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Gorkha Durbar: Exploring History, Culture, and Natural Beauty

Embarking on a tour of the historic Gorkha Durbar in Nepal unveils the essence of this captivating country. This journey takes you through the heart of Nepalese civilization, where rich history intertwines with breathtaking landscapes, diverse topography, and a unique cultural tapestry. Let’s delve into the details:

Table of Contents

History of Gorkha Durbar:

Perched atop a hill at an elevation of approximately 1,450 meters (4,760 ft), the Gorkha Palace stands as a magnificent testament to history. Constructed in the 16th century by Ram Shah , this iconic palace resides in the Gorkha district of Nepal. A mere one-hour walk from the bustling Gorkha bazaar, it offers a captivating journey through time.

Gorkha Durbar holds great significance as the ancestral home of King Prithvi Narayan Shah , the visionary leader who unified Nepal into a single nation. This historic site serves as a testament to the country’s unification process, offering a glimpse into Nepal’s past and the legacy of its brave Gurkha warriors.

Getting to Gorkha:

To reach Gorkha, you can conveniently opt for a bus journey, which allows you to soak in the scenic beauty along the way. The journey itself becomes a part of the experience as you traverse through picturesque landscapes and immerse yourself in the charm of the region.

Things to See in Gorkha Durbar:

Apart from the iconic Gorkha Durbar and Gorkha museums, this district offers a treasure trove of attractions. Marvel at the glorious Himalayan range, which provides a majestic backdrop to Gorkha. The varied topography, encompassing lush hills and valleys, creates an enchanting setting for exploration. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture, witnessing the traditions, festivals, and warm hospitality that make Gorkha so captivating.

Gorkha Durbar Nepal: A Majestic Palace, Fort, and Temple

Gorkha Durbar Nepal, constructed in the 16th century, stands as a remarkable testament to Newari architecture. More than just a palace, it embodies the essence of a fort and a temple. This revered site holds immense historical significance as the birthplace of the founder of Nepal.

Within the vicinity, you will find the Kalika Temple , a stunning architectural marvel dating back to the 17th century. Adorned with intricate woodcraft depicting demons, peacocks, and serpents, this temple showcases exceptional craftsmanship. The east wing of the complex houses Dhuni Pati, a palace complex, along with a Royal guest house and a grand Hanuman statue.

It is unfortunate that the palace suffered extensive damage during the devastating earthquake in 2015. During my visit in December 2018, reconstruction efforts were underway, signifying the dedication to restoring its former glory.

Please note that while visiting the Durbar, it is important to adhere to certain guidelines. Leather items such as belts and shoes are not permitted on the premises. This measure is taken to preserve and respect the cultural and religious significance of the site.

Despite the ongoing restoration, the Gorkha Durbar Nepal remains a captivating destination, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of its past and the resilience of its heritage.

Gorkha Museum: A Fascinating Showcase of History and Culture

The museum located inside the premises of the palace houses various items including armor, paintings, and the Divya Upadesh of Prithvi Narayan Shah.

Situated near the settlement within the confines of the Tallo (Lower) Durbar, the Gorkha Museum offers a captivating experience. The museum is housed in a charming Newari-style palace, constructed in 1835, which exudes a unique allure. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by a beautifully adorned courtyard, intricately carved woodwork adorning the interiors, and impressive windows that provide a glimpse into the past. The presence of large guns adds to the historical ambiance.

The museum’s notable collection primarily focuses on traditional war equipment, showcasing the rich military heritage of Gorkha. You’ll have the opportunity to explore an array of weapons and artifacts that tell stories of battles fought and won. Additionally, the museum features a statue depicting individuals from diverse castes and cultures, reflecting the rich diversity that characterizes Gorkha and Nepal as a whole.

A visit to the Gorkha Museum promises a journey through time, allowing you to immerse yourself in the history and cultural tapestry of this enchanting region.

Bhimsen Temple: A Miniature Pagoda-style Gem in Gorkha

Nestled within a quaint square in Gorkha, the Bhimsen Temple stands as a testament to architectural beauty in a miniature pagoda style. This charming temple holds a special significance as it is dedicated to Bhimsen, the Newari deity associated with commerce and trade.

The intricate craftsmanship and attention to detail in the temple’s design make it a visual delight. Its pagoda-style structure showcases the exquisite artistry that reflects the cultural heritage of the region. As you enter the temple premises, you will feel a sense of tranquility and devotion, creating a serene atmosphere for contemplation and reflection.

Whether you are exploring Gorkha for its historical significance or seeking a moment of spiritual connection, a visit to the Bhimsen Temple offers a glimpse into the rich cultural fabric of the region and a chance to appreciate the artistic beauty of this miniature pagoda gem.

Goraknath: A Sacred Site and Tourist Destination near Gorkha Palace

Situated just 10 meters south of the Gorkha Palace, Goraknath holds a significant place in the hearts of visitors and locals alike. Named after Goraknath, a revered Hindu yogi and the founder of the Nath Hindu movement, this location has transformed into a popular tourist spot in Gorkha.

Goraknath attracts devotees, particularly from the Brahman and Chhetri communities , who visit with deep reverence. The site has gained prominence as a place of spiritual devotion and reflection. Many visitors come to seek blessings and immerse themselves in the tranquil atmosphere that surrounds Goraknath.

Additionally, this sacred site hosts an annual fair on the full moon day of Baisakh (typically falling in April-May) within the Gorakhnath Cave. This vibrant fair draws crowds and adds a festive aura to the area, creating a lively and celebratory atmosphere.

As you explore Gorkha and its surrounding attractions, a visit to Goraknath provides an opportunity to connect with the religious heritage of the region and witness the devotion and spirituality that permeates through this revered site.

Gorakhkali Temple: A Sacred Abode atop Gorkha’s Hill

Perched at the southwestern side of the Gorkha Palace , atop a hill, lies the Gorakhkali Temple. This sacred temple dedicated to the Goddess Gorakhkali holds a prominent position in the hearts of devotees. To reach this revered site, one must ascend a challenging climb of 1,700 steps, a testament to the devotion and determination of the pilgrims.

The Gorakhkali Temple was built by King Ram Shah, adding historical significance to its spiritual allure. Within its hallowed premises, visitors can seek blessings and experience a sense of peace and reverence. The temple serves as a place of devotion, where worshippers offer prayers and pay homage to the powerful Goddess Gorakhkali.

As you make your way up the hill, each step bringing you closer to this sacred abode, you will be rewarded not only with the divine presence but also with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The journey itself becomes a spiritual and visual experience, connecting you to the natural beauty of Gorkha.

A visit to the Gorakhkali Temple offers a unique blend of religious devotion, historical significance, and awe-inspiring vistas, creating a memorable and enriching experience for all who venture to this sacred hilltop sanctuary.

Hotels in Gorkha:

To ensure a comfortable stay during your visit, Gorkha offers a range of hotels catering to different budgets and preferences. Whether you seek luxury accommodations or cozy guesthouses, you’ll find options that provide a delightful blend of comfort and hospitality.

In recent years, Gorkha has also emerged as a popular trekking hub, attracting adventure enthusiasts with its scenic trails and breathtaking views. This district seamlessly combines historical significance, natural beauty, and thrilling outdoor experiences, making it an ideal destination for explorers of all kinds.

Embark on a journey to Gorkha Durbar Nepal, and you’ll be rewarded with a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural wonders that will leave an indelible mark on your memories.

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Gorkha Palace/Gorkha Museum

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Pokhara - Abu Khaireni 84 km Abu Khaireni - Gorkha 26 km

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Standing tall on a hillock in the middle of Gorkha bazar, this historical 18th century place was known as the Gorkha palace (Durbar) even much before the Shah Dynasty kings occupied it during their rule of Gorkha. It is also known as Tallo Durbar and lower palace amongst the local community. Standing on a hillock overseeing the district headquarter, it is at a strategic location from a warfare point of view. The palace can only be reached by climbing 1,700 stonned steps from the main road which approximately takes about 40 minutes to each from the base to the palace top. Once on top, visitors can have a panoramic view of mountain peaks of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Manaslu, and Ganesh Himal from the east to the west. Likewise looking south, there are the hills of the Mahabharat range known as the fifth highest peak in the world (8,156 m), Mt. Manaslu falls in Gorkha district.

