Sightseeing · Gorkha
Gorkha Durbar
The hilltop fort, palace and temple of the Shah kings, reached by a steep stair climb above Gorkha town.
- Rating
- ★ 4.6 (700)
- Price
- $
- Address
- Gorkha Durbar, Gorkha, Gandaki Province
Gorkha Durbar is the hilltop fort, palace and temple complex that crowns the ridge above Gorkha town. It is the founding seat of the Shah dynasty — the birthplace of Prithvi Narayan Shah and the launchpad of the campaign that unified Nepal — which makes the climb as much a pilgrimage into the nation's history as a sightseeing trip.
What to expect
The Durbar is reached by a steep flight of stone steps from the town, a walk of roughly half an hour to forty-five minutes. At the top you will find carved palace buildings and active Hindu temples, set on a ridge that opens out to wide valley and Himalayan views on a clear day.
Good to know
- The climb: Steep stone steps with little shade — start early, wear shoes with grip and carry water.
- Respect: The temples within are active places of worship, so dress modestly and follow any signs about photography and footwear.
- Nearby: Pair the climb with the Gorkha Museum below the palace, then read our roundup of the best things to do in Gorkha to plan the rest of your visit.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the Gorkha Durbar?+
It is the hilltop fort, palace and temple complex above Gorkha town, the founding seat of the Shah dynasty. This is where Prithvi Narayan Shah was born and where he launched the campaign that unified Nepal, making it one of the country's most historically important sites.
How do you get up to the Gorkha Durbar?+
The Durbar is reached on foot by a steep flight of stone steps from Gorkha town. The climb takes most visitors around half an hour to forty-five minutes. Go early to avoid the midday heat and carry water, as there is little shade on the way up.
Is there an entry fee for the Gorkha Durbar?+
Any charge is modest, and the main effort is the uphill climb rather than the cost. Carry small notes for the entry and for offerings if you visit the temples within the complex.
What can you see from the Gorkha Durbar?+
On a clear day the ridge gives wide views over the surrounding valleys and out to the Himalaya, including peaks of the Manaslu and Annapurna ranges. The complex itself holds carved palace buildings and active Hindu temples, so dress respectfully.