Bandipur: A Charming Hilltop Town in Nepal
Bandipur is a charming hilltop town located in the Gandaki Province of Nepal. It is situated at an altitude of 1,030 meters (3,380 feet) on a ridge overlooking the Marsyangdi River Valley. Bandipur is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture.
History:
Bandipur was originally a Magar village, but it was later settled by Newar traders from Kathmandu. The town was a major trading center during the 17th and 18th centuries, and it was a stop on the ancient trade route between India and Tibet.
In 1768, Bandipur was conquered by Prithvi Narayan Shah, the founder of the Gorkha Kingdom. Shah incorporated Bandipur into his kingdom and made it a strategic military outpost.
Bandipur remained an important town during the Rana period (1846-1951). The Ranas built several palaces and temples in Bandipur, and they made it a summer resort for the royal family.
After the overthrow of the Ranas in 1951, Bandipur began to decline. The town’s importance as a trading center and military outpost diminished, and its population began to shrink.
In recent years, Bandipur has undergone a revival. The town has been restored, and it is now a popular tourist destination.
Sights:
Bandipur is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is known for its well-preserved Newari architecture. The town’s main street is lined with traditional Newari houses, many of which are decorated with intricate wood carvings and paintings.
Bandipur also has a number of temples and palaces, including:
Chhatra Narayan Temple: This temple is dedicated to Vishnu, the Hindu god of preservation. It is one of the oldest temples in Bandipur, and it is known for its beautiful architecture.
Shree Muktinath Temple: This temple is dedicated to Vishnu. It is located on a hilltop overlooking the town, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Rana Durbar: This palace was built by the Ranas in the 19th century. It is now a museum that houses a collection of artifacts from the Rana period.
Things to Do:
In addition to its historical and cultural attractions, Bandipur also offers a variety of activities for visitors, including:
Hiking: There are a number of hiking trails in the area, offering stunning views of the Himalayas.
Trekking: Bandipur is a popular starting point for the Annapurna Circuit trek.
Birdwatching: Bandipur is a great place to birdwatch, with over 250 species of birds found in the area.
Visiting local villages: Bandipur is surrounded by traditional Newari villages. Visitors can visit these villages to learn about the local culture and way of life.
Planning Your Visit:
Bandipur is open to visitors year-round. The best time to visit is during the spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) when the weather is pleasant.
Here are some additional details to help you plan your visit to Bandipur:
Location: Bandipur is located in the Gandaki Province of Nepal, about 80 kilometers east of Kathmandu Valley.
Getting there: Bandipur is easily accessible from Kathmandu by bus or jeep. The drive takes about 2 hours.
Accommodation: There are a number of hotels, resorts, and lodges available in Bandipur.
Permits: No permits are required to visit Bandipur.
Conclusion:
Bandipur is a charming and historic town that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or simply relaxing in a beautiful setting, Bandipur is the perfect place to visit.
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