Nuwakot durbar is the historical palace located at the 76 km far west northern region of the Kathmandu valley. Before the unification of Nepal, Nuwakot used to be the western main gate to enter the valley. IT was the main route for the purpose of trade with Tibet. It is located in the central region of the country above the Trishuli and Tandi rivers. Nuwakot was also the capital of the valley before the unification of the country by King Prithvi Narayan Shah.

History of Nuwakot Durbar

Nuwakot durbar was built around the 18th century by the Malla King. But the current seven-story Nuwakot palace and surrounding structures were built by King Prithvi Narayan Shah after conquering the Nuwakot district from the Malla kings. He hired the labourers from Lalitpur to expand the structures which are still regarded as the finest model of architecture in the history of Nepal. The structures were expanded in order to support the trade with India and Tibet. The main palace is made in the Malla style, the architecture of the palace is divided into the main palace, the Bhairab temple, and other temples and shrines.

The most prominent features of this palace is the seven-story palace and the Bhairab temple. The other structures around here are stone inscription, Taleju goddess and Taleju Bhawani.There is the west facing palace here known as the ”RANGAMAHAL” made up of oily bricks for the purpose of recreational spot for the three Malla kings of Kathmandu valley. There are some cultural festivals which are still celebrated here such as Sindure Jatra, Narayan Jatra, Gai Jatra, Shipai Jatra, Devi Jatra, Lakhe dance , Fulpati and Krishna Janmashtami.  In 2008 this place was submitted for consideration as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  The earthquake of 2015 has damaged most of the interiors of the palace. But the visitors can still roam around the outside of the palace.

Nuwakot durbar is the historical palace of Nepal we can enjoy the finest architectures and handicrafts of the Nepal. We can observe the ancient arts and cultures of Malla kings and enjoy ourselves with the arts and architecture.

INFORMATION

We can reach Trishuli bazar from the regular bus service from Kathmandu within 3-4 hours. We can also hire a cab or take our own vehicle.