Narayanhiti Palace: From Royal Residency to Museum

Once a royal palace, Narayanhiti Palace has been converted into a museum and is recorded to have welcomed 4.77 million visitors between 2008 and 2025.

Around Narayanhiti Palace, there are several cafes, shops, and a lot of traffic. But as you walk along the Durbarmarg sidewalk, the amazing architecture of this palace immediately mesmerizes you!

The palace's name originates from two words, ‘Narayan’ and ‘Hiti’. “Narayan” is the Hindu god Lord Vishnu, whose temple is located near the palace, and ‘hiti’ means water spout, which is situated just opposite of the temple, across the road.

Once the home of the Shah monarchs, Narayanhiti Palace has seen various historical events of modern Nepal, including the Royal Massacre and the People's Movement II of 2006.

After exploring Narayanhiti myself (from the main palace and Phohora Garden to Tribhuvan Sadan and Shree Sadan), I discovered several facts and stories that might completely change your view on the palace.

From the day of Kaji Dhokal Singh Basnet's private residence to the present-day museum, Narayanhiti Palace has been witness to major political movements in the history of Nepal.

Before we move on with the history details, check this timeline for quick reference:

Early Days

Dating back to 1793 A.D, the land where the present-day Narayanhiti Palace Museum is built was gifted to Kaji Dhokal Singh Basnet by King Rana Bahadur Shah. Right here, Kaji built his own palace known as Kriti Mandir.

Then, following the Kot Parva (Kot Massacre), the power and influence of noble families like the Basnets were destroyed. And the Rana elites' political takeover resulted in the confiscation of this property. 

As a result, Colonel Ranodip Singh used the property for his private residence after a few renovations. After his assassination in 1885 A.D., Bir Shumsher became prime minister and rebuilt the palace acoording to the design of Jogbir Sthapit.

Bir Shumsher established a close alliance with the royal family by arranging the marriage of his two daughters to King Prithivi Bir Bikram Shah. After that, the Shah monarch shifted from the palace in Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Square to Narayanhiti Palace.

Design and Construction of the Modern Palace

The previously built palace was partially damaged in the Nepal-Bihar earthquake of 1934 A.D. Moreover, King Tribhuvan lost his two baby princesses in this tragic event.

Under the order of King Tribhuvan (designed by Nepali Architect Surya Jung Thapa), Tribhuvan Sadan was built in 1936 A.D. with a new Portico and Grand Staircase. This is where the royal family started to reside!

After King Mahendra ascended the throne on March 13, 1955, he ordered the modernization of the previous palace and some other Rana palaces, making way for a grand boulevard now popularly known as Durbarmarg (King's Way).

With the design of American Architect Benjamin Polk, King Mahendra started the construction of the new Narayanhiti Palace in 1963 A.D, which was completed in 1969 A.D. This palace served as the official royal residence until the abolishment of the 240-year-old monarchy in 2008 A.D.

The Royal Massacre

On the night of June 1, 2001 A.D., the tragic royal massacre occured during the family dinner time. King Birendra, Queen Aishwarya, Prince Nirajan, Prince Dhirendra, Princess Shruti, Princess Sharada, Kumar Kahadga, and other members of the royal family lost their lives.

Prince Dipendra had a gunshot wound to his head and had fallen into a coma. Shortly after being declared king of Nepal, Dipendra died on June 4, 2001 A.D.

While many conspiracy theories revolve around the royal massacre, none of these theories has been legally proved. These theories are based on political motives, inside-palace conspiracies, and external assassination theories. 

Recently, Home Minister Sudan Gurung officially declared the reopening of the investigation into the 2001 Royal Massacre. But the recent update in August states that the investigation has been halted due to uncertainty about who, either Nepal Police or a separate commission, will conduct it.

Hopefully, the officials will start as soon as possible and bring final closure to what really happened on that tragic night.

Present Day Narayanhiti Palace Museum

After the success of the People's Movement II of 2006 A.D., Nepal officially became a Federal Democratic Republic in 2008 A.D., abolishing Nepal’s monarchy. King Gyanendra was the last king of Nepal and had to vacate Narayanhiti Palace on June 11, 2008 A.D.

After being declared as the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, Narayanhiti Palace was converted into the Narayanhiti Palace Museum. The then Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala inaugurated the transition of the palace into a museum on June 15, 2008 A.D. 

Later, former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal officially opened the museum for public display on February 26, 2009 A.D.

