The short answer
For history lovers, yes. Gorkha is where the Shah dynasty began, with a hilltop Durbar, temples and wide views. It is quieter than the main circuit.
Key facts
- Fort
- Gorkha Durbar on the hill
- Town
- Old bazaar and temples
- Effort
- Long climb of steps
How it works
- Climb to Gorkha DurbarA long stone stairway leads to the hilltop fort, where the Shah kings began their conquest of the valley.
- Visit Kalika and the Gorakhnath caveTemples beside the palace, with a small cave shrine below.
- Walk back through the bazaarThe old town has sweets, temples and a quiet pace.
Insider tip
The climb is the price; the quiet is the reward.
Avoid this
Do not climb at midday in summer.
Related questions
Is the climb tiring?
Yes. Go early, take water and go slowly.
Why is Gorkha important?
Prithvi Narayan Shah set out from here in the 18th century to unify the small kingdoms of Nepal.
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