The launch of the cable car in the picturesque town of Bandipur has significantly increased activity and visitor interest. Since its commercial operation began on May 15, 2024, the cable car has become a popular attraction, drawing a surge of tourists.
Ramchandra Sharma, Chairman of Bandipur Cable Car and Tourism Limited, explained that the cable car was introduced to promote tourism in Bandipur and the broader Tanahun district. “The first phase includes the cable car, zipline, and cycling services, all of which currently offer a 60 percent discount. The excitement among domestic tourists over the past three months has been very encouraging,” Sharma noted.
Surendra Thapa, Chairman of Bandipur Rural Municipality, stated that the cable car is a significant milestone for boosting tourism in Bandipur. “Adding new tourism infrastructure to the already renowned Bandipur is a positive development. It will definitely help link the area’s tourism potential with economic activities and benefits,” Thapa said.
Kiran Kumar Pokhrel, the company’s CEO, highlighted that the cable car has been certified with international technology and safety standards (TÜV certification) and is now undergoing promotional activities.
The cable car offers visitors views of the famous Khadga Devi Temple, which was previously open only during the nine days of Navaratri. Now, the temple is accessible daily, making it easier for religious tourists to visit.
The cable car system can accommodate 500 passengers per hour and operates from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. The company plans to introduce six retro cabins for restaurants and lounges from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Other attractions at the site include a jungle museum, a children’s zone, and an attractive park with statues of 33 crore deities. Out of a total project cost of NPR 6.29 billion, NPR 4.33 billion worth of work has already been completed, according to Chairman Sharma. The entire Bandipur Hill master plan aims to be completed within two years.
Additionally, the company is working on a 17-story luxury hotel named the Queen Tower, expected to open within the next five months. Future developments include a sky walk, an 85-meter-long cantilever glass walk-through, a 293-meter-high bungee jump, a 2,800-meter-long zipline in the shape of a seven, and a chair lift cable car from Bandipur to Siddha Cave.