Feeling curious about how to visit the Narayanhiti Palace Museum and witness the history of Nepal's Shah Kings?

Before stepping into the Narayanhiti Palace Museum, the ticket counter is going to be your first checkpoint. After a brief interaction with the counter attendant, the ticket is issued, and quick guidance is provided.

Ticket payment can be done through both cash and online methods as per one’s convenience.

And if you seek a proper guided exploration of Narayanhiti Palace Museum, you can always contact our team at Altitude Himalaya! We promise to arrange an experienced, government-licensed guide for you who will stay with you throughout this Narayanhiti visit for a deeper and more insightful experience.

About the entry fee for the museum:

Note: ​For children under 9 years and senior citizens above 70 years of Nepalese nationality, the entrance fee is free.

About the opening and closing times for the museum, here’s the updated information as of August 2026:

​Note: The Narayanhiti Museum Palace remains closed on Tuesday and Wednesday and during other public holidays.

I used to see Narayanhiti Palace Museum every day when drinking coffee from different rooftop restaurants in Durbarmarg. The idea of visiting the palace always crossed my mind until one day, when I finally got the chance.

As I walked past the security gate, the noise from the busy street and heavy traffic slowly faded. I was amazed by the well-groomed garden and the Gaurishankar Gate, carved with with intricate wood carving and decorative metalwork.

Exterior Features and Architectural Aesthetics

The Narayanhiti Palace, with a unique blend of traditional Nepali and modern style, was designed by American architect Benjamin Polk. 

The pink terracotta architecture with the rich texture of the local brick and stone cladding of the Narayanhiti Palace Museum speaks of a political statement and the domination of the Shahs over the Ranas. The palace design blends in perfectly with the Kathmandu Valley landscapes.

When you pass the front lawn, you will arrive in front of the palace’s 45-foot-wide stairs, which are designed with the black stone sculptures of fish, dancing peacocks, horses, elephants, and lion-like structures. All these structures represent swiftness, wisdom, endurance, reliability, and royalty, respectively.

When you finish climbing those steps, the 20-foot-high Gaurishankar Gate with detailed wooden carvings, motifs, and many other design symbols that are said to bring good luck will be in front of your eyes.

Note that this is the only gate to enter the palace museum for visitors.

Interior Design and Royal Decor

As I walked through the Gaurishankar Gate, I was surprised by the interior of the palace. It was influenced by the late Victorian architecture, leaving a remarkable impression. 

The palace interior is still in preserved condition, so I got to visualize what life was like for the monarch who used to live here.

The inside of the palace is filled with wild animal taxidermy, for example, the Bengal tigers that are displayed here as trophies! There are also portraits of kings and beautiful chandeliers around.

Each room contains diplomatic gifts and timeless artifacts from different dignitaries. Such gifts and artifacts represent Nepal's rich culture and heritage.

Narayanhiti Palace is divided into three wings:

• A private wing (eastern part)
• A state wing (central part)
• A guest wing (western part)

Each room is named after a district of Nepal, such as Sadan or Baithak, representing the country’s unique topography.

Visiting the Narayanhiti Palace, I realized that its exterior architecture is not the only factor that makes this landmark so special. But the interior design, which is equally captivating, makes this palace a national identity.

During my visit, I continued admiring the architecture of Narayanhiti Palace and it felt as if the palace had frozen in time. Observing each corner of the palace, I kept getting impressed by its striking details.

Well, the main attractions of this place are its various rooms, artifacts, and buildings. Each holds its own designated meaning and significance. Allow me to explain about them, and I’ll also share my own personal story of my recent visit here.

Rooms and Their Significance

Within the Narayanhiti Palace, there are 52 rooms. Each room has its own purpose. 

These rooms are uniquely named after districts of Nepal. While the palace contains 52 rooms, only 32 rooms are available for public viewing as of now. Among 32, Tribhuvan Sadan is also considered one, and the others are meeting rooms and designated rooms.

Sadan refers to a house or palace wing, while Baithak refers to a meeting room or reception room.

As I continued to explore the museum, I realized each room in this palace had its own story to tell. 

Among many rooms and displayed items, the ones that stand out more as the major attractions of the palace and have a deep connection with the royal family are below:

Kaski Baithak

As you walk through the Gaurishankar Gate, Kaski Sadan comes into view, the hall that once served as the palace’s primary reception. 

During my own visit, the two full-sized stuffed Bengal tigers (hunted by Kings Mahendra and Birendra) and life-sized portraits of the Shah Monarchs (King Pratap Singh Shah, Prithvi Narayan Shah, Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah, and Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah), painted by artist Amar Chitrakar, left me with lasting impressions.

Kaski Baithak served as the receiving place for the visiting Heads of State, for the oath-taking ceremonies of the Prime Minister and the Chief Justice, and for other significant functions. The Shah Monarchs also used this hall as a formal meeting room with the politicians.

Gorkha Baithak

Another masterpiece of the palace, Gorkha Baithak, stands out for its unique architecture. The remarkable aesthetic and decorative chandelier elevates the beauty of this Baithak.

The 60-foot-high pagoda ceiling, supported by four concrete columns, represents Nagas. The columns are decorated with paintings of Hindu guardian demigods, the Asta Matrikas and Asta Bhairavas.

One of the major artifacts of the palace, the Royal Throne, which is 8 feet tall, 4 feet wide, and 6 feet in length, is also located in this hall.

Furthermore, Gorkha Baithak was used for the coronation ceremony, announcement of the prince's coming of age, presentation of credentials, national celebrations, and royal ceremonies.

This meeting room is where King Birendra announced the Constitution of the Kingdom of Nepal 2047 B.S. (1990 A.D.).

Dhanusha Baithak

After exploring various sadans, you can enter Dhanusha Baithak, which is located on the ground floor, and it’s another mesmerizing room of the palace.

You’ll even see a collection of medals displayed inside the Dhanusa Baithak that represent royal honor. Alongside these medals, you get to see portraits of Shah Queens in their official attire, elevating the elegance of the Baithak.

As far as I’ve learned, the different attire worn by different queens in the portraits shows evolution in Nepal’s culture and royal traditions over time.

During Vijaya Dashami, Dhanusha Baithak used to serve as a venue for offering tika to high-ranking government and military officials. The king used to present medals in this room, honoring their services and dedication.

Right after the entrance, you will also see the door named Pyuthan, which served as the film hall for the royal family. Previously open to the public, this room was closed due to security reasons.

Moreover, the hallway from Rolpa Sadan to Baitiadi Sadan features various photographs of historical personalities. These photographs include King Mahendra and King Birendra with visiting heads of state and their families.

The Royal Crown

The moment I walked into Rupandehi Sadan, it was the Royal Crown, aka 'Shreepech', that caught my attention immediately!

The Royal Crown, along with the Queen's Tiara embedded with 943 lotus diamonds, Ceremonial Gold & Silver Mace, Shield made of rhino skins, and Royal Sword, is displayed inside bulletproof glass. These artifacts stun and impress every visitor when they enter the room.

In the detailed description in front of the crown, you will find that the royal crown is covered with precious gemstones: 730 diamonds, 2372 pearls, 47 emeralds, and 16 rubies. The base of the crown is made up of pure gold and silver, showing the perfect result of craftsmanship.

The crown is decorated with beautiful feathers of the “bird of paradise”. Lore has it that those attractive feathers are of a legendary, mythical creature, the Humayun Bird, a.k.a. Huma bird. It was more than a ceremonial ornament that symbolizes monarchy and royal authority.

Following the abolition of the monarchy in 2008, the royal crown is now state property and preserved under the care of the government of Nepal. 

Tribhuvan Sadan

Passing through the palace exit and following the passage, I arrived at the ruins of Tribhuvan Sadan, which was once known as Happy Cottage.

To give you more context: Queen Mother Ratna Rajya Lakshmi ordered the demolition of Tribhuvan Sadan, as it reminded her of the tragic night of June 1, 2001 A.D. However, this sparked a massive backlash as it fueled another conspiracy that the monarch had deliberately destroyed the key evidence.

For years, the site was just an open ground with brick foundations and outline markers. But today, major foundations have been partially rebuilt using old blueprints, and it’s open to visitors who wish to witness the memories of that tragic night.

I peeked through the window of the Billiard Hall and felt a cold breeze running down my spine. The room, filled with silence, felt horrifying as it marked the place where King Birendra and his family had lost their lives.

The room is dark, and you can see a pool table inside the place where the infamous Royal Massacre (or Durbar Hatyakanda) occurred. You can also see the bullet marks on the walls (outside) of the buildings where Prince Nirajan was killed.

Royal Garden (Fohara Garden)

After the Tribhuvan Sadan, you enter the Royal Garden, also called Fohara Garden. There are many different species of trees, plants, and flowers inside the garden. 

