In terms of Nepal's history, Gorkha is significant because it was the birthplace of King Prithvi Narayan Shah, who ultimately brought Nepal together. In addition to its historical significance, Gorkha has become a popular trekking destination in recent years.
Aside from the magnificent Himalayan range, abundant biodiversity, varied topography, and unique culture and tradition, Nepal is well-known throughout the world as the birthplace of the valiant and legendary Gurkhas. Additionally, since the majority of the soldiers during the wars were Gorkha natives, the term "brave Gurkhas" was derived from the place itself.
Gorkha is not only rich in history, but it's also one of the most picturesque locations with some of the best examples of architecture. You can see breathtaking mountain views, verdant hills covered in dense forest, and beautiful rivers flowing from the mountain from Gorkha.
A historic location and its palace, set at the top of a hill, exhibits the best architectural design. The palace was built on a hilltop as part of a military plan to keep the royal families safe from the enemy's armies. From the top, one can see the mesmerising surroundings.
The majority of the population in Gorkha is of the Gurung ethnic group, who have gained admiration and respect for their valour as courageous Gurkhas in both world wars. Additionally, a few of them have received the Victoria Cross, the highest honour in the British honours system.
The fact that they are very amiable people who will welcome you with a great deal of hospitality despite their unquestionably strict and fierce demeanour on the battlefield speaks volumes about them.
You can also go hiking through the verdant jungle all the way around the Gorkha and take in the scenery. You might see honey hunters gathering honey from wild bees as you pass through distinctive villages and ancient temples with beautiful artwork. Additionally, there are high chances of seeing the traditional, historical, and cultural town because the Manaslu Circuit Trek is located in the Gorkha district.
My experience:
Born here with the blessings of Gorakhnath, Prithivi Narayan Shah later played a significant part in the unification of Nepal. 360-degree panoramic views of the mountains and villages are available from the palace's roof. However, the palace wasn't as large as I had anticipated. Most of the palace's components were destroyed by the 2015 earthquake, which had Gorkha as its epicentre, and reconstruction is still ongoing.
Regarded by many as the crowning glory of Newari architecture, the 16th-century Gorkha Durbar is a fort, palace and temple all in one. Miraculously, the main structure survived the 2015 earthquake, but damage was extensive, and at the time of research, repairs were still under way. The temple-palace perched high above Gorkha on a knife-edge ridge, with superb views over the Trisuli Valley and magnificent panoramas of the soaring peaks of the Annapurna, Manaslu and Ganesh Himalaya.
Gorkha holds its own history in Gorkha Memorial museum, definitely worth taking the time to look around and read some of the displayed personal stories. The entrance fee is 200 rupees per person. I don't understand why a photo permit costs an extra 20 rupees.
The Museum is on the opposite side of town from Lakeside, but it's very simple to take the public bus for 30 rupees per person from Lakeside to the terminus of the line in town (about 40 minutes away).
Stops a couple of times to wait for the bus in front to catch up, but it's a great way to see Pokhara, and if you have a good seat at Lakeside, just take in the 45-minute ride!
Lastly, we ended up in Gorakhnath Temple by accident, and the thought that there may not be many tourists there was a welcome break from the normal tour. The palace is fascinating not because there are many sights to view inside, but rather because of everything that surrounds it, the locals that visit for religious rites, and of course, the monkeys. A medium-to-long staircase leads up a high hill and through a cool jungle-like backdrop to the palace. That section was absolutely lovely. It's a little unusual to get at the top and see a helipad at the palace's entrance as well as what appears to be a small military base. We were only allowed to access one building inside the palace itself, which housed a nearby Hindu prayer hall and a small, barred area where locals were tossing coins. The palace was crowded with residents, which gave it a very genuine feel. Although it's not the most incredible experience, it has a certain allure. It's arguably one of the nicest things to see in Gorkha if you don't mind the steps.
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