Bandipur village in Nepal

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Bandipur

One of Nepal's most charming towns, Bandipur is a living museum of Newari culture, a beautifully preserved village crowning a lofty ridge, its main street lined with traditional row houses. Time seems to have stood still here, although it has taken a lot of effort to preserve this magic while developing the town as a destination. Derelict buildings have been reborn as cafes and lodges, and temples and civic buildings have been pulled back from the edge of ruin. With its attractive 18th-century architecture, pedestrian zone and outdoor dining, it has a distinctly European feel.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

  • Views of the Himalayas at dawn from The Thani Mai Temple Viewpoint in Bandipur.

    Thani Mai Temple Viewpoint

    Bandipur

    The main reason to climb up to Thani Mai is for the spectacular sunrise views from Gurungche Hill. A clear morning offers some of the most memorable 360…

  • Siddha Gufa Cave

    Siddha Gufa Cave

    Bandipur

    At 437m deep and 50m high, Siddha Gufa is said to be the largest cave in Nepal. Its cathedral-like interior is full of stalactites and stalagmites, not to…

  • Tundikhel

    Tundikhel

    Bandipur

    In centuries past, traders would gather on this man-made plateau to haggle for goods from India and Tibet before starting the long trek to Lhasa or the…

  • Bindebasini Temple

    Bindebasini Temple

    Bandipur

    At the northeast end of the bazaar (which is the main shopping strip) this ornate, two-tiered temple is dedicated to Durga. Its ancient walls are covered…

  • Khadga Devi Temple

    Khadga Devi Temple

    Bandipur

    A wide flight of stone steps leads up the hillside to this barn-like temple, which enshrines the sword of Mukunda Sen, the 16th-century king of Palpa …

  • Silkworm Farm

    Silkworm Farm

    Bandipur

    An offbeat choice, a visit to Silkworm Farm takes you through the fascinating process of how silk is produced. The farm comprises orchards of mulberry…

  • Padma Library

    Padma Library

    Bandipur

    There's a random collection of beaten-up books here, including a few English ones, but this small library is better known for its striking 18th-century…

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