Historic Site in Gorkha District, Gandaki Province, Gandaki, Gandaki
Gorkha Durbar (Gorkha Palace)
The ancestral fortress-palace of the Shah dynasty, perched atop a steep hill in Gorkha town (2 hours east of Pokhara), birthplace of King Prithvi Narayan Shah who unified Nepal in the 18th century. The palace complex includes the Kalika Temple (one of Nepal's most powerful Shaktipeeths) and commands breathtaking views of the Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, and Himalchuli ranges. A UNESCO Tentative List site and essential destination for Nepali history.
Hours: Daily 9:00am - 5:00pm
Best time: October-November for clearest mountain views
Best for: history, culture, photography
Location
Gorkha Hill, Gorkha, Gorkha District
28.0038, 84.6307 — View on map
Tips
- The climb up to the palace takes 30-45 minutes of steep stone steps - wear good shoes.
- Non-Hindus cannot enter the inner Kalika Temple but can view the exterior.
- Combine with a visit to Gorkha Museum at the base of the hill.
- From Pokhara, take a tourist bus or private jeep (2-2.5 hours).