Bandipur
Here is also where our own journey begins. It's largely thanks to us that Bandipur is now firmly on the "tourist map", although many still by-pass it as it requires a detour. So, Bandipur is thankfully not overrun either and retains its authenticity.
When the ancient trade routes passed through Bandipur, this Newari mountain town originally flourished. Then came roads, and Bandipur fell on hard times as the main highways took a different route.
However, Bandipur is where we "set up shop" in the form of The Old Inn, with the intention of sustainable economic regeneration for Bandipur and as part of what became our Support Rural Nepal initiative.
Bandipur is now beginning to thrive once again, as more and more tourists discover its charms.
This small, attractive, characterful hill town affords breathtaking views across to the Annapurnas and Manaslu and although Bandipur is far from a 'one street town', its attractive main street is pleasantly pedestrians only and has a very relaxed atmosphere altogether. There's even a chilled out cafe bar, the "Ke Garne", owned and operated by us! The architecture of Bandipur is principally Newari and thankfully well preserved too. The town is quite spread out as it occupies a saddle between the hills of the Mahabarat range.
A fantastic day walk from Bandipur is up to the remote hill village of Ramkot. As well as great views and moderate walking up through a pleasant landscape, the Magar village of Ramkot is one of the last places in Nepal where the traditional thatched roof round house still exists. A walk down to the Siddha Cave is also interesting, even if you do have to walk back up to Bandipur again! It's the largest cave system in Nepal, and is claimed to be the second largest in South Asia.
See our hand-picked Bandipur Accommodation for suggestions as to where to stay.
Read our Nepal Travel Guide
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