The Old Inn
Bandipur
On a quiet square in the heart of peaceful Bandipur, the Old Inn offers homely accommodation, traditional charm and the chance to slow down the pace at the foot of the Himalayas. Housed in two restored Newari townhouses, complete with shuttered windows and walls covered in tumbling flowers, this relaxed guesthouse has a down-to-earth atmosphere that instantly makes you feel welcome. While it may not be the right choice for everyone, and there are no fancy additional features, it offers the chance to take proper time out from the usual trail.
Being a heritage property, the rooms are compact and individual, with low ceilings and exposed beams - remember to duck! We would suggest staying in the Extra Star wing, which boasts modern ensuite facilities (bells and whistles not included). The ground floor in this part of the hotel has a separate lounge and dining area with copper-hooded fireplace for curling up in the evenings.
Location
Situated in the charming town of Bandipur, the Old Inn is the ideal halfway point to relax between Kathmandu (up to 5 hours’ drive) and Pokhara ( a 2-3 hour drive).
A little more detail
Terrace with mountain views
Cosy courtyard & roof garden
Hot water bottles in winter
No TV or WiFi in rooms
From a client…
It was a comfy base for spending a few days enjoying Bandipur’s warm atmosphere and sleepy pace.
Image gallery
Why we love it
Discover what to expect from staying at The Old Inn
Unparalleled views
There may not be a TV in your room, but the best entertainment is framed through the window. Spend hours admiring the views and taking in the atmosphere - entertainment you won’t find on any screen.
Restored Newari architecture
It’s one thing to visit Nepal and take in the local culture, visiting nearby temples and villages, it’s a whole other thing to stay in a restored Newari townhouse that exudes such complex character and history. As you navigate your way through the Inn you’ll see carefully selected, traditional artwork hanging on the walls, original narrow staircases and low ceilings: refreshing reminders of the heritage it represents.
What can you do there?
Just outside the door is a pedestrianised bazaar where you can find a spot in the shade and soak up some traffic-free serenity. To the rear are raised terraces and an open courtyard leading to steeply descending gardens. The Up on the Roof terrace is another hidden treasure: somewhere to sip a cool drink with spectacular views towards the Himalayan Annapurna peaks. This characterful hotel is full of quiet corners which allow for moments of calm reflection. Find your favourite cosy nooks to sit and appreciate the tranquillity.
Community Tourism
The Old Inn is committed to responsible tourism and sustainable practices which they describe as ‘Tourism in the Community and the Community in Tourism’. Employing local artisans for the restoration of this beautiful old building has helped the local economy. Once built, staffing for the Inn provided further employment opportunities. This has all been the perfect recipe for a thriving mountain town in Nepal and the Inn continues to work towards even better community-centred operations.
