It takes three full days to do a satisfying tour of Bandipur and its environs. Below, we propose an itinerary, which will allow you to take in the main attractions at a moderately challenging pace.

Day 1:

Begin the day with a visit to the Khadga Devi Temple, the most sacred and auspicious temple in Bandipur. Then head up to the Martyrs Memorial Area, which honors seven Bandipur sons who were killed during the anti-Rana insurrection of 1951. Then head down to the shrine of Paarpani Mahadev (Shiva), who receives appeals for rain from Bandipurays during dry spells. Return to the bazaar along the main trail, and visit the two other important temples of Bandipur: Bindebashini and Mahalaxmi. Bindebashini is the pagoda-roofed temple that houses goddess Durga, the guardian deity of Bandipur. The rich wooden carving and detailed brass-work that adorn the temple are replicas of those found in the many old pagoda structures of the Kathmandu valley. It displays Newari craftsmanship. The temple has rich wood carving on its struts and windows. The lintels and toranas have detailed brass work. During Nepali New year, which falls in the mid-April, the people of Bandipur celebrate Bisket Jatra which is similar to the Bisket Jatra of Bhaktapur. It is said that people of Bandipur, especially the Newars, migrated from Bhaktapur and still have close ties with the people of Bhaktapur. After lunch you may want to visit the Silk Farm, which is less than half an hour’s walk towards the west. The staff there will give you and interesting tour-and-talk on the history and method of silk-harvesting in the Nepali hills. A quick descent to the bazaar will bring you to a unique and typical Newari town. The compact houses are built with bricks having tin or slate roofs. This is an impressive town with beautiful temples and palaces. Stroll the narrow lanes beneath traditional Newari wooden houses or sit in one of the many patis / pauwas (platform) and become part of an authentic Nepali experience. Bandipur offers mountain views and artistic houses and temples. After afternoon tea and snacks, you may want to visit Tin Dhara, where water spouts provide cool water famous among Bandipurays near and far for bathing. If you have enough time, be sure to visit slate quarries which provide roofing material for the region. Stay overnight at the hotel.

DAY 2:

Begin your second day early by witnessing a magnificent sunrise over the Himalayas from your private balcony. After breakfast, head for the hilltop shrine of Mukundeshwori, where the 16th century King Mukunda Sen of Palpa had maintained his hideout. This site is an hour and a half away. The shrine here is festooned with numerous bells and tridents and it is especially revered by Gurungs. You will see some knives and swords, apparently placed here by victorious warriors long ago. While heading towards Mukundeswari, you will pass through Gurunche Hill where there is a small shrine as well as the Thani Than Temple and a chautara / rest platform. From there you can enjoy the bird eye view of the Bandipur area and the Himalayas that fills the horizon. If you have not had enough of caves and caverns, head for the Siddha Gufa, which is an hour and a half away. The trail goes through different vegetation, shrubs and jungle. Discovered only a few years ago, this cave is said to be the largest in Nepal. Go equipped with lamps so that you can study the stalactite stalagmite structures in the cave, which also has a sizeable bat population. It is said that this cavern has not been fully explored, which provides you that extra little bit of excitement as you head in. Stay overnight at the hotel.

DAY 3:

You are at leisure until you drive back to your onward destination. Until then, relax and enjoy the scenic landscapes.