Bandipur is a hilltop settlement and a municipality in Tanahun District, of Nepal. It is 143km west of Kathmandu and 80km east of Pokhara. It is a trading route between India and Tibet. It is famous for its Newari people and their culture. Today its population is about 10,000 native Newars. It is one of the best and famous tourist destinations of Nepal. The history of Bandipur begins in the 19th century when the Newars from Bhaktapur arrived. Before that it was mostly inhabited by the Magars. Now, Bandipur is home to many ethnic groups like Brahmins, Chhetries, Newars, Damais, Kamis, Sarkis, Magars, Gurungs and Kasais. After Prithvi Narayan Shah defeated Kathmandu valley, the Newar merchants chose Bandipur as a trade route between northern hills and southern flatland. The merchants built their houses in such a way that the houses reflected their style, architecture and culture. Thus, the houses consist of pagoda styled roofs, lattice windows and ornate doorways.