Gorkha

Gorkha is a historic town in Gandaki Province, the ancestral home of the Shah dynasty that unified Nepal in the 18th century. Perched on a ridge at 1,090 m, the town is dominated by the magnificent Gorkha Durbar (palace), a hilltop fortress that offers panoramic views of the Himalayas and the surrounding valleys. Gorkha is also the namesake of the legendary Gurkha soldiers and a rich cultural centre with deep historical significance.

The climate is subtropical hill climate with warm summers, a monsoon (June–September), and cool winters. The best time to visit is October–March.

By Plane

The nearest airport is at Kathmandu (KTM). A taxi from Kathmandu to Gorkha costs Rs 5000–7000 (4 hours).

By Train

No train service.

By Car / Road

Gorkha is 140 km west of Kathmandu (4 hours by bus). Buses from Kathmandu's Gongabu Bus Park (Rs 400–800) run daily.

The town is walkable, though the climb to the durbar requires a steep uphill walk.

• Gorkha Durbar – The 16th-century hilltop palace of the Shah kings, with museums, temples, and stunning mountain views.
• Kalika Temple – A temple atop the same ridge as the durbar, with far-reaching views.
• Gorkha Bazaar – Traditional market town.
• Gurkha Museum – Exhibits on the history of Gurkha soldiers.

Explore the Gorkha Durbar complex. Take a day hike to nearby viewpoints.

• Gorkha Hotel Restaurant – Nepali and Newari dishes.
• Local dal bhat shops – Rs 200–400.

Tea shops. Bottled water recommended.

• Budget: Gorkha Lodge – Rs 500–1000.
• Mid-range: Hotel Gorkha, +977 64-420004 – Rs 1500–3000.

Local produce and handicrafts.

• Pokhara (80 km west) – Adventure capital.
• Kathmandu (140 km east) – Capital city.
• Bandipur (50 km east) – Preserved Newari hill town.
• Manaslu Conservation Area (60 km north) – Trekking region.