Situated within the palace premises, the Gorkha museum has 12 sectioned rooms which houses historical documents and information. The museum was only opened to the public in 2008. Historical artifacts such as the weapons used during Nepal’s unification process utensils used  during that period, mannequins with clothes worn by various indigenous people, oil paintings and musical instruments are some of collections visitors can see. There are also portraits of kings of the Shah Dynasty from Drabya Shah, Prithivi Narayan to the last king of Nepal Gyanendra Shah. The establishment of the museum was commissioned in 1816 by the then king Rajendra Bikram Shah according to historical documents. The building which houses the museum is reported to have been constructed for king Rajendra’s son Surendra Bikram Shah. The buildings court in a courtyard shaped architectures which was prevalent during the reigns of the Malla kings. Key attractions of the museum building are the woodworks that decorate it.

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Gorkha Palace: A Good Escape From Nepal's Tourist Trail

In September, 1768, Prithvi Narayan Shah, the king of Gorkha Kingdom in what is now central Nepal, was perched at the lip of the Kathmandu Valley, preparing himself for its imminent vanquishing. For weeks, the Shah and his 20,000 troops had been slowly choking off the city by blocking vital trading routes in the surrounding hills, and, hanging at the roadside, catching smugglers bringing in supplies. Finally, as many as 60,000 households in the valley below were on the brink of famine and would be unable to hold out much longer.

The Shah sent his troops to infiltrate the perimeter of Kathmandu, where, the story goes, women stood at their windows and tried to fend off the invaders by dumping water laced with chili powder on them. Men took to the streets to try their hand at direct combat. The efforts were in vain, and the king of Kathmandu was forced to flee the city. Not long after, the Shah also conquered the valley’s two other city-states, Lalitpur and Bhatkapur. It was 1769, and Kathmandu Valley was officially under Gorkhali rule.

As history usually smiles on the victors, today Prithvi Narayan Shah is one of the most celebrated figures in Nepali history. His successful campaigns in the valley and beyond unified rival kingdoms for the first time into a cohesive nation that would ultimately become Nepal. Up until the early 20th century, the country was known as Gorkha Rajya, or Gorkha Kingdom. What is today called the Nepali language was once Gorkhali.

These days, Prithvi Narayan Shah’s palace still stands in the town of Gorkha, 140 kilometers west of Kathmandu. The town was the kingdom’s capital until the Shah moved it to Kathmandu upon the city’s conquering. Curious to trace Nepal’s history back to its roots, my friend and I set out for Gorkha, a five-hour bus ride from the city.

Getting to Gorkha Gorkha is a good escape from Nepal’s tourist trail, and is an easy side trip if you’re traveling to Pokhara. The town is approximately halfway between Kathmandu and Pokhara, 24 kilometers north of the Privthi Highway. If you’re departing from Kathmandu, head to Kalanki in the southwest part of the city and find any bus or micro heading to Pokhara, or at least to Abu Khaireni. These buses leave frequently throughout the day, but get there early just in case. The journey takes about four hours and costs about NPR 200*. Get off at Abu Khaireni, which is where the road going to Gorkha breaks off from the main highway. From there, catch a bus heading up to Gorkha; the ride is about an hour and will cost around NPR 50. It’s possible to book a seat on a direct bus leaving from the New Bus Park, but often just hopping on a bus in Kalanki gets you there just as quickly. If you’re departing from Pokhara, find any bus leaving for Kathmandu and get off at Abu Khaireni, about a three-hour ride. To return from Gorkha, go to the bus stand at the top of Gorkha Bazaar. There are three daily buses to Pokhara, and 10 to Kathmandu. *At time of publication, 1 Nepalese Rupee (NPR) = US $0.01

Our journey began as Kathmandu traffic gave way to green hills, and we passed villages with mud and thatched-roofed houses, their distinctive and warming smell — odors of livestock, smoke, and human sweat — pressing itself into the crevices of our vehicle.

Eventually we arrived in Gorkha Bazaar, a busy street jammed with shops selling electronics, jewelry, and clothes from China. “Is that the palace?” my friend asked, pointing up.

Yes, everyone in town confirmed, that’s the palace up there. 1,500 steps up.

Where to stay Gurkha Inn is easily the best hotel in town. It’s just off the main road, and unlike the majority of accommodations has the advantage of facing out over the valley, so on clear days the place gets views of the surrounding hills. The hotel also has a garden and patio area. Be careful, though — some rooms are dark and damp, so make sure to look at a few before you settle. Expect to pay NPR 1000 for a double room.

Prithvi Narayan Shah’s palace is known as Gorkha Durbar, and sits commandeering a ridge above town. The complex is a palace, fort, and temple all in one, and is the main remnant of Prithvi Narayan Shah’s rule in Gorkha.

I liked the fact that the palace lorded over its kingdom in this way, seemingly powerful, remote, inaccessible, omniscient. It reminded me vaguely of Kafka’s castle, and felt appropriate as the home of the country’s conqueror. We peered up at it, small and insignificant. I wondered if the Shah ever got lonely up there.

The next day, we set out for the palace. We passed through the older part of the village, cobblestone streets and old shrines. “Which way to the palace?” we inquired as we came upon people. “That way, up,” was the inevitable response. It wasn’t long before we found the stairs that led to the palace.

Getting to Gorkha Durbar On the right-hand side of the bus stand at the top of Gorkha Bazaar, there’s a cobblestone street slanting slightly uphill towards the Tourist Information Office. Take the street and follow it as it snakes right around the white Mahadev temple. You’ll end up at a square with the Gorkha Museum on one end and a trail map on the other. The trail up to Gorkha Durbar is just a little farther down on the right-hand side from the map. Then begins a steep, hour-long ascent uphill. The walk up can be tiring, but there are plenty of small tea shops along the way if you need to stop and rest.

As we climbed, the sun pinned us vindictively under its thumb. It was also exceptionally humid, and as we got higher, I began to feel increasingly exhausted and dizzy. I assumed hallucinations had gotten the better of me when I began to see drops of blood splattered across the path. Then there was more blood, and people carrying large rice bags dripping with blood. We came upon a headless goat laid out beside the path; its owner was skinning the carcass. It seemed to be sacrificing day — not a good day for goats.

After about an hour of steep ascent, we reached the palace.

Goats were scattered across the palace’s premises. On the half-moon day of the lunar month, as well as other important dates, villagers bring their goats, chickens, and buffaloes for sacrifice to the goddess Kali, the destructive incarnation of Lord Shiva’s consort, Parvati. Inside the temple, I watched as a priest stood over a goat and swiftly beheaded it. His smoothness and speed was impressive.

When to go While Gorkha Durbar is open all year round, the best time to go corresponds with Nepal’s trekking season, from October to May. Often, from June to September, the weather can be hot and humid, and the monsoon clouds obscure any view of the surrounding mountains. The winter months can also be chilly, although there is relatively uncommon. What to bring Good walking shoes — The trail is paved with stones the entire way, but can be a little arduous. Ample supply of water — Bottled water is available along the trail up to Gorkha Durbar, but it will be cheaper if you bring your own. Nepali phrasebook — The trail up to Gurkha Durbar passes houses where people are often working or relaxing outside — excellent opportunities to converse and learn more about the area.

The other main attraction for visitors in Gorkha is the palace museum, which holds artifacts and paintings from the days of Privthi Narayan Shah. After meandering around the ridge and exploring some old forts that are now occupied by the army, we made our way back down to the town, where the museum is located. When we tried to enter, a guard stopped us. “The museum is closed today, and tomorrow and the next day too,” he said unsympathetically.