The main feature of this garden is the water fountain in the middle, which led to the name of this garden being Fohara (fountain in the Nepali language). Near it, there is also a shrine of the Living Goddess Kumari (Kumari Mandir). 

There is also a circular steps pond under the bridge that leads to the garden. At the side of that pond, I saw a very beautiful flower species not widely seen in Nepal: the Red Spider Lily. As a plant lover myself, I was utterly shocked to see that flower in the garden!

Inside the garden, on the northwest side, there is also a SAARC Pati with 12 pillars, which works as a rest house.

During the 3rd SAARC Summit held in Nepal (November 02-04, 1987 A.D.) under the leadership of King Birendra, a retreat program was organized here for the heads of the SAARC countries on the 3rd day.

There is also a greenhouse inside the garden on the northeast side. The greenhouse is dominated by Aloe vera species along with a few other plants such as Stonecrop, Coral Senecio, etc.

While exploring the garden, you will also see the Revolving House (Ghumne Ghar) and a round ghar (Gol Ghar).

And when you are about to finish exploring, there is also another small pond, not that deep, but with the statue of a Naag (snake) in it.

After exiting Fohora Garden, you can get to the Badame Chaur through Putali Gate, where the planes and helicopters are placed, and then go to the Shree Sadan.

Airplane HS-748

The airplane HS-748 was built on 7th December 1971 A.D. (21st Poush, 2028 B.S.) by the Government of England. This airplane was bought for 11,11,159.64 Sterling Pounds (NPR 2,67,05,545).

After being bought, the plane was used for VVIP flights under the registration 9N-RAC. Later, on 13th April, 1980, it was handed over to the Royal Nepal Military Air Force with new registration RAN-20.

After the transfer, this airplane fulfilled multiple roles, including carriage, rescues, army training, etc., during its operational years. 

This aircraft was also used for emergency medical services. It was used for delivering emergency relief supplies to India during the 2001 Gujarat earthquake and also to Pakistan during the Hindu Kush Earthquake in 2015 A.D.

This airplane served the royal family, along with other Heads of State, by providing domestic and international VVIP flights. Its last flight was during the Nepal Gorkha Earthquake in 2015, completing a total of 12,705 landings.

Following its phase-out, it was brought to the museum on 12th September 2022 and placed on display in Badame Chaur.

NA-031 ALOUETTE Helicopter

A helicopter of the Nepal Military, built on 30th November, 1981 A.D., was commissioned as a VVIP Flight in 1982 with the registration number 9N-RAF. This aircraft was handed over to the current Shree No. 11 Air Base in 1991 after getting the RAN-31 registration number.

This helicopter has made major contributions as a gunship and improvised bombing helicopter with other air missions during internal conflicts.

During different festivals and celebrations, this aircraft was used for Banner Display Flight.

One interesting link between this helicopter and the royal family is that the Shah family used it for pilot training. 

After completing a total of 17709 landings, this aircraft covered its last flight in 2015 A.D. 

Later in 2020 A.D., after its decommissioning, it was brought into the museum. And it is currently located in Badame Chaur alongside the Airplane HS-748.

The Royal Garage

After you finish admiring the aircraft displayed in Badame Chaur, you will reach the Royal Garage, where the vehicles used by the royal family are kept.

I was amazed to see a fleet of cars, including the baby cars of Dipendra and Nirajan, along with two Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman, a Ford Model T Pickup (1925), 1920s International Model S Passenger Series, and an Austin Princess Limousine (1963 Model). 

It also has the famous Daimler-Benz, gifted by Adolf Hitler to Tribhuvan Shah. This is the same car shown in a renowned old photograph where people are seen carrying it all the way to Kathmandu.

The garage holds another major attraction within the palace compound: the Golden State Coach, which is a remarkable royal carriage.

Queen Elizabeth II had gifted the Golden State Coach (Golden Baggi) to King Mahendra during her first visit to Nepal. The coach was first used during King Birendra’s coronation ceremony on February 24, 1975 A.D. Also, this coach was used during Queen Elizabeth II's second visit to Nepal.

The coach suffered severe damage during the 2015 Earthquake, after which it got repaired and kept in the cavalry of the Nepal Army until it was transferred to Narayanhiti Palace in 2021 A.D.

This rare masterpiece, which is one of the two carriages, is now open for exhibition. The second remains at Buckingham Palace, where it continues to be used on state occasions.

