Bandipur Old Town
A charming hilltop town in Nepal, renowned for its preserved Newari architecture and stunning Himalayan views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies for mountain views
Bandipur Old Town
Best Time
Clear skies for mountain views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming hilltop town in Nepal, renowned for its preserved Newari architecture and stunning Himalayan views.
"Bandipur: the hilltop town everyone skips (but shouldn’t)."
🚶♀️ Wander the Pedestrian Streets
Bandipur's old town is car-free! Enjoy leisurely strolls and soak in the atmosphere.
☕ Enjoy a Cup of Chiya
Relax with a warm cup of tea and enjoy the views, especially on a rainy evening.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bandipur Old Town
Central Bandipur
Step back in time in this beautifully preserved Newari town with charming streets and traditional architecture.
Himalayan Viewpoints
Various viewpoints around Bandipur
On clear days, witness breathtaking panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan mountain range.
Tundikhel
Central Bandipur
A historic parade ground offering expansive views and a central gathering spot for locals and visitors.
Ramkot Village
Short hike from Bandipur
Experience rural life and enjoy unique rock houses in this charming nearby village.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Old-World Charm
Views and Vistas Await
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wander the Pedestrian Streets
Bandipur's old town is car-free! Enjoy leisurely strolls and soak in the atmosphere.
☕ Enjoy a Cup of Chiya
Relax with a warm cup of tea and enjoy the views, especially on a rainy evening.
⛰️ Hike to Viewpoints
Trek to viewpoints for stunning panoramas of the Himalayas and the town.
📸 Drone Shots Welcome
Capture breathtaking aerial views of Bandipur and its surroundings.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wander the Pedestrian Streets
Bandipur's old town is car-free! Enjoy leisurely strolls and soak in the atmosphere.
☕ Enjoy a Cup of Chiya
Relax with a warm cup of tea and enjoy the views, especially on a rainy evening.
⛰️ Hike to Viewpoints
Trek to viewpoints for stunning panoramas of the Himalayas and the town.
📸 Drone Shots Welcome
Capture breathtaking aerial views of Bandipur and its surroundings.
🏠 Stay in Traditional Homes
Experience local hospitality by staying in charming, restored Newari guesthouses.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bandipur is praised for its beautifully preserved Newari architecture and tranquil, pedestrian-only Old Town, offering a peaceful escape. Visitors love the potential for stunning Himalayan views and the authentic cultural experience. However, the mountain vistas are often obscured by clouds, which can be a disappointment for some.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Bandipur from Kathmandu is by bus. Buses typically take around 5-7 hours. You can also hire a private taxi for a more comfortable journey.
Yes, Bandipur is conveniently located between Kathmandu and Pokhara. Buses heading to Pokhara often stop at Dumre, from where you can take a local jeep or taxi up to Bandipur.
Many travelers opt for a bus as it's the most economical. However, for convenience and to enjoy the scenic drive, consider a private car or taxi, especially if you're traveling with family or luggage.
While direct buses to Bandipur are less common, you can catch buses from major cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara to Dumre, which is the closest major town. From Dumre, local transport is readily available to ascend to Bandipur.
The journey from Dumre to Bandipur takes about 30-45 minutes by local jeep or taxi. The road is winding but offers glimpses of the surrounding valleys.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is generally no entrance fee to wander through Bandipur Old Town itself. However, some specific attractions or viewpoints might have nominal charges.
Bandipur is an open town, so there are no specific opening or closing hours for the town itself. Shops and restaurants typically operate from morning until evening.
It's advisable to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred guesthouse or hotel.
No special permits are required for general tourism in Bandipur. It's a peaceful town accessible to all visitors.
Yes, Bandipur can be visited as a day trip from nearby cities like Pokhara or even as a stopover between Kathmandu and Pokhara. However, staying overnight allows for a more immersive experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the charming Old Town, hike to viewpoints for Himalayan vistas, visit local temples, and experience the peaceful Newari culture.
Absolutely! Bandipur offers incredible opportunities for photography with its traditional architecture, colorful streets, and stunning mountain views on clear days.
Yes, you can hike to nearby viewpoints like Tundikhel and Ramkot village. The 'Great Wall of Bandipur' is also a popular trail.
The best way is on foot! Wander through the pedestrian-only streets of the Old Town to truly appreciate its charm and architecture.
Bandipur is often recommended for couples due to its romantic ambiance, peaceful atmosphere, and beautiful views.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Don't miss trying delicious momos and other Nepali dishes at local eateries. Enjoying a cup of chiya (tea) is also a must.
Bandipur has a good selection of restaurants and cafes, mostly concentrated in the Old Town area, offering local and some international cuisine.
Yes, most restaurants in Bandipur offer vegetarian options, including dal bhat, momos, and vegetable curries.
Restaurants generally serve meals from breakfast through dinner. It's best to check with individual establishments for their specific operating hours.
You can find budget-friendly meals, especially at local eateries serving staples like dal bhat and momos.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire Old Town is a photographer's dream! Also, seek out viewpoints for panoramic shots of the Himalayas and the town.
Drone photography is popular in Bandipur, offering stunning aerial perspectives of the town and its surroundings.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer beautiful light for photography. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly magical if the skies are clear.
Yes, Bandipur is renowned for its well-preserved traditional Newari architecture, making it a prime subject for photographers.
While dedicated photography tours might be limited, you can hire a local guide who can help you find the best photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack comfortable walking shoes for everyone, and be prepared for the possibility of cloudy weather which might obscure the Himalayan views. However, the charm of the old architecture and the relaxed pace of life can still captivate young minds. Enjoying local snacks like momos together can also be a fun culinary adventure for the family.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
💑 Couples
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Bandipur's Old Town
The architecture itself tells stories of Bandipur's past as a prosperous trading post. You'll notice the distinct Newari style, which originated from the Kathmandu Valley, reflecting a rich cultural heritage. The absence of modern concrete structures allows the historical ambiance to truly shine, making it a delight for photographers and history enthusiasts alike.
Exploring the Old Town is best done on foot, allowing you to discover hidden courtyards, small temples, and local life unfolding at a relaxed pace. It’s a place where you can simply stroll, observe, and absorb the tranquility, making it a refreshing escape from the usual tourist hustle.
Capturing Himalayan Panoramas
Several viewpoints around Bandipur provide excellent opportunities to capture these panoramic scenes. Tundikhel, a historic open space, offers expansive views, and short hikes to nearby hills can lead to even more secluded and stunning perspectives. The 'Great Wall of Bandipur' is another popular trail that promises rewarding views. For photographers, the interplay of light and shadow on the snow-capped peaks, especially during sunrise and sunset, can create truly magical moments.
Even if the mountains remain hidden behind clouds, the surrounding valleys and lush green hills offer their own serene beauty. Many visitors find joy in simply enjoying the expansive landscape, and the anticipation of a clear view adds an element of excitement to the Bandipur experience. Drone videography has also become popular here, showcasing the town nestled amidst the hills and the vastness of the potential Himalayan backdrop.
Experiencing Local Life and Culture
Many of the traditional houses in the Old Town have been converted into cozy homestays and guesthouses, providing an authentic cultural experience. Staying in these establishments allows you to interact with local families, learn about their traditions, and savor home-cooked Nepali meals. The town also features several Hindu temples, adding to its spiritual ambiance and offering insights into local religious practices.
Beyond the Old Town, a hike to nearby villages like Ramkot offers a glimpse into rural Nepali life. Here, you might encounter unique rock houses and experience a more rustic way of living. The overall atmosphere of Bandipur encourages a sense of peace and connection, making it a place where visitors can truly unwind and appreciate the simple joys of local culture.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit