Adventure · Bandipur
Explore Siddha Cave below Bandipur
Walk down from Bandipur to Siddha Gufa, one of Nepal's largest caves, about 437 m deep and 50 m high, and explore its chambers of stalactites and flowstone by torchlight with a local guide, then climb back up or continue to Bimalnagar on the highway.
Siddha Cave lies on the hillside between Bandipur and Bimalnagar on the Prithvi Highway. From Bandipur a steep stone path drops through forest in about an hour; from Bimalnagar it is a stiff climb of similar length. Local guides wait at the entrance with lamps, and a guide is strongly recommended.
Inside, the cave opens into large chambers. It extends about 437 m deep and is about 50 m high in places, big enough that, by one estimate, it could hold around 2,500 people. Stalactites, stalagmites and flowstone formations catch the torchlight, and bats roost in the ceilings. Parts are slippery and require scrambling over rocks.
Wear old clothes and shoes with good grip, carry a strong torch even if the guide has a lamp, and do not touch formations, which take thousands of years to grow. After the cave, either climb back to Bandipur or walk down to Bimalnagar and have your driver collect you there.
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Questions
How big is Siddha Cave in Bandipur?
Siddha Cave, or Siddha Gufa, extends about 437 m deep and reaches about 50 m high, with an inner area large enough by one estimate to hold around 2,500 people. It is often called one of the largest caves in Nepal. Visiting the main chambers takes about an hour inside with a guide.
How do you get to Siddha Cave?
Walk down from Bandipur on a steep stone path, about an hour, or climb up from Bimalnagar on the Prithvi Highway, also about an hour. Many visitors walk down from Bandipur and are collected by their driver at Bimalnagar. Local guides with lamps are available at the cave entrance for a fee.
Is Siddha Cave safe for children?
With a guide, good shoes and close supervision, older children usually enjoy it. Some sections are slippery and need scrambling, and it is dark inside, so it is less suitable for small children or anyone with mobility issues. Carry torches, avoid going after heavy rain and follow the guide's route.
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