Shree Sadan

Shree Sadan, the residence of King Birendra, was opened to the general public nearly 20 years following a tragic royal massacre, in 2020 A.D.

As the final monument to explore at the museum, Shree Sadan appears different from the main palace. Blending Chinese and Nepali multi-roof temple style, its architecture immediately caught my attention as I walked the paved path.

When you enter the Shree Sadan Premises, you will see a big bell in front of the house that makes the house look like a temple. 

The two lion-headed statues placed on the two sides of the door of the house represent the house as a royal palace. On the other door, you will see the two pairs of dragons, one on each side, as the dwarpal (guards).

Despite being built for royalty, the simple appearance of Shree Sadan represents the simple lifestyle of King Birendra and his family.

The ground floor contains the private office of King Birendra and Queen Aishwarya, as well as the meeting room, dining room, and bar.

The second floor is the living room and the bedroom of the king and queen. There are also their portraits and the things that are left of them, lying untouched in the cabinets. 

The third floor shows the area where Young Prince Nirajan and Princess Shruti spent their childhood. The pictures of three siblings with Shruti in the middle are also hung on the wall.

Drawings by Princess Shruti on the walls of the hallway and exercise room of Prince Nirajan reflect that this family was no different from ordinary families.

​Following the royal tradition, the king and crown prince could not reside under the same roof. Thus, Birendra, after being declared crown prince, had built Shree Sadan as his private residence. 

Queen Aishwarya’s Private Garden

The private garden of Queen Aishwarya lies on the north-west side of the Shree Sadan. Before reaching the garden, you will also notice three spiral staircases glued to the back of the house. And in front, there are also three big trees shading the background of the house.

When you see the private garden of the queen, you will be impressed by the different species of flowers and plants in the garden.

In the middle of the garden, five different trees (Panchbrikshya) share the surrounding area. They are: Banyan, Peepal, Indian Gooseberry, Mango, and Champaca (Magnolia Champaca).

This garden was constructed in 1990 A.D. and completed after four years in 1994 A.D. It was used by King Birendra for holding lunch with his family.

Queen Aishwarya used to perform the Vat Savitri Brata on the night of the full moon and worship the god.

On the northeast side of the garden, there is an artificial waterfall that is said to be made according to the design choice of Queen Aishwarya herself. 

Along with it, at the north side of the garden, there is a small cascading waterfall (man-made) covered with different flowers and plants in the surroundings.

Chaturbeuha Narayan Temple

This Narayan Temple is located inside the premises of Narayanhiti Palace area, which has a significant role due to its historical and artistic aspects. The Lord Narayana worshipped in this place is also considered the world’s only historical Chaturvyuh Narayan. 

On the premises of Narayanhiti Palace, the holy shrine is located in the Vyuha form (sworoop) of Lord Vishnu.

There are four different forms of Narayana engraved in a single stone in this area. Legend has it that if special worship is offered to Shri Chaturvyuh Narayana, 21 generations of ancestors can attain spiritual liberation (Moksha)!

There are varieties of trees present on the premises of this Narayan temple, such as banyan tree, bar, peepal, shami, night jasmine, Indian gooseberry, mango, and dropping fig.

Several deities are worshipped inside the temple, such as Balaji Hanuman, Garuda, Ram, Lakshman, Siddhi Vinayak (Lord Ganesh), Pancha Kumari, Tripurasundari Devi, 18-handed Mahishasur Mardini Devi, and Shri Ajima Mata.

There is also a Bhajan Griha, or hymn-singing place, inside the temple complex, which is also considered the birthplace of Nepali classical music. It is also believed that the musical instruments were offered by the then King Mahendra to the classical music seekers of the temple in 2016 B.S. (1959/1960 A.D.).

Devotees who show respect to the four Narayans of Kathmandu (Changu Narayan, Bishanku Narayan, Shesh Narayan, and Icchangu Narayan) believe that they will be blessed with power, prosperity, security, and salvation in their lives if they also visit the Narayanhiti Narayansthan Temple.

Ganatantra Smarak (Republican Monument)

This significant attraction of the palace museum was built in memory of martyrs who lost their lives in Nepal’s democratic movements.

This monument is situated on the eastern part of the palace and stands as a symbolic representation of the beginning of the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal.

Note that this place is not open to the public currently. However, you can go around following the Narayanhiti Path and take a peek at the monument park from the outside.

