The Gorkha Kingdom, located in modern-day western Nepal, was one of the 24 Khas nations that formed the Chaubisi Rajya confederation. It was geographically divided from neighboring Nepal and Lamjung by the Trishuli River in the east and the Marshyangdi River in the west. Prince Dravya Shah, the second son of King Yasho Brahma Shah of Lamjung, established the kingdom in 1559 CE by displacing the Khandka chiefs, becoming the first King of Gorkha.

Legend traces the Shah lineage to Rishi-raj Rana-Ji of the Lunar dynasty, who was once king of Chittorgarh. After thirteen generations, Muslim Yavanas took control, leaving the Rana-Ji family name intact. Later generations were known as Rana-Ji and Rana-Ji Rava. In the 16th century, Mughal emperor Akbar attempted to marry the daughter of Fatte Sinha Rana-Ji Rava, but was rejected due to religious differences. The conflict that followed led to the death of many Rajputs, including Fatte Sinha. Survivors, led by Udaybam Rana-Ji Rava, established Udaipur as their new home.

The dynasty continued in Nepal, beginning with Micha in Nuwakot. Kulamandan Shah, eldest son of Jagdeva of Kaski, deposed the Gurung king and succeeded his father. Dravya Shah, Yasobramha’s second son, subjugated the Ghale inhabitants of Ligligkot and displaced the Khandka chiefs, solidifying his rule as the first monarch of the Gorkha Kingdom.

The Gorkha Durbar, a palace built in the 17th century by King Ram Shah, became the royal residence and remains a symbol of Gorkha’s heritage. It is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The palace is also the birthplace of King Prithvi Narayan Shah, the founder of modern Nepal. Today, the Gorkha Museum within the royal complex showcases the history and culture of the kingdom. Road access connects Gorkha town to Kathmandu, approximately 140 km west.

Essential Travel Information & Administrative Details

Location & Municipality: Gorkha District, Gandaki Province
Local Government Website: gorkhamun.gov.np
Municipal Info Officer Contact: +977-65-520166 (सूचना अधिकारी, Gorkha Municipality Office)
Altitude: Approx. 1,135m (3,720 ft)
Best Time to Visit: October–November for clear skies and festivals; March–May for mild weather and rhododendron bloom
Nearby Landmarks: Ligligkot, Manaslu Himal, Annapurna

The Gorkha Kingdom is not only the birthplace of modern Nepal but also a living testament to centuries of history, culture, and resilience. From the legendary rise of Dravya Shah to the grandeur of the Gorkha Durbar, it remains a destination where heritage and landscape converge. For travelers, Gorkha offers a chance to walk through the corridors of Nepal’s unification story while enjoying panoramic views of the Himalayas.

If you’re planning for Trekking, for trekking routes and permit details, explore Trekking in Nepal and Nepal Travel Permits.

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Sophie Dupont
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Majestic historical hill palace fort overlooking the Gorkha valley. The ancient royal rooms and Gorakhnath cave are fascinating.

1 month ago
Ram Chandra Pant
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King Prithvi Narayan Shah ko birthplace fortress. Ridge top bata Manaslu Himal ra Marsyangdi valley ko 360-degree view opening hunchha.

2 months ago

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