Mountain Views:
 The hillocks that surround Bandipur provides an unequalled panoramic view of the Himalayan ramparts to the north. In contrast to close-ups available to the hardy trekker, the perspective offered by Bandipur's step-back view has its own advantages.
The observer is able to take in a 300 km march of the Himalayan chain, and it is actually possible to see the curvature of the earth on the snowline of this parabola. For to the east, the range known as Jugal actually stands directly to the north of Bhaktapur in Kathmandu Valley, the place of origin of Bandipur's Newars. Westwards, the main ranges that are on view include Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Gorkha Himal (which is the closest, and include Manasulu, Himalchuli and Baudha peaks), the Annapurnas Dhaulagiri and Kanjiriba. Tudikhel: The most convenient place for a mountain view is Tudikhel, the field at the northern end of town. This unique flat-top, right by a precipitous cliff which falls away towards the Marsyangdi valley far below, must have been originally developed as a military parade ground. It is now used for political rallies and by Bandipur's youth for football and volleyball. The field is also used as a promenade, populated as it is by stately trees. Caves: Bandipur's hillsides are also well known for their caves, which carry religious significance for the locals. A two-hour hike through forest leads to the Pataali Dwar, or the Gateway to Hell, with a Shiva shrine at its deepest recess. The limestone formations are also revered.
Alternatively, the cave is also known as Swargadwari, or Entrance to Heaven! Another cave, discovered only a few years ago, is known as the Siddha Gufa and is said to be the largest discovered cavern in the country. Full of stalactites and stalagmites, it has not been fully explored. The Gadhi: Northeast of Bandipur, on a hilltop, stands a fort said to have been established by Mukunda Sen. The fort's trenches are still visible. The view of the Himalaya from this high point is fully worth the hour's hike getting here. Also visible is the eastward bend of the Marsyangdi river far below. One can also follow the river's course northward as it disappears into the Manang region between the Annapurna and Manasulu massifs. Beyond, of course, lies Tibet. Mukundeswari: An important tribal 'power place' is that of Mukundeswari, atop a high summit at the end of a two-hour walk from Bandipur. The shrine here is festooned with numerous bells and tridents (trisuls), and it is especially revered by Gurungs. You will see some knives and swords, apparently placed here by victorious warriors of long ago. |