We were leaving the next day for Kathmandu, so the museum would have to wait until next time. We left, walking down the cobblestone streets, and I looked back up in the direction of the palace, imagining Privthi Narayan Shah looking out over his kingdom many centuries ago.

On the north side of the palace are stone edicts erected in honor of Privthi Narayan Shah.

What else to do in Gorkha Gorkha Durbar is the town’s main attraction. However, there are other sites in the area worth exploring. Although it was closed when I passed through, the Gorkha Museum sounds cool. The building itself is beautiful, another Newari-style palace built in 1835. Inside, there are artifacts from the era of Privthi Narayan Shah — cannons, rifles, arrows, spears, even his throne. On the top of the ridge to the northeast of Gorkha Durbar is Upallokot, an ancient fort. The trail leading to the fort winds through quiet forest, past modern army barracks. It’s a small and relatively unremarkable structure, but still an interesting piece of history. Just above the bus stand in Gorkha Bazaar is Ratna Temple, the now unoccupied residence of Nepal’s last king. Around the area is also a variety of small temples.

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Gorkha: The Historical Landmark of Nepal

Looking at the history of Nepal , Gorkha is a historic place where the King Prithvi Narayan Shah was born, who ultimately unified Nepal as one. Apart from the historical importance of this place, Gorkha has developed as a trekking hub in these recent years.

Apart from the glorious range of the beautiful Himalayas, rich biodiversity, varied topography, and distinctive culture and tradition, Nepal is known around the world as the home of brave legendary Gurkhas. And, the title of “ brave Gurkhas ” came from the Gorkha, as most of the soldiers during the wars were from Gorkha itself. Gorkha is the birthplace of Prithvi Narayan Shah, who conquered and joined the small states to make one large nation, as well as the home of legendary Gurkhas. Let us know more about this sensational place of Nepal.

Table of Contents

About Gorkha

It won’t be wrong if we call Gorkha as the foundation of Nepal. It was the Gorkha, from where the vision of today’s Nepal was envisaged by the first king of Nepal, King Prithivi Narayan Shah.

Along with the historical essence, Gorkha is also one of the beautiful places and has several finest architectural examples. From Gorkha, you can witness stunning mountain views, green hills with lush forest and gorgeous rivers running down from the mountain.

Gorkha is a historic place of Nepal. Its palace is located at the top of a hill with the finest use of architecture. The location of the palace was made on the hilltop as a war-strategy as well to protect the royal families from the armies of the enemy. One can see the mesmerizing view all round from the top.

In Gorkha, there is mostly Gurung ethnic group, who has earned praise and respect for their bravery as a Brave Gurkhas in both world wars. Some of them have also earned Victoria Cross, which is the highest award of the British honors system. No doubt they have a very strict and fierce attitude in the battlefield, but they are Nepali after all,and they are very amiable who will warmly welcome with a great deal of hospitality.

You can also go hiking around the Gorkha, through the lush jungle and enjoying the views. Passing the distinctive villages, ancient temples with excellent artwork, and you might also encounter the honey hunters collecting the honey from wild bees. Also, Manaslu Circuit Trek lies in Gorkha district which will give them an opportunity to witness the classic, historical and loved the cultural town.

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History of unification from gorkha.

Before Nepal was unified as one country, there were several small states in Nepal, in total 54 states.  After Prithvi Narayan Shah succeeded the throne, he started to contemplate the ways of expanding the state of Gorkha into more large and strong state, as Gorkha was just a small state when he came into the throne. Determined in his decision, Prithvi Narayan went to Banaras to gather knowledge about neighboring states and India as Banaras was trade center of India where people from different places used to come. He met with different types of people gathering a valuable understanding of the political and social condition of the Indian sub-continent. After his father-in-law, a Rajput Chief of Banaras obtained some firearms and ammunition, Prithvi Narayan Shan made his first invasion on Nuwakot in 1743 CE but failed.

Despite his first attempt, Prithvi Narayan Shah continued his quest and conquered many states; he turned his attention to the eastern and western kingdoms. After the victory over Darjeeling (now in India) and while in a plan to attack Sikkim, his health deteriorated and died at the age of 56. During the last hours of life, he called his sons and brothers and gave them messages about why he was involved in unifying Nepal and what should be the appropriate policies and programs for future, which was compiled as Divya Upadesh (Divine Advice).

Where to visit in Gorkha?

Gorkha durbar.

Built in the 16 th century, this palace of Gorkha is one perfect example of the Newari architecture of Nepal. Gorkha Durbar is a palace, fort,and temple as well. This place holds special significance as the birthplace of the creator of Nepal, Prithvi Narayan Shah.

Gorkha Durbar also has great religious importance,and any leather items like shoes, belt,etc are not allowed. Pilgrims enter the temple from the western gate, emerging an open terrace in front of the exquisite Kalika temple, which was builtduring the 17 th century. The temple features excellent craft of peacocks, demons,and serpents in every inch of woods. The rules of this temple are so strict that only Brahmin priests and the King can enter, while other non-Hindus are only allowed to observe the view from the terrace.

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In the east wing of the palace complex is the former place of King Prithvi Narayan Shah, which is called Dhuni Pati and it is covered in the elaborated wood carvings. It suffered great damage during the earthquake of 2015, so you might find a lot of scaffolding as the place is under construction. You can also find a tomb of Guru Gorakhnath, a reclusive saint who acted as a spiritual guide of Young Prithvi Narayan.

Then while exiting northern gate, you will pass the former Royal Guest House of the palace, which has erotic roof struts and crocodile caving the window frames. You will also see the painting of Hanuman statue and a path which willlead to the place from where you see an awesome view and several sets of carved stone footprints dedicated to Ram, Sita, Gorakhnath and Guru Padmasambhava.

This historic palace suffered several damages in the 2015 earthquake and was able to survive miraculously. The construction and repair of the damaged sites are still ongoing.

Gorkha Museum

Gorkha Museum is inside the Tallo Durbar, a Newari-style palace. Built in 1835, this museum attracts you from its building itself. Gorkha museum has a beautiful courtyard with perfectly craved woodwork indoors and window. Although the collection of Gorkha museum is limited, it is delightful to walk around this area as it is set in the large garden of 3.5 hectares.

Bhimsen Temple

Bhimsen Temple is a located in a small square of Gorkha. This temple is built in a miniature pagoda style and has been dedicated to Bhimsen, the Newari god of Commerce. People visiting this temple generally throw a coin as a gesture of offering.

Goraknath is located at the ten meters down the southern side of the Gorkha Palace. Goraknath was a Hindu yogi who was an influential founder of the Nath Hindu movement and also one of the two notable disciples of Matsyendranath. This place is a popular tourist spot of Gorkha and also visited with a great devotion by Brahmans and Chhetries considering it is the holy pilgrimage site. This place holds an extravagant fair every year on the day of Baisakh Purnima (the full moon day of Baisakh) in Gorakhnath Cave.

Gorakhkali Temple

Gorakhkali Temple is located at the south-west side of the Gorkha Palace. It is at the top of the hill which will take about 1700 steps to reach. Dedicated to the Goddess Gorakhkali, the temple was built during the reign of King Ram Shah.

Know more about Gorkha

Manakamana temple.

Located in the Gorkha, Manakamana Temple is one of the most popular pilgrimage sites of Nepal. The word “Manakamana” comprises two words, “mana” and “kamana,” meaning heart and wish respectively. This temple is in existence since the 17 th century and is believed to be granted by any wish who makes the pilgrimage to the shrine to worship the Goddess. Manakamana Temple is a sacred place of Hindu Goddess Bhagwati who was an incarnation of Goddess Parvati.

The temple is of four stories with tiered pagoda-style roof and lies on a square pedestal. It is set in a square and looks across a massive sacred magnolia tree. Along with its great religious significance, this temple is also very artistic. Another attraction of this temple is the cable car.

