UNFOLDING OF AN ADVENTURE

In a bid to explore a different side of Bandipur, Moin Uddin visits Bandipur Adventure Camp

The drive to Bandipur Adventure Camp (BAC) in Bandipur, Tanahun is a delight. To make the trip even more memorable, Utsav Sapkota, Managing Director of BAC himself picked us up from Babar Mahal.

Located on top of a cliff and just 10- minute uphill hike from the bazaar, the camp lies on a historical fort made by King Mukunda Sen around 300 years ago. The camp offers an amazing view of the spectacular landscape of the

valley and surrounding villages.

Rustic Rooms

At BAC seven safari tents and 15 dome tents make up for accommodation. The safari tents accommodate six people. These are immobile, well ventilated and spacious. The dome tent accommodates two people and is portable.

Delicious food

The restaurant is a quick walk from the tents and boasts of gorgeous views of the Bandipur valley. Everything served from breakfast, lunch to dinner is equally scrumptious.

Activities to enjoy

Located just 10 minutes’ away from BAC, there are a host of activities that you can enjoy at Bandipur. One must visit the colourful Old Bandipur Market. An array of shops, restaurants and hotels welcomes you once you reach the bazaar.

Paragliding

Sapkota arranged a tandem flight for me but due to the strong breeze my flight was cancelled. However, the next day after patiently waiting for almost four hours, I got the green signal from Damien Bergier, the FFVL paragliding instructor for Blue Sky Paragliding, Nepal to fly above the hills of Bandipur. I suggest you bring good shoes and a windproof jacket and don’t forget to feed yourself before takeoff.

Major Attractions

Teen Dhara

It’s said to be the oldest water source of Bandipur originating from the forest. This water source has been vital for the locals.

Tundikhel

It’s a huge ground situated at the top of a hill in Bandipur. It’s one of the major viewpoints and picnic spots for visitors. You can get the best view of the Himalayan range from this site.

Siddha cave

Siddha cave from the BAC is an hour’s hike away. This cave offers a surreal experience and is filled with natural artwork created by the stone pillars and stanchions. There are three major spots for cave rappelling each around 15, 20 and 45 metres.

Make it possible

What: Bandipur Adventure Camp

Where: Mukunda Sen Gadi, Bandipur, Tanahun

Contact: 9818712232 / 9841235636

How to get there: Head to Dumre Bazar, Tanahun, 142 kilometers west of Kathmandu or 69 kilometres east of Pokhara. BAC is 20 minutes away from the bazaar.

Best time to visit: February to Mid-May/ Mid-September to January

Price details: Rs 1,800 for Nepalis and USD 25 for foreigners for one night/day (exclusive of taxes). The package includes bed and breakfast (welcome drink, chicken BBQ, veg/non- veg dinner and breakfast).

Verdict

There are so many things to fall in love with at BAC. The spectacular lush green site and the stunning view of the Himalayan range is just a start. The wonderful staffs not only raise the bar in terms of service but also make your stay worth every penny, giving you memories to last a lifetime.

A version of this article appears in print on March 17, 2016 of The Himalayan Times.