Gorkha Historical Day Tour From Kathmandu, Nepal

Kathmandu , Nepal

Gorkha Historical Day Tour From Kathmandu, Nepal

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10h

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About this experience

We bring you the ancient history of Nepal before you. As history tells that the Nepal that you see now was due to a single person “Prithvi Narayan Shah”. He started his journey in Gorkha. On this tour to Gorkha and the history of Gorkha, you will visit the most interesting site of Gorkha which is the Gorkha museum and Gorkha durbar. The museum is a Newari-style palace that has a collection of art, crafts, and historical items with 3.5 hectares of garden. And the next attraction is a palace, fort, and temple all in one. It is the Gorkha Durbar situated at a high point ridge, the view from the durbar is breathtaking. So be sure to pick this amazing Gorkha Historical Tour to know more about Nepal and its history including the culture, art, and architectural integrity.

Available options

Gorkha Historical Day Tour

Duration: 10 hours<br/>Private Vehicle<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

All Fees and Taxes

Tour Guide

Hotel Pick up and drop

Detailed itinerary

Visitors to Nepal often confess they have never heard of the name “Gorkha”. Yet for years, the ancient name for Nepal was “Gorkhana”, reflecting the union of the nation in the 1760s by Gorkha’s King Prithvi Narayan Shah. His conquest of the nation introduced a common language as well as developing a united culture.

The City of Gorkha was his starting point. Situated on a high hill overlooking a fertile green valley is his castle/fortress which afforded the king an expansive view of his surroundings. To the north are the impressive snowcapped Himalayas, with its crown jewel being Mt. Manaslu, the 8th highest mountain in the world. You can get a chance to visit the Gorkha Museum where you can see ancient metals, coins, weapons and late royal families of Gorkha.

Stop 2

The morning sun rises over the city of Gorkha. Situated on a high hill overlooking the rivers and fields below, it stands as a sentinel protecting all the eye can see. In ancient times, its kings were the ones to fear. And from their loins came a great king in the 1700s who conquered the entire country of Nepal, thereby keeping it from being a British colony.

The city of Gorkha was the capital for King Prithvi Narayan Shah. A warrior king he, with his sword, united the hundreds of tiny kingdoms that dotted Nepal in the mid-1700s. The king had a vision as well as the courage and leadership skills to assert his dominance over a strong-willed people.

The city of Gorkha is built on the top of a high hill that affords a commanding view of its surroundings in all directions. At the pinnacle is Gorkha Durbar, the great fortress of the king. Here he could wake up and survey his surroundings. To the north are the snow-covered peaks of the Himalayas. Its crown jewel is Mt. Manaslu, rising to an elevation of 8,163 meters (26,781 ft.). Its name means “spirit mountain” and was worshipped by the Tibetans as a god. To the west and south were amazingly fertile valleys which are well watered by fast-flowing mountain rivers.

The Gorkha Historical Tour will take you to the top to see the fortress, palace and holy site that is the pride of the people. You will marvel at how they built such a fortress on land that is so steep. In the city below, walk the flagstone streets. Take time to visit the national museum which will detail the amazing history of Nepal’s mightiest king, who’s family ruled until 2008.

The devastating earthquake of 2015 has affected the Gorkha Durbar and reconstruction is going on.

What's not included

Food and Drinks

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Kathmandu

Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is a vibrant blend of ancient history, rich culture, and stunning Himalayan scenery. Known as the 'City of Temples,' it's home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the iconic Swayambhunath Stupa and Pashupatinath Temple. The city offers a unique mix of traditional Newari architecture, bustling markets, and modern urban life.

Top Attractions

Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)

One of the most iconic landmarks in Kathmandu, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a Buddhist stupa perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. It's also home to many monkeys, hence the nickname.

Religious/Historical 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Pashupatinath Temple

One of the most sacred Hindu temples in the world, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, it's a major pilgrimage site with a lively atmosphere, especially during festivals.

Religious 2-3 hours Free for Hindus, NPR 1000 (USD 8) for non-Hindus

Boudhanath Stupa

One of the largest stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Boudhanath is a major center for Tibetan Buddhism. The surrounding area is filled with monasteries, shops, and cafes, creating a vibrant cultural hub.

Religious/Historical 2-3 hours Free (donations welcome)

Kathmandu Durbar Square

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic square is the heart of the old city and features ancient palaces, temples, and courtyards. It's a living museum showcasing the city's rich history and Newari architecture.

Historical/Architectural 1-2 hours NPR 1000 (USD 8) for foreigners

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Located in the ancient city of Bhaktapur, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a well-preserved example of Newari architecture. It features beautiful temples, palaces, and courtyards, offering a glimpse into Nepal's royal history.

Historical/Architectural Half-day trip NPR 1500 (USD 12) for foreigners

Must-Try Local Dishes

Dal Bhat

A staple meal consisting of lentil soup (dal), rice (bhat), and vegetable curry (tarkari). Often served with pickles, salad, and sometimes meat.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian (can be made vegan by omitting ghee)

Momo

Steamed or fried dumplings filled with meat (buffalo, chicken, or pork) or vegetables, served with a spicy tomato-based sauce.

Snack/Appetizer Vegetarian options available, can be made vegan

Sel Roti

A sweet, ring-shaped fried bread made from rice flour, sugar, and water, often served during festivals and celebrations.

Snack/Dessert Vegetarian (may contain eggs in some recipes)

Gundruk

A fermented leafy green vegetable, often cooked with spices and served as a side dish or added to soups and stews.

Side Dish Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free

Popular Activities

Trekking Mountain biking Paragliding Rafting Yoga and meditation retreats Spa treatments Café hopping Gardening

Best Time to Visit

October to November and March to April

These months offer pleasant weather, clear skies, and excellent visibility for trekking and sightseeing. The city is lively with festivals and cultural events.

20-30°C (68-86°F) 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Nepali
Widely spoken: English, Hindi, Newari, Maithili, Bhojpuri
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Nepalese Rupee (NPR)

Time Zone

Nepal Standard Time (NPT, UTC+5:45)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Kathmandu is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime, scams, and pickpocketing can occur, especially in tourist areas and crowded markets. Be cautious of your surroundings, keep valuables secure, and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators and trekking agencies
• Insist on using the meter when taking taxis
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Tribhuvan International Airport • 5 km (3 miles) from city center

By bus

Galkopul, Kalanki

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport, but they can be crowded and slow. Microbuses are smaller and more frequent.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Pathao, InDriver

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Thamel Boudha Patan (Lalitpur) Bhaktapur

Day trips

Nagarkot

32 km (20 miles) from Kathmandu • Half-day to full-day trip

A picturesque hill station known for its stunning views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest on clear days. Nagarkot is also famous for its sunrise and sunset views.

Dhulikhel

30 km (19 miles) from Kathmandu • Half-day to full-day trip

A charming Newari town offering beautiful views of the Himalayas and historic temples. Dhulikhel is less touristy than Nagarkot but equally scenic.

Changunarayan

18 km (11 miles) from Kathmandu • Half-day trip

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Changunarayan is one of the oldest Hindu temples in the Kathmandu Valley and is known for its intricate stone and wood carvings.

Festivals

Dashain • September/October (dates vary each year) Tihar • October/November (dates vary each year) Indra Jatra • September (dates vary each year)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Nepali phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Hire a local guide or join a group tour for a more immersive and informative experience, especially when visiting temples and historical sites
Carry small denominations of Nepalese Rupees for small purchases and tips, as change may be limited
Be prepared for power outages and slow internet, especially during peak hours and in rural areas
Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, as the high altitude and intense sunlight can cause dehydration and sunburn