Mahadev Temple

Characterized by a great number of Hindu followers, Nepal has thousands of temples dedicated to the various god and goddess. As the name suggests, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This is a squat white temple with a very distinctive statue of a bull. The bull is Nandi, the steed of Lord Shiva, who guards the Kailash Parbat (Lord Shiva’s adobe).

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Gorkha: A major destination to consider for a rich travel experience

Hariram Upreti

Gorkha is a district with rich narrative firmly cementing itself in the country’s history when the 16th Century king Drabya Shah conquered it after Ligligkot. He then founded the Gorkha Kingdom , one of the Chuabisi rajya s in medieval Nepal.

The kingdom was ruled by kings from Drabya Shah to Prithvi Narayan Shah, the unifier of present-day Nepal. Bhimsen Thapa, who is considered to be Nepal’s first prime minister, was also born in Gorkha.

Gorkha is a district that is archeologically important, naturally beautiful and culturally significant, boasting historic palaces, monuments and temples.

Visit Nepal 2020 , the ambitious government programme launched to promote tourism and welcome two million foreign tourists, is underway. And the local authorities say they will leave no stone unturned to attract a good number of tourists in Gorkha and establish the historic town as a major tourist destination in the country.

“We are working aggressively to welcome more tourists this year to mark Visit Nepal 2020. We will launch various programmes to promote tourism in this historic district,” said Rajan Raj Panta, Mayor of Gorkha Municipality.

The major draws of Gorkha Bazaar, the district headquarters, are the Gorkha Durbar, Gorkha Museum, Kalika Temple, Gorakhnath Temple, and Ram Shah’s Chautara, among others. Of late, Gorkha has been a major hub for educational excursion among students from across the country. According to data by Gorkha Museum, around 98,000 tourists, including both domestic and foreign tourists, visited the museum in the last fiscal year 2018/19. Around 25,000 people visited the museum in the first five months of the current fiscal year.

“I read about Gorkha in my history book,” said Jhalanath Gautam, a student from Jhapa who recently visited Gorkha along with his friends and teachers. “Now that I’ve visited the historic place, I know more about Prithvi Narayan Shah and his unification campaign.”

Gorkha Bazaar is 24km from Aanbukhaireni, which lies along the Prithvi Highway. Gorkha Museum is situated just around five minutes walk from Gorkha Buspark. The historic Gorkha Durbar lies at the top of the hill which is a few kilometres from the main bazaar. One can reach the Durbar either through a serpentine road that cuts through Satipipal and Gairikuwa, or walk for around half an hour through Durbarmarga and Guitardanda.

Gorkha Durbar

Ram Shah, well known for his judicial reforms, had built the Gorkha Durbar circa 1610. Though the monument is currently undergoing reconstruction after the 2015 earthquakes brought it down, it is still the main tourist attraction. The widely-revered king Prithvi Narayan Shah was born, ascended to the throne, and ruled from here until the Kingdom of Gorkha conquered Kantipur, in 1825 BS, and shifted the national capital to Kathmandu.

Though the reconstruction of Gorkha palace started two years ago, it is still in ruins. According to officials at the Gorkha Durbar Herchaha Adda [Gorkha Durbar Inspection Office], which oversees the palace’s maintenance, only about 30 percent of the reconstruction work has been completed so far. “The number of tourists has been abated because the palace is in the reconstruction process,” said Hari Bhusal, chief at the Gorkha Durbar Herchaha Adda.

The District Coordination Committee demanded to include the historic place in UNESCO’s list of world heritage sites. According to the committee, it urged the Nepal Tourism Board to take necessary initiatives to enlist the palace in the World Heritage Site list.

Kalika and Gorakhnath temples

The temples of Kalika and Gorakhnath are holy places for Hindu devotees. The foundations of the temples were shaken by the devastating quake and its powerful aftershocks, as a result of which the temples are currently in a dilapidated condition. But the faith among the devotees hasn’t shaken. Today, around 500 to 2,000 people visit the temples daily to offer prayers and perform pujas.

Gorakhnath Temple has an age-old tradition of offering specially-baked rice bread, locally known as Rota, to Gorakhnath. Ritually, the locals offer Rota made from their new harvest to Gorakhnath before starting to consume the new produce.

Visitors are pleased to see Nepal Army personnel clad with the traditional attire of Prithvi Narayan era in Kalika Temple and its vicinity. A troop of Shardul Jung Battalion in Hanumandhoka, Kathmandu, has been deployed in Kalika Temple for the past few months. “It (Gorkha Durbar and the entire district) is our history. I am very happy upon seeing Nepal Army soldiers with the traditional attire of Prithvi Narayan Shah’s time,” said Shivanath Yogi, who the Post met on the temple premises.

Gorkha Museum

A historic building that houses the museum is called Tallo Durbar. According to historians, the then king Rajendra Bikram Shah built the palace for his son Surendra. The palace occupies around four ropanies of land and a park has been built in 64 ropanies of land in its surroundings. Nabaraj Adhikari, chief at the Gorkha Museum, claims that it is the youngest palace built in traditional Malla style. “Other monuments mostly built by Rana rulers afterward have been built in European style,” said Adhikari.

The palace was used as an office until 1980. The government made a plan to set up a museum by starting the Gorkha Durbar Conservation Project. The museum, previously known as Prithvi Memorial Museum, opened for the general public in June 2008.

One can see weapons used in the unification and utensils, cultural uniforms of various ethnic groups of Prithivi Narayan-era. Janmakundali, the astrological position at birth, of various Shah kings are also kept in the museum. “The artefacts at the museum are subjects of study. They will help one in understanding the history, culture, social and economic status of the contemporary people of Nepal,” Adhikari said.

The ticket price to enter the museum has been fixed at Rs 10 for students, Rs 25 for Nepali citizens, Rs 50 for tourists from SAARC countries, and Rs 100 for tourists from outside the SAARC countries.

Statues of Shah kings and other attractions

The statue of Prithvi Narayan, his great grandfather Prithvipati, Ram Shah and Drabya Shah are other major tourist attractions of Gorkha. Prithvi Narayan’s statue is installed in the premises of Gorkha Museum while that of Ram Shah is installed at the Ram Shah’s Chautaro, a platform from which he used to provide justice to the people, it is said. The bust of Drabya Shah is also a major attraction among visitors in Paslang Chautara while Prithipati’s bust stands tall in the premises of Ranipokhari. The statues of other historical figures including Bhimsen Thapa, Lakhan Thapa—the first martyr of Nepal—and Bise Nagarchi have been installed in various places in Gorkha district headquarters. Bise Nagarchi, history says, was Prithvi Narayan Shah’s royal tailor upon whose suggestion Shah collected Re 1 from each household in Gorkha to fund the unification campaign.

“The visitors to this area are curious about the statues of historical figures,” said Makar Bahadur Gurung, a local. “They especially seem to enjoy taking selfies with the statues in the backdrop, a gesture that marries history and modernity.”

How to get there: Visitors can easily travel to Gorkha on a passenger bus or a private vehicle from Kathmandu or Pokhara. It is around 142km from Kathmandu and 106km from Pokhara.

Where to stay: Accommodation options in Gorkha Bazaar and its surrounding areas are aplenty, suitable for all budget types. Bisauni Hotel, Gorkha Palace, Miracle Hotel, Gorkha Gaun Resort and Paslang Homestay (around two kilometres from Gorkha Bazaar) are some of the many. A room per night can cost anywhere between Rs200-Rs1,500 depending on the accommodation you choose.

What to eat: Almost all the hotels serve Nepali food—dal, bhat and tarkari set. Check in to one of the homestays to enjoy a meal of gundruk and dhindo. Kodo ko roti (locally made bread of millet) and other organic foods are also widely available.

Detours: Bhimsen Park, Children’s Park, Sitapaila.

Budget: Around Rs 1,000 to 2,000 budget per day. 

Hariram Upreti Hariram Upreti is the Gorkha correspondent for Kantipur Publications.

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• Gorkha Durbar
• Tourist Places in Nepal

The Gorkha Durbar , also known as the Gorkha Palace, is a historic fort and palace complex in Gorkha, Nepal. It was built in the 16th century by Ram Shah and served as the seat of the Shah dynasty, who ruled Nepal from 1728 to 2008.

The Durbar is perched atop a hill, offering stunning views of the surrounding valley. It is a fascinating blend of architectural styles, with elements of Hindu, Buddhist, and Islamic influences. The complex includes several courtyards, temples, shrines, and living quarters. The main palace building is a three-story structure with intricate wood carvings and stonework.

Here are some of the interesting facts about Gorkha Durbar:

It is the birthplace of King Prithvi Narayan Shah, who is considered the founder of modern Nepal.

The Durbar played a key role in the unification of Nepal in the 18th century.

It was damaged during the 2015 earthquake, but is currently undergoing restoration.

The Durbar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you’re planning to visit Gorkha Durbar, here are a few things to keep in mind:

The Durbar is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm every day.

The entrance fee is NRs 150 for foreigners and NRs 25 for Nepalis.

You can climb the 1,500 steps to the Durbar, or take a taxi or jeep.

There are several hotels and restaurants in Gorkha town.

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Gorkha, the most important historical place of Nepal

Mount Manaslu View from Gorkha

Gorkha is situated in the western region of Nepal is the ancient district of Gorkha which is regarded as the land of the brave Gorkhali soldiers. About five hour drive from Kathmandu and four hour drive from Pokhara is the district of Gorkha where the brave King Prithvi Narayan Shah was born. With headquarters in the Gorkha bazaar, there aren’t any buses going directly to Gorkha, the travelers change bus or micros from Abu Khaireni.

Nestled in the mountains at the distance of about eighteen kilometers from Kathmandu-Pokhara highway is the ancient district of Gorkha which is the ancestral home of the Shah rulers of Nepal. This small town, no matter how popular or culturally and historically rich it is, does not target the adequate facilities available here for the tourist. Most of the lodges in Gorkha are found near the bus stops and the rates are relatively cheap.

One of the best places for sightseeing in Gorkha is King Prithvi Narayan Shah’s old palace, known as Gorkha Durbar that stands on a mountain ridge overlooking the ancient capital. The road from the bus stop passes throught the town’s Tundikhel and an army camp. A pond surrounded by some temples is also there and most of the ancient buildings of Gorkha were made by Newar craftsmen who were brought by the King to Gorkha during his return from Kathmandu. A structure standing close to the town center which was built in the 18th century is known as the Tallo Durbar and is believed to be the original site of the Gorkha palace before the rule of the Shahs had started. The palace that stands on the ridge above the town is known as Upallo Durbar and is the home of the Shah Kings. A long flight of stone stairs needs to be climbed to reach the Upallo Durbar which takes about thirty minutes. From this palace built by Ram Shah in 1600s, the views of the mountain ranges look splendid. Later the palace had been restored and much has been added to its sprawling intersections. The palace also houses the famous temple of Kali known as Gorakhkali, who is also considered as the guardian deity of Gorkha and Gorkhalis. The temple lay inside the fort and you have a feeling of standing on the Great Wall of China, only smaller.

Another great attraction of Gorkha is Manakamana temple. One of the most popular pilgrimages in Nepal, Manakamana is said to be the manifestation of the Hindu goddess Bhagwati and is believed to have the power of fulfilling the wishes of her devotees. You can reach the temple by three hour hike uphill from Abu Khaireni or can take the cable car ride and reach there in 10 minutes, both the modes of transportation have their own unique and interesting attractions.

Besides these, other major attractions here are the Budhi Gandaki River, Chepe River, Daraundi River, Marsyangdi River, Trishuli River, Pokharithok, Bhimsen Thapako Ghaderi, Gorakhnath, Mahademandir, Bishnumandir, Ganeshmandir, Hanumandhoka, Bhimsensthan, Nala Gumba, Karjuchhiling Gumba, Rinji Gumba, Manaslu Gumba, Seti Gupha, Sidha Gupha, Bakreswar Gupha, Sano Dudh Pokhari, Thulo Dudh Pokhari, Tatopani and Bhulbulekhar among others. The district is accessible via roadways from Abu Khaireni.

The Gorkha Durbar

Gorkha-Durbar

It’s a half-hour-plus 300m slog up a stone stairway to the Gorkha Durbar from Pokharithok, the junction just east of Tallo Durbar. With a 4WD vehicle, it is possible to drive most of the way up, circling round via the western side, but the walk is half the pleasure – and provides a properly testing approach. After a landmark swami (weeping fig) tree, the path forks: the most direct route ascends steeply through the old, pleasantly rural village, where there are opportunities to buy cold drinks and cups of tea; the longer, gentler left fork leads towards the ridgetop a short distance to the west of the palace.

The twin buildings of the palace sit atop the steepest, highest point of the ridge, buttressed by serried ranks of stone walls, and approached by a royal staircase worthy of any prince. It must have cowed visiting vassals into submission – a neat trick for a tin-pot realm that could barely muster 150 soldiers at the time of Prithvi Narayan’s first campaign. Entrance to the Durbar is through a doorway towards the western side, reached by a path to the left of the retaining wall. No leather is allowed in the compound.

THE KALIKA MANDIR Conceived as a dwelling for kings and gods, the fortress remains a religious place, and first stop in any visit is the revered Kalika Mandir, occupying the left (western) half of the Durbar building. Its interior is closed to all but priests – who say that any others would die upon beholding Kali’s terrible image. Sacrifices are made in the alcove in front of the entrance daily except on ekadasi (which falls every fourteen days, following the lunar calendar). After the observance of astami (again, twice monthly on the lunar month), which is celebrated with special gusto in Gorkha, the paving stones are sticky with blood. Most worshippers arrive cradling a trembling goat or chicken and leave swinging a headless carcass. Chait Dasain, Gorkha’s biggest annual festival, brings processions and more blood-letting in late March or early April, as does the tenth day of Dasain in October.

THE PALACE The right (east) wing of the Durbar is the historic palace, site of Prithvi Narayan’s birthplace and, by extension, the ancestral shrine of the Shah kings. Though pre-dating the Gorkhali conquest of Kathmandu, the exceptional eighteenth-century brick- and woodwork palace bears the unmistakeable stamp of Newari craftsmanship. You can peer through the latticework of the door at the eastern facade and see the flank of what is claimed to be Prithvi Narayan’s throne.

THE CAVE OF GORAKHNATH The space within the fortress walls is fairly littered with other Hindu shrines. By the eastern exit is a small temple built around the holy cave of Gorakhnath, the centre for worship of the shadowy Indian guru who gave Gorkha its name and is regarded as a kind of guardian angel by the Shah kings. Sadhus of the Gorakhnath cult are known as kaanphata (“split-ears”), after an initiation ceremony in which they insert sticks in their ear lobes – a walk in the park compared to some of the other things they get up to in the name of their guru. Kaanphata priests sometimes administer ashen tika from the shelter above the cave.

By Anil Blon

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Gorkha Museum

Housed inside the grand Tallo Durbar, a Newari-style palace built in 1835, this museum's collection is outshone by the building itself, which has a beautiful internal courtyard with carved windows and doors. While the collection is limited, it's a pleasure to wander the old hallways lined with arts and crafts and historical items, and to stroll the 3.5 hectares of garden. This is the natural first stop after the nearby tourist office .

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Nearby Gorkha attractions

1 . Bhimsen Temple

2 . Ganesh Temple

This small, white shikhara (an Indian-style temple with a tall corn-cob spire) is dedicated to Ganesh. You'll find it next to a ceremonial tank.

3 . Mahadev Temple

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4 . Vishnu Temple

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5 . Gorkha Durbar

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What is Gorkha Famous For?

You are about to visit Nepal but want to explore some off-beaten places. It is time for you to come to Gorkha, Nepal, a land steeped in history and cultural richness.

The region is also famous for its Gurkha soldiers, known globally for their bravery and military power. 

Gorkha's cultural heritage, scenic beauty, and religious sites add charm. At the same time, it is a destination that blends history, tradition, and natural splendor.

Stay with me to learn more about what and why Gorkha is famous. 

Where is Gorkha Located?

Gorkha is in central Nepal and holds a special place in the country's history and geography. 

It is located about 140 kilometers west of the capital, Kathmandu. Beautiful hills and impressive mountains in surround the region with stunning views of the Himalayan foothills.

Its strategic location played a crucial role in shaping the destiny of Nepal. 

Additionally, it served as the birthplace of King Prithvi Narayan Shah, the visionary leader who unified the small, fragmented states into the modern nation we know today, 

7 Things Gorkha is Famous For

The Gorkha is a district filled with fantastic splendor. Stay with me as we break down seven things Gorkha is famous for;   

Historical Significance

Gorkha stands as a living testament to Nepal's historical narrative. It is the birthplace of King Prithvi Narayan Shah.

The visionary leader whose conquests in the 18th century unified the fragmented states into the modern nation of Nepal. 

The region's historical resonance continues to shape the cultural and national identity of the country.

Gorkha Palace (Gorkha Durbar)

The Gorkha Palace, also known as Gorkha Durbar, is an architectural gem and a significant historical landmark. 

Once serving as the royal residence for the Shah dynasty, this ancient palace offers visitors a captivating journey through time. 

Its strategic location atop a hill provides panoramic views and is a must-visit for those seeking to immerse themselves in Nepal's regal past.

Gurkha Soldiers

Gorkha has earned global recognition for producing the renowned Gurkha soldiers. It is celebrated for its unwavering bravery. 

With a storied history of service in various military forces worldwide, the Gurkhas are integral to Nepal's cultural and military heritage.

Cultural Heritage

Enriched with a vibrant cultural tapestry, Gorkha showcases traditional music, dance, and festivals that reflect the unique customs of the Gorkhali people. 

This cultural richness creates an immersive experience for visitors to glimpse the heart and soul of the community.

Gorkha Museum

The Gorkha Museum serves as a cultural repository. It is a collection of artifacts, documents, and exhibits that delve into Gorkha's history and heritage intricacies. 

It provides an educational and insightful journey for those eager to explore the region's multifaceted past.

Scenic Beauty

Gorkha is located between the hills and against the majestic Himalayas' backdrop.GItsscenic beauty captivates the senses. 

The lush landscapes and stunning vistas attract nature enthusiasts, trekkers, and those seeking tranquility in the embrace of Nepal's natural wonders.

Religious Sites:

Gorkha is home to sacred religious sites, including the Gorakhnath Cave and the Manakamana Temple. 

These sites contribute to the spiritual allure of the region. It draws pilgrims and visitors who seek moments of reflection and connection with Nepal's deeply rooted religious traditions.  

To wrap up, Your journey to Gorkha helps you discover Gorkha's fantastic world. The journey unveils the treasures of Gorkha, from its captivating museums that house the stories of yesteryears to the sacred religious sites.

With  Nepal Vision Treks , you get to see cool historical stuff and learn about Gurkha soldiers who are super brave. It's like having a friend who knows all the most fantastic things about Gorkha's culture and traditions.

• What is Gorkha famous for historically?

Gorkha is renowned as the birthplace of King Prithvi Narayan Shah, the founder of modern Nepal.

•  What is the Gorkha Palace, and why is it significant?

Gorkha Palace, or Gorkha Durbar, is a historical landmark serving as the seat of power for the Shah dynasty with breathtaking Himalayan views.

• Why are Gurkha soldiers famous, and where are they from?

Gurkha soldiers, known for their bravery, hail from Gorkha, Nepal, and have a storied history of global military service.

• How does Gorkha contribute to Nepal's cultural heritage?

Gorkha is rich in cultural traditions, featuring music, dance, and festivals reflecting the unique customs of the Gorkhali people.

• What does the Gorkha Museum showcase?

The Gorkha Museum houses artifacts and exhibits providing insights into the history and heritage of the region.

• Why is Gorkha considered scenically beautiful?

Between the hills and the Himalayan backdrop, Gorkha offers picturesque landscapes attracting tourists and trekkers.

•  What religious sites are found in Gorkha?  

Gorkha is home to sacred sites like the Gorakhnath Cave and Manakamana Temple, adding to its cultural and spiritual significance.

• How does Gorkha stand out in terms of its cultural vibrancy?

Gorkha's cultural richness is showcased through traditional music, dance, and festivals, creating a vibrant cultural experience.

• Why is Gorkha considered historically significant for Nepal?

Gorkha was pivotal in Nepal's unification under King Prithvi Narayan Shah in the 18th century.

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5 Things to Do in Gorkha

Gorkha, a place where tourists can witness mesmerizing views of the Himalayas and enrich themselves with Nepal’s fascinating culture, history and religion, is a small town where the name of the world-renowned Gurkha soldiers rose.

Gorkha is famous since it is the birthplace of the most renowned king, Prithvi Narayan Shah. After visiting Gorkha, one can know about the history of the Nepali people and their ancestral traditions, kingdoms and dynasties.

Looking for things to do in Gorkha? Here are 5 Things to do in Gorkha

Gorkha Durbar

The 16 th century Gorkha Durbar is a palace, temple and fort all in one. The beautiful and eye-catching architecture of the temple perches high above Gorkha with fascinating views over the Trishuli Valley and mesmerizing panoramas of the soaring peaks of Manaslu, Annapurna and Ganesh Himalayas.

Taking a glimpse of 8000M+ Peak, Mount Manaslu

It is the eighth highest peak in the world that lies in Gorkha district. Upon entering the Manaslu region, tourists can get the closest view of mountainous beauty with glacial ridges and landscapes offering amazing views. On your way to Manaslu, you shall come across rivers, streams and waterfalls and a walk through plains and hills along the rugged and narrow terrain adds a beauty to the trip.

Manakamana Temple

The temple is situated at the top of the hill and holds great religious and historical importance. Hundreds and thousands of tourists come here with the hope of getting their wishes fulfilled by Goddess Bhagawati. Tourists can go to the temple through cable cars and cover the distance in just 10 minutes

Gorkha Museum

The Gorkha museum, housed inside the grand Tallo Durbar provides a glimpse of ancient historic times and places. The museum has a beautiful internal courtyard with carved doors and windows. It is a pleasure for the tourists to wander the old hallways lined with historical items and arts and crafts.

Gorkha Nath Temple

The Gorkhanath temple is visited by Brahmans and Chhetris with great devotion considering it to be the holy pilgrimage site. Every year, the great fare is organized on Baisakh Purnima in Gorkhanath Cave. The temple is dedicated to the 11th-century yogi who invented Hatha yoga and founded the Shaivite monastic tradition.

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Gorkha Durbar

The Palace which was built during the reign of King Ram Shah in the 1600s is considered as a symbolic heart of Gorkha. Also regarded as the masterpiece of Newari architecture, the 16th century Gorkha Durbar is temple, Fort and palace all in one.

RAHUL AWASTHI

Gorkha Durbar , the Palace which was built during the reign o f King Ram Shah in the 1600s is considered as a masterpiece of Newari Culture architecture and a symbolic heart of Gorkha . The 16th century Gorkha Durbar is a temple, fort, and a palace all in one.

Being the birthplace of King Prithvi Narayan Shah, the palace has huge importance and significance for all the Nepali People . Gorkha was a minor feudal Kingdom at the time of his birth, after gaining the throne, King Prithvi Narayan Shah worked on extending the territories of Gorkha all the way from North Tibet to South India . Gorkha Durbar is not only famous for being the birthplace of King Prithvi Narayan Shah but also as a place where the annual Dashain festival began. Newari people also regard the area sacred as they view Shah’s as living embodiments of Lord Vishnu. Gorkha is also considered as a place where the famous British Gurkha Battalion was established .

Getting There

The city is connected to Abu Khaireni which is 23km, from Prithvi Highway connecting Gorkha Bazaar to the rest of Nepal. The city is 142km from  Kathmandu  and can take about 4 hours on a bus. Another important city of Nepal,  Pokhara  is also located in very close proximity to Gorkha, only 106km which takes about  2 hours to reach Pokhara  from Gorkha.

Gorkha has an airfield named  Palungtar Airport or Gorkha Airport . However, the airport is not in operation and has been closed now.  Pokhara Airport  is the nearest airport of the city.  Regular buses  and taxis are available to reach Gorkha from the airport.  Yeti Airlines , Shree Airlines have been providing their service.

The Medieval Palace Complex Of Gorkha

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Gorkha District - Gandaki Province

Gorkha District, located in Gandaki Province, is one of Nepal's 77 districts and the country's fourth-largest (by area). It is traditionally linked to the establishment of modern Nepal and bears the name of the mythical Gurkha soldiers.

According to the 2011 Nepal Census, the district spans 3,610 km2 (1,390 sq mi) and has a population of 271,061 people, with Gorkha Municipality (previously known as Prithivi Narayan Nagarpalika) as its district headquarters.

Gorkha Palace: Historical Citadel Beauty

Credit:Nepaltraveller.com

The Manakamana Temple is located in the Gorkha district. The district contains the Gorakh Nath and Gorakh Kali temples. The Chepe, Marsyangdi, Daraudi, Budi Gandaki, and Trishuli rivers all flow through the district.

How does Gorkha get its name?

There are two stories surrounding the name "Gorkha":

• 'Kharka' means 'grassland' in Nepali. Later, kharka became garkha, and then Gorkha.
• According to legend, Gorakhnath, a saint, first appeared in Nepal in Gorkha. A cave with his paduka ('footprint') and a likeness exist, proving the legend. Gorkha was the name given to the city because it was established in the location where Sage Gorakhnath appeared.

How can you reach Gorkha?

Regular bus services to and from Kathmandu (six hours) and Pokhara are available in Gorkha city (three hours). Daily buses depart from the Gongabhu bus station on Kathmandu's Ring Road for Gorkha.

History of Gorkha District

Gorkha is the term by which Nepali people first were known around the world (the British called the Nepali soldiers they recruited Gurkhas). Gorkha was the name of the kingdom where the Shah dynasty came from. Before King Prithvi Narayan Shah started his invasion of neighbouring states, Nepal was split into hundreds of small kingdoms.

In 1769, he conquered the valley kingdoms and relocated his capital to Kantipur (Kathmandu's last name). The Shah rulers persisted in their efforts to unite Nepal by bringing all of the smaller kingdoms under their control.

Climatic Zones of Gorkha District

Gorkha is divided into eight climatic zones. They are as follows:

• Lower Tropical
• Upper Tropical
• Subtropical
• Trans-Himalayan

Mountains in Gorkha District

There are several renown tall mountains in the district of Gorkha. They are:

• Manaslu (8,163 m)
• Himalchuli (7,895 m)
• Ganesh Himal (7,422 m)
• Ngadi Chuli (7,871 m)
• Ganesh VI (6,480 m)
• Nar Phu (5,748 m)

At 8,163 meters (26,781 feet) above sea level, Manaslu is the world's eighth highest peak. It is located in the Mansiri Himal, which is part of the Nepalese Himalayas in Nepal's west-central region. The term Manaslu is taken from the Sanskrit language Manasa, which means "intellect" or "soul" and means "mountain of the mind."

Beautiful view of Manaslu Peak

Manaslu is the highest point in Gorkha District, located 64 kilometres (40 miles) east of Annapurna. Long mountain ranges and valley glaciers provide entrance from all directions, culminating in a plateau that rises sharply above the surrounding ground and is a prominent feature as seen from afar.

There are numerous trekking options in the Manaslu area. The famous 177-kilometre (110-mile) Manaslu trekking route skirts the Manaslu massif, passing through the pass and down to Annapurna. Only in 1991 did the Nepalese government allow trekking on this circuit.

Along the Budhi Gandaki River, the trekking path parallels an ancient salt-trading road. Ten peaks above 6,500 meters (21,325 feet) are visible along the way, with a few above 7,000 meters (22,966 ft). The Larkya La, lying at the height of 5,106 meters, is the highest point reached along the trek path (16,752 ft).

Himalchuli is the second highest peak in Nepal's Himalayas, located in the Mansiri Himal. It is located south of Manaslu, an Eight-thousander. East (7893 m), West (7540 m), and North (7893 m) are the three major peaks of Himalchuli (7371 m). It's also known as "Himal Chuli" when written in two sentences.

Himalchuli is the world's 18th highest peak (using a cutoff of 500m prominence, or re-ascent). Himalchuli is also known for its significant vertical relief over the surrounding terrain. For e.g., in about 27 km (17 mi) horizontal span, it rises 7000m over the Marsyangdi River to the southwest.

Ganesh Himal

Ganesh Himal is a Himalayan sub-range situated mainly in north-central Nepal, with some peaks bordering Tibet. It is separated from the Langtang Himal on the east by the Trisuli Gandaki valley. From the Sringi Himal and the Mansiri Himal on the west by the Budhi (Buri) Gandaki valley and the Shyar Khola valley (home of Manaslu, the nearest 8000m peak). The range is located about 70 kilometres north of Kathmandu.

Ganesh Himal: Sacred Mountain Majesty

Credit:Himkalaadventure.com

Ganesh Himal, mainly Ganesh NW, which is closest to the Shyar Khola, enjoys excellent vertical relief over nearby valleys. Ganesh Himal, mainly Ganesh NW, which is most relative to the Shyar Khola, enjoys great upright comfort over nearby valleys.

Ngadi Chuli

Ngadi Chuli, better known as Peak 29, Dakum, Dakura, or Dunapurna, is a high summit in Nepal's Mansiri Himal (or Manaslu Himal), also known as the Gurkha Massif. To the north, Manaslu is located, and to the south, Himalchuli.

Nar Phu, also known as 'Narpa,' is a Sino-Tibetan dialect spoken in the two villages of Nar and Phu in the Nar Khola Valley in Nepal's Manang district. It has a dialect continuum with Manang and can be understandable with it; but, the Nar and Phu have a secret language that Gyasumdo and Manang would otherwise understand.

People of Gorkha District

Gurungs and Magars, the two largest ethnic groups in Gorkha, have a reputation for courage in both World Wars, receiving Victoria Crosses from the British government. But they only showed their ferocity on the battlefield; under normal conditions, they were polite people with a reputation for outstanding hospitality.

The famous documentary "The Honey Hunters of Nepal," directed by Eric Valli and Diane Summers, was filmed in Gorkha, where the locals still gather wild honey.

Gorkha Durbar

Gorkha's main attraction is the ancient old Durbar, the Shah dynasty's original palace, which has been well conserved and a renowned tourist destination. The castle, which is perched on a hilltop, offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area.

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Narayanhiti Palace Museum

Narayanhiti Palace  or  Narayanhiti Durbar  (Nepali:  नारायणहिटी दरवार ) is a palace in Kathmandu, which long served as the residence and principal workplace of the reigning monarch of the Kingdom of Nepal. Located in the capital city of Kathmandu, the palace was the center of state occasions and royal hospitality. The palace complex is located towards the east of the Kaiser Mahal next to Thamel and is incorporated in an impressive and vast array of courtyards, gardens, and buildings. The current Narayanhiti Durbar was built by King Mahendra in 1963.

The name, ”Narayanhiti” is made up of two words ‘Narayana’ and ‘Hiti’. Narayan is the Hindu god Vishnu, whose temple is located opposite the palace. ‘Hiti’ means “water spout” in Newar Language, which is also located to the east of the main entrance in the precincts of the palace, a landmark that features prominently in local legends.

Table of Contents

Inside Narayanhiti Palace Museum

The Narayanhiti palace building has a pagoda-style construction. It is divided into three wings: The Private wing, The Guest wing, and The State wing. There are altogether 52 rooms in the palace. The rooms have names of districts of Nepal. The rooms and halls of the Narayanhiti museum are decorated with valuable items and artifacts.

