Gorkha Durbar, also known as Gorkha Palace, is a historic palace situated in the town of Gorkha in central Nepal. The palace was built in the 17th century by King Ram Shah of the Shah dynasty and was the seat of power for the Kingdom of Gorkha until the mid-19th century. The palace is now a major tourist attraction and is considered a symbol of Nepalese culture and history.
The Gorkha Durbar is situated on top of a hill and is surrounded by beautiful views of the Himalayas and the town of Gorkha. The palace is built in a traditional Nepalese style, with white-washed walls, intricately carved wooden windows, and pagoda-style roofs. The palace is divided into three sections, each with its own distinct architecture and design.
The first section of the palace, known as the main palace, is the oldest and most significant part of the palace. The main palace is made up of several buildings, including the king's palace, the queen's palace, and the royal court. The King's Palace is the largest and most ornate building in the complex, with beautiful wooden carvings and traditional Nepalese artwork adorning the walls and ceilings.
The second section of the palace is known as the temple complex and is home to several Hindu temples dedicated to various deities. The most important temple in the complex is the temple of Gorakhnath, which is believed to have been built in the 16th century. The temple is dedicated to Gorakhnath, a Hindu saint and yogi who is believed to have founded the Nath tradition of yoga.
The third section of the palace is the residential area, which was once home to the royal family and their attendants. The residential area is made up of several buildings, including the royal stables, the guardhouse, and the servants' quarters. The buildings in the residential area are simpler in design than those in the main palace, but they are still decorated with traditional Nepalese artwork and carvings.
Visitors to the Gorkha Durbar can explore the palace and its surrounding gardens and learn about the history and culture of the Kingdom of Gorkha. The palace is also a popular destination for trekkers, who often stop in Gorkha on their way to the nearby Manaslu Conservation Area.
One of the most interesting aspects of the Gorkha Durbar is its role in Nepalese history. The palace was the seat of power for the Kingdom of Gorkha, which was one of the most powerful and influential kingdoms in Nepal during the 17th and 18th centuries. The founder of the kingdom, King Prithvi Narayan Shah, was born in Gorkha and lived in the palace as a child. He later went on to conquer much of modern-day Nepal and establish the Shah dynasty, which ruled Nepal until the mid-20th century.
Today, the Gorkha Durbar is a symbol of Nepalese culture and history and is an important tourist destination in the country. The palace is also used for cultural events and festivals, including the annual Gorkha festival, which celebrates the town's history and culture.
The Gorkha Durbar is a beautiful and historic palace that is an important part of Nepalese culture and history. The palace's ornate architecture, beautiful artwork, and stunning views of the Himalayas make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting Nepal. Whether you're a history buff, a cultural enthusiast, or simply looking for a beautiful place to visit, the Gorkha Durbar is an excellent choice.
photo credit: Wikipedia, forevernepal
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