Bandipur Rural Municipality has launched promotional and publicity campaigns to ensure the success of Bandipur Visit Year 2025. The campaign aims to promote tourism and boost the local economy through tourism activities.
Chairperson of the rural municipality, Surendra Thapa, stated that discussions have been held in Kathmandu with various organizations and prominent personalities to seek support for the success of the initiative. A team led by Chairperson Thapa, including Vice-Chair Panchamaya Gurung, Tourism Branch Chief Suraj Bhattarai, Coordinator of Bandipur Visit Year 2025 Vaish Gurung, and Raju Baniya, visited Kathmandu to conduct interactions and promotional activities.
The team requested collaboration from stakeholders while promoting Bandipur among representatives of various institutions and organizations. Thapa emphasized that several tourism promotional events will be organized throughout the year to make Bandipur a popular destination both domestically and internationally. He mentioned that major cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan, and Lumbini will be targeted for promotional campaigns.
Highlighting tourism as a key source of income for uplifting locals’ livelihoods, Chairperson Thapa urged collective efforts for the campaign’s success. He added, “Special programs reflecting Bandipur’s ancient heritage will be organized to enhance its charm as a preserved and historic town.”
Thapa shared plans to sustainably develop all six wards of Bandipur as prominent tourism hubs in Gandaki Province, following Pokhara. He revealed plans to conduct feasibility studies for adventure activities like paragliding and ziplining. Furthermore, the municipality intends to expand outdoor gyms and enhance natural rock formations to attract visitors.
Additionally, the municipality aims to preserve and promote traditional landmarks such as Chautaras (resting places), Thatis (public shelters), and gardens. Projects such as the construction of the 25 Pokhari Lake Park will commence this fiscal year. Feasibility studies will also begin for developing large water bodies at Jhapri Phat and Devi Thumka.
To facilitate international visitors, the municipality has prepared informational materials in nine languages: Nepali, Chinese, English, French, German, Hindi, Spanish, Sinhala, and Thai. Chairperson Thapa noted that these materials will provide tourists with comprehensive details about Bandipur’s attractions.
Key destinations identified by the municipality include Khadgadevi Temple, Thanimai Temple, Mahalaxmi Temple, Siddha Cave, Manimukunda Sen Trekking Trail (Mini Great Wall), Tindhara (Three Water Spouts), waterfalls, fountains, Tudikhel, Manimukunda Sen Palace, and Padma Library.
Kisan Pradhan, Chairperson of the Bandipur Tourism Development Committee, shared that Bandipur attracts tourists from countries like Japan, China, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, France, the USA, Germany, Denmark, Pakistan, Australia, the UK, Ireland, South Korea, Belgium, Thailand, Taiwan, Switzerland, Malaysia, Portugal, the Czech Republic, Iran, India, Greece, and Argentina.
Bandipur’s key attractions include its Bhaktapur-style houses, Tudikhel, Thanimai Temple, Tindhara, Raniban, Ramkot, Sunkhari, Khadgadevi Temple, Bindhyabasini Temple, Mahalaxmi Temple, and the information center. These sites offer a unique cultural and natural experience to visitors.
Located just 18 kilometers from Dumre via an 8-kilometer uphill route, Bandipur is renowned for its stunning views of the Himalayan ranges, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes. Visitors can witness panoramic views of the Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri ranges, making Bandipur a favorite among international tourists, according to Committee Chairperson Pradhan.