Gorkha, also known as Gorkha Municipality, is a historic town located in the Gorkha District of Nepal. It is situated in the western part of the country and is approximately 140 kilometers west of the capital city, Kathmandu. Gorkha holds immense historical and cultural significance as it is the ancestral home of the Shah dynasty, which played a crucial role in the unification of modern Nepal.
Quick Facts
| Location | 2J3H+QGF, Gorkha Bazar 34000 |
| Altitude | 1,152 meters (3,780 feet) |
| Major Inhabitats | Gurung and Magar |
| Best time to visit | March-May, September-November |
Gorkha is renowned for its rich history and picturesque landscapes. The town is nestled on a hilltop, providing panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and the majestic snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. The Trishuli and Marshyangdi rivers flow through the region, adding to its natural beauty.
Major Attractions of Gorkha
Gorkha Durbar (Gorkha Palace): The Gorkha Durbar is a fortified complex that served as the residence and seat of power for the Shah dynasty. It played a significant role in the unification of Nepal. The palace has now been converted into a museum, displaying artifacts, weapons, and artworks from the Shah dynasty era.
Manakamana Temple: Situated near Gorkha, Manakamana Temple is a popular Hindu pilgrimage site. It is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Bhagwati and is accessible via a cable car ride. The temple offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the Trishuli River.
Gorakhnath Cave: Located near the Gorkha Durbar, Gorakhnath Cave is an ancient cave associated with the Gorakhnath sect of Hinduism. The cave is believed to have been the meditation spot of Guru Gorakhnath, a renowned saint of the Nath tradition.
Gorkha Bazaar: Gorkha Bazaar is the main market area of the town, bustling with local shops, eateries, and traditional handicrafts. Exploring the bazaar provides an opportunity to experience the local lifestyle and buy unique souvenirs.
Prithvi Narayan Park: Located near the Gorkha Durbar, Prithvi Narayan Park is a peaceful park named after King Prithvi Narayan Shah. It offers a serene environment for relaxation and provides a glimpse into the region’s history.
Panorama Viewpoint: Gorkha offers several viewpoints that provide panoramic vistas of the surrounding valleys, hills, and mountains. These viewpoints offer breathtaking sunrise and sunset views and are ideal for photography enthusiasts.
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How to get there
By Road: Gorkha is well-connected by road to major cities in Nepal. From Kathmandu, you can take a public bus or hire a private vehicle to reach Gorkha. The journey usually takes around 4-6 hours.
By Air and Road: From the TIA airport, you can take a domestic flight to Pokhara, which is the nearest major city to Gorkha. After reaching Pokhara, you can continue your journey by road, either by public bus or by hiring a private vehicle. The road distance between Pokhara and Gorkha is approximately 108 kilometers, and the journey takes around 3-4 hours.
Trekking: Gorkha is also accessible by trekking routes. The most popular trekking route to Gorkha is the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The trek starts from Soti Khola or Arughat, and it takes around 7-10 days to reach Gorkha on foot.
