Nestled amidst the vibrant labyrinth of Kathmandu, the ancient heart of Nepal lies a place where history reverberates through time and where the essence of a nation is etched in every stone. Hanuman Dhoka Palace, a living relic of Nepal’s storied past, beckons travellers with promises of discovery, wonder, and a journey into the annals of a civilization’s heritage. This majestic palace complex, a fusion of neo-classical grandeur and Newar craftsmanship, is a portal to a bygone era when Malla and Shah kings ruled. Kathmandu was a kingdom of mystery and majesty.
Join us as we explore Hanuman Dhoka Palace, unearthing its history, unravelling its architectural marvels, and delving into the cultural tapestry that makes it an enduring symbol of Nepal’s enduring soul. In this blog, we invite you to step through the palace gates and immerse yourself in the timeless charm and grandeur of Hanuman Dhoka.
History of Hanuman Dhoka Palace
The history of Hanuman Dhoka Palace dates back to the Licchavi period (4th to 8th centuries AD). However, the oldest parts of the palace complex that still exist today were built in the 15th century by the Malla kings. The Malla kings ruled Nepal from the 13th to the 18th centuries, and they made Kathmandu their capital.
The palace complex was further expanded by the Shah kings, who ruled Nepal from the 18th to the 20th centuries. The Shah kings were the last ruling dynasty of Nepal, and they lived in Hanuman Dhoka Palace until 1960.
In 1960, King Mahendra abolished the monarchy and declared Nepal a republic. The royal family moved out of Hanuman Dhoka Palace and the palace complex was turned into a museum.
Architecture of Hanuman Dhoka Palace
The architecture of Hanuman Dhoka Palace is of Nepalese style. The palace is made of brick and wood and decorated with intricate carvings and paintings. The roofs are steeply sloping and are covered with terracotta tiles.
The palace complex is divided into three courtyards: the Nasal Chowk, the Sundari Chowk, and the Mul Chowk. The Nasal Chowk is the largest courtyard and is where the main palace buildings are located. The Sundari Chowk is the second largest courtyard and is where the royal family’s living quarters were once located. The Mul Chowk is the smallest courtyard and is where the throne room is located.
The palace complex is home to many temples, including the Taleju Temple, which is dedicated to the goddess Taleju. The Taleju Temple is one of the most important temples in Nepal and is only accessible to the royal family and high-ranking priests.
Museums at Hanuman Dhoka Palace
Here are the museums at Hanuman Dhoka Palace:
- Hanuman Dhoka Palace Museum: This museum exhibits artifacts from the Malla and Shah dynasties and the Rana period. The exhibits include weapons, armor, jewelry, paintings, and sculptures.
- Tribhuvan Museum: This museum exhibits the personal belongings of King Tribhuvan, the last Shah king of Nepal. The exhibits include his throne, clothes, weapons, and photographs.
- King Mahendra Memorial Museum: This museum exhibits the personal belongings of King Mahendra, the father of the current king of Nepal. The exhibits include his throne, clothes, weapons, and photographs.
Hanuman Dhoka Palace Timings and Entry fees
Here are the timings and entry fees for Hanuman Dhoka Palace in Kathmandu:
- Timings:
- 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, seven days a week.
- Entry fees:
- Nepalese citizens: NPR 30
- Foreign nationals: NPR 750
- SAARC citizens: NPR 150
- Chinese nationals: NPR 750
The palace is closed on Mondays.
You can also get a discount if you are a student or a senior citizen. The discount is 50% off the regular entrance fee.
You must show proof of eligibility at the entrance gate to avail of the discounts.
Things to see and do at Hanuman Dhoka Palace
Hanuman Dhoka Palace, with its rich history and cultural significance, offers visitors many things to see and do. Here are some of the top attractions and activities to explore when visiting the palace:
- Explore the Palace Courtyards:
- Wander through the various courtyards within the palace complex, each with unique architectural features and historical significance. Check out Mul Chowk, Sundari Chowk, and Nasal Chowk.
- Observe the Palace Architecture:
- Take in the stunning neo-classical and Newar architectural elements of the palace. Admire the intricately carved windows, doors, and woodwork adorn the buildings.
- Basantapur Tower:
- Climb the Basantapur Tower (also known as Basantapur Durbar), which offers panoramic views of Kathmandu Durbar Square and the surrounding city.
- Visit the three museums:
- The Hanuman Dhoka Palace Museum, the Tribhuvan Museum, and the King Mahendra Memorial Museum. These museums exhibit artifacts from the Malla and Shah dynasties, as well as from the Rana period.
- Kumari’s Residence (Kumari Ghar):
- Witness the Kumari, the Living Goddess of Kathmandu, during her scheduled appearances at Kumari Ghar. Please remember to be respectful and follow the rules when observing this sacred tradition.
- Jaisi Deval Temple:
- Explore the Jaisi Deval Temple adjacent to the palace, which houses a bronze statue of King Pratap Malla.
- Cultural Performances and Festivals:
- Check for any cultural performances or festivals in the palace or Basantapur Durbar Square during your visit. These events often feature traditional music, dance, and rituals.
- Admire Artifacts and Sculptures:
- Marvel at the various sculptures, statues, and historical artifacts scattered throughout the palace complex, providing a glimpse into Nepal’s artistic heritage.
- Relax in the Gardens:
- Enjoy moments of tranquility in the palace gardens, which are adorned with lush greenery, fountains, and shaded areas perfect for a peaceful escape.
- Photography:– Capture the architectural beauty and historical essence of Hanuman Dhoka Palace through photography, but be sure to respect any photography restrictions or guidelines.
How to Reach Hanuman Dhoka Palace
Reaching Hanuman Dhoka Palace in Kathmandu is relatively straightforward, as it’s located in the city’s heart. Here are various ways to reach Hanuman Dhoka Palace:
- From Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM):
- Taxi: The most convenient way to reach Hanuman Dhoka Palace from the airport is by taxi. Taxis are readily available at the airport, and the journey should take approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Agreeing on the fare with the taxi driver before starting the journey is a good idea.
- From Kathmandu City Center (e.g., Thamel):
- Walking: If you’re staying in or near the city center, you can walk to Hanuman Dhoka Palace if it’s within a reasonable distance. Thamel, a popular tourist area, is often within walking distance of the palace.
- Rickshaw: You can also hire a bicycle or a traditional cycle rickshaw to take you to Hanuman Dhoka Palace if you prefer a leisurely ride.
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available throughout Kathmandu, and you can easily hire one to reach the palace.
- Public Bus: Local public buses in Kathmandu can be a budget-friendly option, but they may only sometimes be the most comfortable or reliable choice for tourists.
- From Other Locations in Kathmandu:
- If you’re staying in other areas of Kathmandu, such as Patan or Bhaktapur, you can take a taxi or a local bus to reach Hanuman Dhoka Palace.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hanuman Dhoka Palace is a timeless testament to Nepal’s rich history, cultural heritage, and architectural brilliance. Nestled in the heart of Kathmandu, this historic palace complex has witnessed centuries of dynasties, rulers, and events that have shaped Nepal’s identity.
As visitors explore the palace’s courtyards, architecture, and museums, they journey back in time, connecting with the legacy of the Malla and Shah kings who once ruled these lands. The palace is a living treasure trove of art, culture, and history, with its neo-classical and Newar architecture, sculptures, and artifacts.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu, Hanuman Dhoka Palace offers a tranquil oasis, where travelers can immerse themselves in the stories and traditions of Nepal. It’s a place where ancient rituals blend seamlessly with modern life and history continues to unfold.