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Gorkha |
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Guide > Gorkha |
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The small hill town
of Gorkha assumes a ritual importance far beyond its size as
the birthplace of Prithvi Narayan Shah, the 18th
century unifier of Nepal and founder of the present ruling dynasty.
The palace, perched 1,000 feet above Gorkha Bazaar, dominates
the surroundings and is visible from all around town. Regarded
as a holy shrine by many, it offers a fantastic view of lush
green valleys and the Himalayas beyond. An ‘eternal flame’ has
been burning inside it ever since his rule.
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| Gorkha
Durbar |
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The Gorkha Durbar, a fort, palace
and temple complex, is the centrepoint and highlight of a visit
to Gorkha. Part of it is believed to date from the reign of
King Ram Shah, but successive generations have made alterations
and additions, usually using Newari artisans. The complex, perched
high above the town, is a triumph of Nepali architecture and
offers superb views of the dramatic landscape.
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| Hanuman
Bhanjyang |
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It is marked by a stone statue of
Hanuman brandishing an axe, is a good vantage point from which
to watch the procession of local people, porters and the occasional
trekking group pass by.
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| Tallo
Durbar |
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The Tallo Durbar, a large, square
Newari-style building that was built in 1835, once housed a
Rana who was banished from Kathmandu for his role of one of
the many political intrigues. The building is being renovated
and will eventually house a museum.
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| Tallokot |
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This is a small, old fort, is located
close to the palace and is now used as a sacrificial site. A
ho been the residence of a saint named Gorakhnath, after whom
the town ly cave is located just below the palace. It is believed
to haveis named.
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| Kalika
Durbar |
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This is centred around a powerful
Kali Temple, which is the scene of frequent animal sacrifices.
The temple has some superb woodcarvings and a window with a
design similar to the Star of David.
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| Upkallot |
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Upkallot, the highest point on the
ridge, has the ruins of a fort and a telecommunications tower.
It provides some stupendous views over the palace and across
to the Himalayas.
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