There are many things placed at the top of the monument for the spectators to observe. A relief map of the country is also placed in the middle of the monument with four special pillars dedicated to those who sacrificed their lives during the 2006 People’s Movement.

A book-like stone structure is also present inside the monument, representing the Federal Republic Constitution of Nepal.

The insides of the monument exhibit photographs from different timelines, which represent Nepal’s democratic movements.

On 27th March, 2012, the former Prime Minister Dr. Ram Babu Bhattarai laid the foundational stone for the monument. Following the completion of the constitution, the inauguration was done on 29th May, 2019 (Republic Day), by the then President Mrs. Bidya Devi Bhandari.

Right after you finish exploring the Narayanhiti Palace Museum, don’t think about going home. You can visit many other nearby attractions and enjoy a wonderful time. 

Narayanhiti Pond

Narayanhiti Pond, which is also known as Hiti Pokhari, is an ancient pond that is said to have existed for ages. This pond is less than 500 meters away from the palace and takes only about 5 minutes to reach on foot.

The pond is divided into two sections, and on the western side, there are three stone taps (hitis) from which water flows to the double-dividing pond area. 

Although the pond looks a little murky, it is home to many fish of different colors. Both sides of the pond are filled with different species of fish. While the place looks peaceful, the myth related to it is gruesome.

A long time ago, when Kathmandu was suffering from drought, all the water sources were drying. So, to solve the problem, the then king asked a Vedic astrologer about the reason, and he said that the water would come only if a person with 32 auspicious characteristics (Battis Lakshan) is sacrificed and his/her blood is sprinkled on the Narayan Hiti (tap).

At that time, only the king and his eldest son were the ones with all the auspicious characteristics. So, the king thought of sacrificing himself.

He ordered his son (who was unaware of the plot) to kill a guy lying near the hiti without looking at his face at night.

Later that night, the king laid on the ground of the Narayan Hiti, covering his face with a cloth. The son arrived and killed the person but later realized that the one he killed was his own father!

According to one of the oldest chronicles, Gopal Raja Vansavali, the king who died is the Lichhavi King Dharmadeva, father of Manadeva I.

Beyond this myth, I also learned from the nearby people that the water from this hiti is hot during winter and cold during summer.

Moreover, there are different deities carved in front of the hiti.

Garden of Dreams

A beautiful, elegant, and timeless neoclassical garden, Garden of Dreams, also known as Dream Garden, is located near the entrance to Thamel.

This garden is only 600 meters away from the palace and takes only about 5-7 minutes to reach on foot.

This historic garden, which was a private garden of the historic figure Keshar Shumsher, is known for its beautiful pavilions that are based on the seasons of Nepal.

It also includes fountains, ponds, galleries, a cafe (Kaiser Cafe), and green spaces in the surroundings.

As its name suggests, coming to this garden makes you feel like you are entering a dream where the surroundings are not just pretty but also calming. It is an ideal place to relax and be away from the busy life just for once and enjoy a quieter atmosphere.

Thamel

One of the popular tourist destinations of Nepal, Thamel, is a tourist hub and is just 1 km away from the Narayanhiti Palace Museum and takes about 15 minutes to reach on foot.

The vibrant narrow alleys, lively streets, restaurants, cafes, hotels, handicraft shops, souvenir stores, handmade product shops, and trekking outlets are what this area is famous for!

This area is popular among both international and domestic visitors and gives off completely different vibes from the museum. 

When the rest of Kathmandu is sleeping at night, this area remains as lively as during the day.

After completing the museum exploration and understanding the lifestyle of the royal family, one can visit Thamel to experience the modern, multicultural, and energetic side of Kathmandu.

Rani Pokhari 

Rani Pokhari, originally known as Nhu Pukhu (New Pond), was built by King Pratap Malla in 1670 A.D. to console his queen, who was drowning in grief after her son’s death. 

The rectangular pond near the palace museum is only about 1.5 km away and is open to the public in the morning from 5:00 A.M. to 10:00 A.M. This place can be reached within 10 minutes on foot.

In the middle of the pond, there is a Bal Gopaleshwor Temple, which is open only on Bhai Tika (The Fifth day of the Tihar Festival) for those who don’t have a sister. 

There are many other statues of the deities erected in this temple, such as Harishankar, Ganesh, Suryanarayan with five heads, Bhagwati, and Vishnu. 

