Bandipur-Keshavtar Homestay Circuit being developed in three phases

By Amar Raj Naharki

Tanahun, Apr. 10: The development of the “Bandipur–Keshavtar Homestay Circuit” has been advanced by integrating Bandipur, a popular tourist destination in Tanahun, with the Keshavtar area of Byas Municipality.

A detailed action plan has been prepared to complete this campaign launched as a joint initiative of two local governments—in three phases within two fiscal years.

Byas Municipality Mayor Baikuntha Neupane said that this collaboration between the two municipalities has brought new enthusiasm to rural tourism.

Mayor Neupane said, “This circuit will prove to be a milestone in connecting tourists visiting Bandipur to Keshavtar in Byas–14 and the surrounding traditional villages.”

He further added, “We are committed to making this a model homestay circuit in the country by developing infrastructure and promoting it through inter-municipal coordination.”

He expressed confidence that the campaign would directly contribute to income generation in rural areas and promote local products.According to Surendra Thapa, Chairman of Bandipur Rural Municipality, the circuit—approximately 50 kilometres in length covers 20 villages, including 13 community homestays. To ensure systematic development, public awareness programmes and mapping will be carried out in the first phase. The second phase will focus on building tourism infrastructure and developing human resources, while the third phase aims to market and operate tourism activities at the national and international levels.

A two-day introductory tour was recently conducted to promote the circuit.

Former Chairman of the Bandipur Tourism Development Committee, Bais Bahadur Gurung, said that the circuit connects the rich cultural heritage of the Gurung, Magar, Newar, and Chhetri communities along a single route.

The circuit will offer opportunities to view mountain ranges from Dhaulagiri to Langtang, as well as to directly participate in traditional farming practices.

Considered a gateway to Bandipur and Damauli, the circuit is also expected to become a new destination for researchers interested in exploring and studying ancient palaces and forts.

Tourism worker Hari Singh Gurung said that this innovative effort, which also includes a well-organized cycling lane for mountain biking enthusiasts, will help connect Tanahun’s rural tourism to the international level.