An ornate, brass-colored binding with engraved floral patterns and clasps shaped like turtles, displayed on a dark surface next to a coin for scale.

Bagh bandi

ByMichail

History and Background

Bagh bandi originated in Nepal and has been played for centuries. It is a two-player abstract strategy game.The name “Bagh bandi” means “tiger game” or “tiger capture” in Nepali.It is especially popular among the Newar people of Nepal. The game has spread to other countries like India and Thailand over time.

Components

Board
– Typically a 5×5 square grid. Can be carved into wood, made of cloth, or drawn on paper.Pieces
– Usually there are 20 pieces in total. Each player has 4 tigers and 4 goats. The tigers and goats are typically distinguished by color.

Setup

The board is empty to start.The players sit on opposite sides. Each places their 4 tigers on their corner spaces of the board. The goats are placed on the tiger’s immediate left or right side spaces.

Gameplay Mechanics

Players take turns moving a tiger or goat piece.Tigers can move one space in any direction, but not diagonally.Goats can move one space diagonally in any direction.If a tiger jumps over a goat, the goat is captured.Goats cannot capture tigers.

Objective

To capture all of the opponent’s goats.

Experience

Bagh bandi is a fast-paced and strategic game. It requires planning and foresight to trap the opponent’s goats.There is often exciting back-and-forth gameplay as players capture each other’s pieces. The game has a focus on tactics over chance.

Variations

Different board sizes like 6×6 or 8x8Additional special tiger pieces with extended move abilitiesRule variations on tiger jumping and goat capturing

Buy Online

Sets can be purchased on sites like Amazon or specialty board game shops. Prices range from $20-$60.

What is the Difference Between Bagh Bandi and Bagha-Chall?

Bagh Bandi and Bagha-Chall are two variations of the ancient board game baghachall. The main difference between the two lies in the setup and movement of the pieces. Bagh Bandi is played on a cross-shaped board with 20 pieces, while Bagha-Chall is played on a square board with 24 pieces.

Related Games

Alquerque, checkers/draughtsIn conclusion, Bagh bandi is a classic animal-themed abstract strategy game that offers a fun and strategic experience for two players. Its long history in Nepal and simple components make it an engaging traditional game.

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Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl