Gorkha Durbar | Gorkha

Gorkha Durbar is a historic fortified palace complex located in the Gorkha District of Nepal. Situated on a sharp ridge at an altitude of approximately 1,450 meters, it serves as a monumental site of Newari architecture and a focal point of the Shah dynasty's history.

Visual Characteristics

The complex is a strategic blend of a fortress, a palace, and a temple. It is constructed primarily of red brick and intricately carved wood, characteristic of the 17th-century Malla and Shah architectural styles. The windows and struts are adorned with deities and mythical creatures. The site offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the Trishuli Valley and the Annapurna, Manaslu, and Ganesh Himal mountain ranges.

Location & Access Logistics

The site is located in Gorkha Municipality, approximately 140 km west of Kathmandu and 100 km east of Pokhara.

By Vehicle: Accessible via a paved road from the Prithvi Highway (Anbu Khaireni).

The Ascent: From the bottom of the hill, visitors must climb approximately 1,500 stone steps to reach the palace.

Entry: A modest entry fee is typically required for foreign nationals, while the grounds are open for pilgrims and locals.

Historical Origin

Built in the 16th century during the reign of King Ram Shah, the Durbar is the ancestral home of the Shah dynasty. It is most famous as the birthplace of King Prithvi Narayan Shah, who initiated the unification of modern Nepal in the mid-18th century. The site was significantly damaged during the 2015 earthquake but has undergone extensive restoration to preserve its structural integrity.

Key Highlights & Activities

Kalika Temple: A highly sacred shrine dedicated to the Goddess Kali. Non-Hindus are generally restricted from entering the inner sanctum but can observe the exterior.

Birthplace of Prithvi Narayan Shah: The specific room where the unifier of Nepal was born is a primary historical attraction.

Gorakhnath Cave: A cave shelter dedicated to the sage Gorakhnath, situated slightly below the main palace, where devotees receive blessings.

Dhuni Pati: A ceremonial rest house where a perpetual sacred fire is maintained.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The climb to the palace is lined with small shops selling water, snacks, and religious offerings. There are public restrooms near the base and midway up the trail. Due to the steep stone stairs, the site is not wheelchair accessible. Mobile signal (NTC/Ncell) is generally stable at the summit.

Best Time to Visit

The optimal time for a visit is from October to December or February to April, when the skies are clear, providing the best views of the Himalayas. Early morning is recommended to avoid the midday heat during the steep climb and to witness morning rituals at the Kalika Temple.

Facts & Legends

Legend states that the sage Gorakhnath appeared to the young Prithvi Narayan Shah at this site and predicted he would conquer every land he could see from the ridge. Another tradition involves the "Gorkhali" name itself, derived from "Go-Raksha" (Protector of Cows), reflecting the religious significance of the local guardian deity.

Nearby Landmarks

Gorkha Museum – 2.0 km (at the foot of the hill)

Tallo Durbar (Lower Palace) – 1.8 km Southwest

Manakamana Temple – 24 km (accessible via cable car from Kurintar)

Ligligkot – 15 km West (historic site of the race to choose a king)