Expedition Overview
Bandipur is a Newari hilltop town that, because its main road was rerouted in the 1970s, was left behind by modernisation and preserved almost entirely intact. The traditional Newari merchant houses — three storeys of carved brick with intricately detailed timber windows and plaster facades — line a pedestrian-only bazaar street that has scarcely changed since the 19th century. On clear mornings, the Himalayan panorama from the Tundikhel viewpoint takes in Manaslu, Himalchuli, Baudha, and Annapurna IV — six peaks above 7000m visible simultaneously.
Professor Nasrul Eam uses Bandipur as a foundation for architectural and cultural documentary photography: the study of light on old building facades at different hours of the day, portrait photography in the context of traditional merchant interiors, and community life in a town that still operates on Newari cultural rhythms.
Expedition Itinerary
Day 1: Bandipur Bazaar at Dawn & Tundikhel Sunrise
Dawn on the Tundikhel reveals the Himalayan panorama. Back to the bazaar as the town wakes — incense at the neighbourhood shrines, vegetable sellers setting up, children walking to school.
The Goal of the Day: Panoramic mountain photography; Newari bazaar morning life.
Day 2: Newari Architecture & Siddha Cave
Deep study of the bazaar facades at different light angles. Professor Nasrul Eam deconstructs how the carved timber windows create extraordinary shadow patterns throughout the day. Evening: Siddha Cave — the largest cave in Nepal — for spelunking photography.
The Goal of the Day: Architectural shadow study; cave interior photography.
Day 3: Ghale Gaun Village Walk & Return
A half-day walk to Ghale Gaun, a Gurung village below Bandipur with traditional roundhouses and terraced fields. A cultural and landscape contrast to the Newari town above.
The Goal of the Day: Gurung vernacular architecture; village documentary in contrast to the hilltop town.
Book Your Expedition
Note: Final price may vary based on specific expedition details and customizations.
Expedition Leaders
Professor Nasrul Eam is a seasoned explorer and visual storyteller who has spent over two decades traversing Asia’s diverse landscapes and cultures. As Dean of the Department of Art and Photography at Light & Composition University, he leads immersive photography expeditions to regions like the Himalayas, Sundarbans, and Bali. These journeys blend cultural exploration with hands-on learning, culminating in a complete photography diploma. With a portfolio of over 50 publications—including The Quintessence of Photography and Illuminating Nature—his work captures the profound beauty of everyday life. His background in advertising, linguistics, and visual arts enriches his mentorship, guiding participants to uncover compelling narratives through their lenses. Professor Eam’s expeditions are transformative experiences, inspiring photographers to engage deeply with the world around them.
Travel Information
Bandipur is on the Prithvi Highway, 8km off the main road (1 hour from Pokhara, 4 hours from Kathmandu). Motor vehicles are banned from the bazaar area. Best season: October–April.
What to Bring
• Wide-angle for architecture
• 50–85mm for street portraiture
• Tripod for cave photography
• Good walking shoes for village trails
