Smriti Adhikari
On the 28th of December, 2024, our group of 20 embarked on 2-day adventure to Bandipur , a calm peaceful hilltop town surrounded by dense forests offering beautiful himalayan views and a tranquil atmosphere.The trip aimed both leisure and exploration and also to connect with the nature ,strengthen the bond between us.
On the first day, we began early as we assembled at DWIT College and after the comprehensive overview, we boarded the bus and departed at 5.45am, ready for the long trail ahead. We kept ourselves refreshed with simple snacks and ride was filled with energy and laughter as we engaged in singing, dancing and some spontaneous fun. We stopped for lunch at 11 AM at Mugling and after taking a short break and refueling ourselves, we set off to reach our hike destination.The hike began at 12.30 PM where it took us through breathtaking views of lush hills, lawn ,dense forest, and small villages, where the group took the initiative to clean up the trail by picking up litter scattered along the way.
By the time we reached Bandipur in the evening, we were welcomed by charming and beautiful town with its soft, golden light, known for its traditional Newari architecture and peaceful ambiance.After checking into a Garangja hotel at 4:55 PM and taking a brief rest, we browsed through the lively local market, its colorful stalls, which showcased the town’s vibrant culture and rich heritage, local crafts and chatted with friendly vendors. As the day came to a close, we gathered for a hearty dinner, followed by a memorable bonfire and BBQ under the starry sky with some chitchats, storytelling and laughter.
The second day began early at 6.00am. As we woke up with a morning run to catch the spectacular sunrise over the Himalayan ranges, roamed the town. People who were not tired from yesterday's strenuous hike went for a trail run of about 5 km while the rest took a leisurely walk, soaking in the morning tranquility. After a cozy breakfast, we spent some time roaming the narrow cobblestone streets, buying some goods and packing up our essentials. By the midday, we had the cultural Bandipur lunch set .By 11:50 PM, we boarded the bus for the return trip. The return journey to Kathmandu was reflected on the memories of our trip and the adventures we'd shared. We arrived back at DWIT College by 6:00 PM, bringing our adventure to a close.
This trip reaffirmed the importance of teamwork and the profound connection between people and nature, unforgettable experience filled with adventure, relaxation and deepened our appreciation for Nepal's natural and cultural heritage. From the scenic hike to the vibrant market exploration and the fun games around the bonfire, every moment offered something special and made the trip truly memorable
