The construction of the Mukundeshwari Trail in the tourist city of Bandipur has gained momentum, aiming to extend tourists’ stay in the area. The trail, promoted as a “Mini Great Wall,” starts from Thanimai Temple in Bandipur Municipality-2 and is designed to end at Chuli Danda. According to Municipality Chairperson Surendra Thapa, plans include extending the trail up to Mukundeshwari Fort.
“Bandipur is an attractive destination for both domestic and international tourists. With this new trail, we aim to enhance tourism and encourage visitors to stay longer,” stated Thapa. Currently, construction efforts include building retaining walls, and stairways, and embedding slate stones on either side of the trail’s walls. Thapa noted that while the project faced some delays, progress has accelerated following the municipality’s recent push.
The trail spans a distance of two kilometers, with around 80 percent of the work completed. The municipality has earmarked an estimated budget of NPR 190 million for further infrastructure developments per its master plan. Proposed additions include Thanamai Temple, gardens, selfie spots, paragliding zones, a nine-meter-high Bandipur sign, horseback riding facilities, Pushpalal Memorial Park, and Mukundeshwari Park.
Inspired by the iconic Great Wall, the trail’s wall—dubbed “Mukundeshwari Wall”—is expected to bolster Bandipur’s tourism industry. This site holds historical significance as it was once ruled by King Mukunda Sen. The wall will be three meters wide to accommodate visitors.
Chairperson of the Bandipur Tourism Development Committee, Kisan Pradhan, emphasized that extending tourists’ stay would not only boost the local tourism sector but also raise local income levels. Statistics show that more than 100,000 tourists visit Bandipur each year, with a mix of visitors from Japan, China, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, France, the United States, Germany, Denmark, Pakistan, Australia, the United Kingdom, Ireland, South Korea, Belgium, Thailand, Taiwan, Switzerland, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Portugal, the Czech Republic, Iran, India, Greece, and Argentina.
Bandipur’s attractions include Bhaktapur-style houses, Tudikhel, Thanamai, Teen Dhara, Raniban, Ramkot, Sunkhari, Khaddevi Temple, Bindhyabasini Temple, Mahalaxmi Temple, and an information center. Located just 18 kilometers from the district headquarters of Damauli, Bandipur is accessible via a scenic eight-kilometer uphill drive from Dumre. Known for its natural beauty and panoramic views of the Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, Bandipur captivates the hearts of all who visit.
Source: RSS
