Bungmati Travel Guide

Check out our comprehensive Bungmati travel guide and discover the best things to do, places to visit, and more! Plan your trip now and explore this beautiful destination in Nepal.


Introduction to Bungmati

Bungmati is a small, charming town located in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal. This ancient town is known for its rich history, traditional art and culture, and scenic beauty. Bungmati is surrounded by lush greenery, and its cobbled streets and old houses take you back in time. This town has preserved and maintained its ancestral heritage and traditional lifestyle, making it an ideal destination for cultural immersion.

List of Places to Visit in Bungmati

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Karyabinayak Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesh, and is believed to have been constructed over 500 years ago. The temple’s architecture consists of intricate wood carvings and is revered by locals and visitors alike.
  • Rudrayani Temple: This ancient temple is dedicated to Goddess Rudrayani and is believed to be over a thousand years old. The temple has a unique architecture, and the intricate wood carvings will leave you in awe.
  • Siddhi Binayak Temple: This temple is one of the most popular temples in Bungmati, and is dedicated to Lord Ganesh. It is believed that the idol of Lord Ganesh in the temple has the power to grant wishes.

Natural Attractions of Bungmati: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Champa Devi Hike: If you are an adventure lover, then the Champa Devi Hike is an absolute must-do. The hike takes you to the top of the Champa Devi mountain and offers a stunning panoramic view of the Kathmandu Valley.
  • Bungamati River: The Bungamati River flows through the town, and you can enjoy a peaceful stroll along its banks. You can also try fishing or simply soak in the natural beauty of the river.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bungmati

If you want to explore the area around Bungmati, then hiking and biking are the best options. Some of the popular routes include the Champa Devi Hike and the Helambu Trek.

Best Things to Do in Bungmati: Activities and Tours

  • Traditional Art Workshop: Bungmati is a hub for traditional art forms like wood carving, pottery, and weaving. You can take part in a traditional art workshop where you can learn the techniques and create your own masterpiece.
  • Cycling Tour: Take a cycling tour of the town and explore its hidden corners and lanes. You can see the daily life of locals and enjoy the stunning countryside scenery.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bungmati

Day Activity
1 Visit Karyabinayak Temple and enjoy a traditional Nepali meal
2 hike to Champa Devi Mountain and enjoy the panoramic view
3 Visit Rudrayani Temple and explore local pottery and weaving
4 cycling tour of the town and surrounding villages
5 Visit Sindhuli Gadhi, an important historical site close to Bungmati
6 Spend a day fishing and relaxing by the Bungamati River
7 Attend a traditional dance performance and enjoy a farewell dinner

Food and Drink Scene of Bungmati

Must-Try Dishes

  • Momos: A traditional Nepalese dish that consists of steamed or fried dumplings with vegetable or meat stuffing.
  • Newari Khaja Set: A typical Newari meal that includes a range of dishes like beaten rice, black lentils, spicy potatoes, and meat curry.
  • Kwati: A soup made from a mixture of nine different kinds of beans and is typically served during the festival of Janai Purnima.

Local Beverages

  • Tongba: A millet-based alcoholic beverage that is served hot and usually consumed during the winter season.
  • Raksi: A distilled alcoholic drink made from millet, wheat, or apples and has a high alcohol content.

Where to Stay in Bungmati: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bungmati has a range of accommodation options for all budgets. Some of the popular options include Himalayan Guest House, Bungmati Riverview Resort, and Serenity Guest House.

What to Buy in Bungmati: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Wooden Items: Bungmati is known for its intricate wood carvings, and you can buy wooden masks, statues, and traditional windows as souvenirs.
  • Pottery: You can find a range of traditional pottery like water jugs, vases, and plates in Bungmati.

Local Culture and Customs of Bungmati

Bungmati is a traditional Nepalese town, and it is essential to respect its customs and traditions. The locals are warm and welcoming, and it’s important to dress modestly and behave appropriately.

Best Time to Visit Bungmati

The best time to visit Bungmati is from September to November and from March to May. The weather during these months is pleasant, and you can enjoy the outdoor activities to the fullest.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bungmati

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and dress modestly.
  • Try the traditional Nepalese cuisine.
  • Explore the town and its surroundings on foot.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the religious places and monuments.
  • Litter the streets or the countryside.
  • Engage in illegal activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bungmati

Bungmati is a safe town, and the locals are friendly and helpful. It’s important to take care of your belongings and avoid going out alone at night.

Health in Bungmati

It’s essential to stay hydrated and carry a first aid kit with you. It’s also a good idea to check with your healthcare provider about any necessary vaccinations before your trip to Nepal.

Getting to Bungmati: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bungmati

The nearest airport to Bungmati is Tribhuvan International Airport, which is located in Kathmandu.

Bus Stations Near Bungmati

You can take a bus from Kathmandu to Bungmati. The bus ride takes around 1 hour.

Other Options

You can take a taxi or hire a private car from Kathmandu to Bungmati.

How to Get Around in Bungmati

Bungmati is a small town, and you can explore it on foot. You can also hire a bicycle or a motorcycle to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Bungmati: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Patan: A nearby town known for its traditional Newari architecture and art and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Sindhuligadhi: An ancient fort and historical site that played a significant role in the unification of Nepal by King Prithvi Narayan Shah.
  • Namo Buddha: A sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site that is located on a hilltop and offers a stunning view of the Himalayas.

Conclusion

Bungmati is a hidden gem in Nepal that is waiting to be explored. This charming town has everything from rich history and cultural heritage to stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventures. Plan your trip to Bungmati now and experience the true essence of Nepal.