The Reception Hall, known as Kaski Sadan, is a massive room decorated with tiger skin, King’s portrait in sequence, and many sculptures of deities. The Makeup room for the Queen is named Sindhuli. The waiting room for guests before they meet the King is called Jhapa.

The throne room, known as Gorkha Baithak, has a height of 60 feet. It has a pagoda-style architecture with a huge chandelier surrounded by huge paintings of Hindu Deities. Underneath the extravagant chandelier is the throne of the King made up of gold and silver.

The room where the King was killed is left as it is. So, the room walls have bullet scars and bloodstains. People are more interested in observing those unsolved pieces of evidence of the royal massacre inside the Narayanhiti palace museum.

Rooms in Narayanhiti Palace

There are a total of 52 meeting rooms in Narayanhiti Durbar. Among all of them, only 19 rooms were opened to the public by 2068 BS.

Major Attraction of Narayanhiti Palace

After entering through a very high entrance named Gaurishankar located at the main facade of the palace, one reaches the Kaski meeting place. The Kaski meeting included important ceremonies such as welcoming foreign heads of state on a state visit to Nepal, swearing in ceremonies of prime ministers, heads of constitutional organs, and conferring certificates of office by ambassadors to the former king.

Tanahu Room

Right in front of the Kaski meeting, after climbing a curved ladder with a dark red carpet, you reach the Tanahu meeting. There is a huge glass window just above the ladder.

Gorkha Room

In the Gorkha meeting room, it was announced that Yuvaraj had reached old age. King Birendra had proclaimed the constitution of 2047 BS sitting on the throne in the same chamber.

Myagdi Room

The heads of the constitutional organs and ambassadors were given refreshments in the Myagdi Room and

Parbat Room

Various signing ceremonies were held in the Parbat Room.

The Rukum Room was used as a waiting room by dignitaries visiting foreign heads of state.

The Rolpa Room was used as a meeting place. In the corridor from Rolpa Room to Baitadi Room, pictures taken by the then King Virendra and Queen Aishwarya with foreign heads of state who have spent the night at the palace are hung.

Dailekh, Baitadi, and Achham Rooms

The foreign president used to sleep on a grand bed in the Dailekh room, while his wife used to sleep in the Baitadi room and close relatives in the Achham room.

Bajura & Jumla Rooms

The Bajura Room was arranged for the foreign chiefs to dine, and they rested after eating in the Jumla Room.

Dolpa Room 

The Dolpa Room was used as a secret room for other members of the royal family to visit during special events at the Gorkha meeting.

The materials used by King Tribhuvan are kept in the Mugu Room.

Lamjung & Gulmi Rooms

Dinner was held in the Lamjung Room, while the Gulmi Room was the former king’s private office.

Dhading & Dhankuta Rooms

The Dhading chamber was the king’s resting room, while the Dhankuta chamber was used as the king’s bed.

Dhanusha Room

The Dhanusha room was used as a place to receive the tika on the day of Vijayadashami. There is a group photo of the members of the royal family in that room on 4 Bhadra, 2055 and 10 Magh, 2059. All members had signed under the photo.

Tribhuvan House

The Tribhuvan House is another attraction that is currently open. The palace was the residence of King Tribhuvan where the Durbar massacre took place on Jestha 19, 2058. In that incident, King Birendra and his entire family, including Prince Dhirendra Shah, were killed. In 2061, the building was demolished. The foundation of the building is now paved with bricks. The exact spots are mentioned where Virendra, Aishwarya, and Dipendra fell for the bullet.

Fountain Garden

The fountain garden just behind the Narayanhiti palace is another attraction. That garden was made by Tribhuvan. A small water tank has been built in the middle of the garden. There are revolving and round houses. At the first South Asian Conference in Nepal, a banquet was organized in the same garden in honor of foreign heads of state. Gyanendra Shah used to organize an afternoon party in the garden on a special festival

Massacre of Royal Family of Nepal

The infamous Royal massacre took place in Narayanhiti Palace on 1st June 2001. It is considered a dark event in the history of Nepal that will always bring grief to people’s hearts when brought up even after two decades.

In this royal massacre, the whole family of King Birendra was murdered. The mass shooting killed 10 members of the Royal family including King Birendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev, Queen Aishwarya Rajya Laxmi Devi Shah, Princess Shruti, Crown Prince Dipendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev, and Prince Nirajan Bir Bikram Shah Dev.

First houses on the site

During the early Shah period, the site of the future Narayanhiti Palace was occupied by the family of shreepali basnet Kaji Dhokal Singh Basnet house. Ownership of the site changed hands many times; after Dhokal Singh Basnyat the site was occupied by Chautariya Fateh Jung Shah (6th Prime Minister of Nepal), his father courtier Choutaria Pran Shah and family. During the Kot massacre of 19 September 1846 both Prime Minister Chautariya, Fateh Jang Shah along with his father Choutaria Pran Shah and brothers were killed or send in exile out of Kathmandu. After this massacre, Narayanhiti Palace was taken over by Jung Bahadur Rana’s brother future Prime Minister then colonel Ranodip Singh Kunwar.

Colonel Ranodip Singh ordered the minor renovation of the old palace of Choutaria Pran Shah and used it as his private residence. After ascending the throne of Prime Minister Maharaja in 1877, Narayanhit Durbar was again renovated, but this time much lavish and was extended into a multi-wing palace On 22 November 1885 during a coup d’état Prime Minister Maharaja Ranodip Singh Kunwar was assassinated by his nephews, the Sumsher brothers(Khadga Shumsher, Chandra Shumsher, and Dumber Shumsher) somewhere in the southern wing of this palace.

Home of the monarch

Old Narayanhiti Palace ca. 1920, demolished in 1958.

After the death of Prime Minister Maharaja Ranodip Singh Kunwar, on 22 November 1885, Bir Shumsher JBR assessed the throne of Prime Ministership and took over the Narayanhiti palace of Ranodip Singh. In 1886 Bir Shumsher uprooted the whole Narayanhiti palace and build a new palace under the master Nepalese architect Jogbir Sthapit for his son-in-law Maharajadhiraj King Prithvi Bir Bikram Shah. Thus moving the royal residence of the reigning monarch of the Kingdom of Nepal from Hanuman Dhoka Durbar to Narayanhiti Durbar

Narayanhiti Palace  in Earthquake of 1934

During the 1934 Nepal–Bihar earthquake Narayanhity Palace was partially damaged killing two infant Princess, daughters Princess of King Tribhuvan. Repair and renovation work was done under Colonel Engineer Surya Jung Thapa and a new Portico and Grand Staircase were built.

Current Narayanhiti Palace museum 

In 1963, King Mahendra ordered the demolition of the old palace and the construction of the new palace. The new palace was built in Nepalese architecture style under the design of Californian architect Benjamin Polk, who operated out of India at the time. The decade-long construction of the palace ended in 1969. The Griha Prabes in the new palace was done on the occasion of the Hindu wedding ceremony of Prince Birendra the then-heir apparent to the throne on 27 February 1970.

 Opening Hours of Narayanhiti Palace

Wednesday – Monday  – 11.00am – 4.00pm

Tuesday  –    Closed (It remains closed on public holidays too.)

Narayanhiti Palace Museum Ticket Fee

The entrance fee for  Nepali Students is  NPR 20 , where students need to carry an identity card, NPR 100  for all other  Nepali Citizens . Moreover, the entry fee for  SAARC and Chinese Nationals  is  NPR 250  and  NPR 500  for all  other foreigners .

Know about Heritage Site Entry fee

Narayanhiti Palace Museum in google Map

Note: Taking pictures and videos inside the Narayanhiti Museum is strictly prohibited. You can take photos and videos from outside the palace building from the garden and parking space but not inside the building.

Late King Birendra’s private house Shree Sadan open for Public

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