Bandipur's tourism surges with Cable Car launch

TANAHU SEPTEMBER 11 : The tourist town of Bandipur in Tanahun has seen a significant rise in activity following the commencement of cable car services. The Bandipur Cable Car, which began commercial operations on June 14, has attracted an increasing number of visitors eager to experience this new attraction.

Ram Chandra Sharma, Chairman of Bandipur Cable Car & Tourism Limited, explained that the cable car was launched to promote tourism in Bandipur and the broader Tanahun district. He stated, "In the first phase, we have introduced the cable car, zipline, and cycling services, all of which currently offer a 60% discount." Sharma also noted the encouraging response from domestic tourists in just three months of operation.

Surendra Thapa, Chairman of Bandipur Rural Municipality, hailed the cable car as a significant milestone in boosting Bandipur’s tourism sector. "The addition of new tourist infrastructure in Bandipur, which is already well-known both domestically and internationally, is a positive step. It will undoubtedly help unlock the area's tourism potential, linking it to greater economic opportunities," he commented.

Kiran Kumar Pokharel, CEO of the company, highlighted that the cable car service has been launched after receiving the TÜV international certification for technology and safety standards. He also mentioned that promotional efforts are now underway to further raise awareness of the service.

The cable car provides access to the renowned Khadga Devi Temple, which previously only opened for nine days during the Navaratri festival. With the new services, the temple is now accessible daily, making it more convenient for religious tourists.

Operating from 6 AM to 11 PM, the cable car has a capacity to transport 500 passengers per hour. The company also plans to introduce six cabin restaurants and lounge areas that will be open from 5 PM to 11 PM.

In addition to the cable car, other attractions such as a jungle museum, a children's zone, and a park featuring statues of 33 crore deities have already been completed. According to Chairman Sharma, out of the total planned investment of NPR 6.29 billion, NPR 4.33 billion worth of work has already been finished. The remaining infrastructure, part of the Bandipur Hill Master Plan, is expected to be completed within the next two years.

Furthermore, the construction of a 17-story, five-star hotel named Queen Tower is in progress and is expected to be operational within five months. Additional upcoming projects include a skywalk, an 85-meter cantilever glass walkway, the world’s tallest bungee jump at 293 meters, a 2,800-meter zipline in the shape of the number seven, and a chairlift cable car connecting Bandipur to Siddha Cave. These are all slated for completion within the next two years, according to company officials.