Nestled in the serene landscapes of eastern Nepal, the Hilihang Durbar stands as a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of the Limbuwan region. Located in Ward No. 4 of Hilihang Rural Municipality, Panchthar District, Koshi Province, this historic palace offers visitors a glimpse into the legacy of the last Limbuwan king, Hilihang Yonghang.

King Hilihang Yonghang, born on Kartika 18, 1783 BS (Bikram Sambat), ascended the throne at the age of 21 in 1814 BS. He ruled the Yangwarak Thum under Bijaypur for 28 years, until 1842 BS. During his reign, he fortified his kingdom, leading his army to numerous victories against external forces. Notably, his forces remained undefeated in 17 confrontations with the Gorkha King Prithvi Narayan Shah’s army.

On Shrawan 22, 1831 BS, King Hilihang facilitated Nepal’s unification by granting self-governance rights over Yangwarak Thum to the central government. Following his sudden death in 1842 BS, Yangwarak Thum was fully integrated into Nepal, marking the end of the Limbuwan monarchy. Today, the Hilihang Durbar stands in ruins, serving as a poignant reminder of this significant chapter in Nepalese history.

Perched at an elevation of approximately 1,900 meters above sea level, the Hilihang Durbar offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. The palace grounds provide panoramic vistas of the Pathibhara Temple and the majestic Kumbhakarna Mountain Range. These vantage points make it an ideal spot for witnessing both sunrise and sunset, offering visitors a tranquil and picturesque experience.

According to myRepublica, Recognizing its historical importance, the Government of Nepal’s Archaeology Department has listed the Hilihang Palace as a significant historical site. Efforts are underway to preserve and promote the palace as a tourist destination. Infrastructure development projects have been initiated, including the installation of two full-body statues of King Hilihang. These initiatives aim to honor the legacy of the Limbuwan monarchy and attract visitors to the region.

For those interested in exploring the rich history of the Limbuwan region, a visit to the Hilihang Durbar is a must. The site offers:

Historical Insights: Learn about the Limbuwan kingdom and its integration into modern Nepal.
Scenic Beauty: Enjoy panoramic views of the Pathibhara Temple and Kumbhakarna Mountain Range.
Cultural Significance: Experience the heritage of the Limbu community and their contributions to Nepal’s history.

As efforts continue to restore and develop the palace complex, the Hilihang Durbar is poised to become a prominent cultural and historical attraction in eastern Nepal.

Image Sources:

CP Dhakal: Foundation-1-1024×572.jpg (1024×572)
MyRepublica: Hilihang Palace being developed as tourist destination – myRepublica – The New York Times Partner, Latest news of Nepal in English, Latest News Articles | Republica
Nepal Archives: Hilihang Rural Municipality Profile | Facts & Statistics – Nepal Archives

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