu and 80km east of Pokhara. It is like a living museum of Newari culture. Bandipur is also called as a national treasure. More than 70% building at Bandipur are traditional Newari houses with carved wooden windows and overhanging slate roofs. According the history, Bandipur was a part of Magar (ethnic group of Nepal) Kingdom of Tanahun, but Newari traders took the place of Magars after it had been conquered in 1768 by Prithvi Narayan Shah.

Bandipur has preserved its medieval ambiance and glorious 18th century architecture. You can spend your time watching around Magars villages. Though, Bandipur is formerly a Magar village but still you can see Bahuns, Chettris, Newars, Damais, Kamis, Sarkis, Kasais and Gurungs.

Places to see:

Siddha Gufa - The largest cave in Nepal.

Tundikhel – Ancient parade ground near the village hospital. You can have a breath taking view of the Himalayas. There are five big fig trees according to Nepali mythology are different Hindu gods, Vishnu, Brahma and Hanuman.

Martys Memorial – A stone pillar which was placed in the memory of the local men who died fighting the Ranas in the political disorder that followed Indian Independence.

Baralthok – Magar settlement with splendid brick shop houses.

Rani Ban (Queen’s Forest) – It is a peaceful area of public woodland.

Bindebasini Mandir - It is the most interesting temple in town, which is dedicated to Durga. It is covered with ancient carvings.

Library – Facing the temple, there is a library. It is 18th century building which has carved windows and beams.

Mahalaxmi Mandir – Centuries old Newari style temple.

Khadga Devi Temple – It is a shelter like building with the holy sword of Mukunda Sen who was the king of Palpa, Nepal during 16th century. The sword was a gift from Shiva. Once in a year, during Dashain, the sword is marched to the main bazaar and anoint with the blood of a sacrificial sheep.

Notre Dame School – This school was established by Catholic nuns from Japan in 1985.

Balabazaar – Old shop houses which is mostly in use by Newari cloth merchants.

Tin Dhara (Three Spouts) - Clean, cool spring water emerges from beneath the Rani Ban Forest which is in shape of mythical beasts. There are also some small temples from where you can sit and enjoy the life of village people at Bandipur.

Bandipur Silk Farm – It is 30 minutes easy walk. You can have a look around a farm, though the staff of this farm donot speak English but they will be happy to show you around.

You can easily reach Bandipur by the local transport which runs from Dumre and it will cost you only Nrs. 20 per person or reserve a jeep for Nrs. 300 from Dumre to Bandipur.