There is also the sculpture of King Pratap Malla with his two sons, Mahipatendra Malla and Chakravartendra Malla, praying to the deities on the south bank of the pond. 

After the destruction from the 2015 earthquake, Rani Pokhari was closed to the public and later opened after proper renovation in 2023 A.D.

This is one of the best places to take a walk and enjoy your own company. It is most beautiful during the spring season as the Jacaranda trees surrounding it will come into full bloom.

Ason Bazaar 

This is one of the busiest markets, famous for its narrow streets, traditional Newari architecture, temples, and colorful shops. It can be reached within 20-25 minutes on foot, as it is only 1.5 km from the palace.

In the shops here, you can find every little thing, from spices to household products. You can shop many items such as grains, vegetables, clothes, clay pots, utensils, religious items, handicrafts, etc. 

Right at the junction, historic temples such as the Annapurna Temple (Annapurna Ajima Mandir), Ganesh Temple (Ashok Vinayak), and Narayani Temple are located.

Ason Bazaar is usually crowded from the morning, and during the festival period, it becomes more lively than ever!

This market is not just a busy shopping area; it has historical, cultural, and religious significance. It is the commercial center of Kathmandu that offers a glimpse of both the traditional and modern life of the people living here.

The former Royal Palace is located at North Gate Rd, Kathmandu, and is easily accessible from different places. There are multiple ways to reach the Narayanhiti Palace Museum, depending on where you are.

From Thamel

Anyone can reach Narayanhiti Palace conveniently from Thamel, one of the main tourist hubs, both on foot and by vehicle.

• On foot you can reach the palace within 10-15 minutes. If you walk east toward Tridevi Marg and continue on the Narayanhiti Path, you can see the gate of the Narayanhiti Palace Museum on your left side. 
• On vehicle you can reach within 5 minutes. It depends on which route you take. If you follow the Tridevi Marg to Narayanhiti Path, you will reach in 5 minutes but if you follow Thamel Marg > Lekhnath Marg > Kanti Path > Narayanhiti path, it will take 10 minutes.

From different places inside Kathmandu

You can reach Narayanhiti Palace Museum effortlessly from many other places besides Thamel.

• If you are thinking about reaching the palace from different places in Kathmandu by public vehicle, it is best to board one heading towards Ratna Park, Jamal, or RNAC. From these places, it takes anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes on foot, depending on where you get dropped off.
• From Kathmandu Durbar Square, it takes about 30 minutes to reach the palace on foot, whereas it takes only 10 minutes by vehicle.
• From Boudhanath Stupa, it is best to take a vehicle to the palace, as it takes more than an hour on foot. One can board public buses or micros to reach Ratna Park from Boudha and afterwards walk to reach the palace.
• From TIA (Tribhuvan International Airport), it takes about 30 minutes to reach the palace by vehicle. You can catch a public bus/microbus to get to Ratna Park and follow the Durbar Marg road on foot to reach the palace.

Visiting the Narayanhiti Palace Museum can make one feel like you’re witnessing different chapters of Nepal’s modern history.

Now, based on my experiences, here are some tips I’d like to share with you so you can explore this museum even more meaningfully:

• Since cameras and smartphones are strictly prohibited, keep them safely in the designated locker.
• Exploring the museum can take from 3-4 hours to an entire day. So, wear comfortable footwear, which will make your visit easier and smoother.
• Don’t forget to carry a bottle of water with you because the exploration is going to be about 2-3 hours long. 
• If you want to know interesting stories behind the displayed items, then don’t forget to read the museum placards.
• There are many significant rooms and distinct items, but it is suggested to pause and browse every artifact carefully. This way you won’t miss a detail. 
• Explore the palace in the first hour to avoid crowds (mostly the students who have come for excursions during the day).

If you are planning Kathmandu sightseeing, then adding Narayanhiti Palace Museum to your itinerary is highly recommended. I assure you that your visit is going to be worth every second!

You get to step into the historical landmark with unique architecture that preserves a record of 240 years of Nepal's history. 

Aside from sightseeing, your visit to Narayanhiti Palace Museum offers a meaningful understanding of Nepal’s culture, tradition, and history. Each step in this palace takes you to a different phase of modern Nepalese history.

So, plan your visit to Narayanhiti Palace Museum today and walk through the diverse chapters of Nepal’s history. And let us know if you’d like us to include this tourist destination in one of our Kathmandu-focused packages, and we assure you that our guide shall clarify all your doubts!