Hanuman Dhoka Palace,Nepal

Hanuman Dhoka is a historic palace complex located in Kathmandu Durbar Square. It served as the royal palace of the Malla kings and later the Shah dynasty, and is a central site in Nepal’s political and cultural history. The complex contains royal residences, courtyards, royal temples, and coronation halls and is a fine example of Newar architecture and craftsmanship. It is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site designation for Kathmandu Valley.

Places to visit

  • Basantapur Tower (Basantapur Durbar)
  • King Birendra’s Coronation Hall (Taleju Temple complex nearby)
  • Stone and wooden carved windows and doors
  • The courtyard of the Kumari (the living goddess) and the Kumari Bahal
  • Hanuman Statue at the entrance
  • Museums within the complex including the Tribhuvan Museum and Jagannath Museum

Unique Aspects

  • Exquisite Newar woodcarving on windows, struts, and doors
  • Tiered pagoda-style temples and ornate brickwork
  • Historic courtyards used for royal rituals and public ceremonies
  • Viewpoints over Durbar Square and access to festivals and processions

Things to do

  • Guided historical tours of the palace and museums
  • Photography of architecture, carvings and temples
  • Observe or, if permitted, glimpse the Kumari (Living Goddess) during specific hours
  • Attend local festivals like Indra Jatra and Dashain celebrations held in Durbar Square
  • Shop for traditional handicrafts in the surrounding streets

Best Time to Visit

October to December and March to May for mild weather and festival seasons.

Weather Conditions

Kathmandu has a temperate climate: warm and dry in spring and autumn, wet and humid during the monsoon (June–September), and cool in winter (December–February).

Entry Fees & Permits

Main Durbar Square area has an entry fee for foreign tourists (varies by government policy). Individual museums inside the Hanuman Dhoka complex charge separate small fees. Typical visiting hours: around 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but specific museum times may vary.

Accessibility

Located centrally in Kathmandu city; reachable by taxi, rickshaw, or on foot from nearby hotels. The nearest airport is Tribhuvan International Airport (~6–8 km). Public transport and tourist taxis are readily available. The complex has many steps and uneven floors; accessibility for wheelchair users is limited.

Recommended Duration

1–3 hours depending on interest in museums and photography.

Clothing & Gear Tips

Comfortable walking shoes, sun hat, modest clothing for temple areas (knees and shoulders covered), umbrella or rain jacket during monsoon.

Local Food & Souvenirs

Try Newari cuisine and street snacks around Durbar Square; buy traditional wood carvings, paubha paintings, prayer flags, and handmade jewelry as souvenirs.

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