Driving 25 kilometers off the road from the major highway that connects Pokhara to Kathmandu, you will find yourself in the ancient and historical town of Gorkha. Approximately 300 years ago, Nepal was segregated into 50 tiny states, and Gorkha happened to be one of them. King Prithvi Narayan Shah, who established the Shah Dynasty, which governed Nepal till recently, was responsible for unifying Nepal.
Here, you will find the renowned Gorkha Palace atop a hill which stands majestically at an altitude of 1000 meters. This vantage point was a strategic place for the king to watch over his subjects from the tallest palace at the heart of Nepal. Gorkha is also home to the legendary 'khukuri-wielding' famed Gurkha soldiers who have instilled fear in the minds of their enemies in countless wars in Nepal and worldwide.
What to See and Visit
The first and most obvious place to visit would be the Gorkha Palace, where you can begin your tour of the region. Starting from the bottom of the hill, climbing up the 1700 steps to the palace may seem like an arduous task, but the reward at the top is fulfilling ( about 2 hours ). The consolation you can draw is that the way down is easier !!
The palace is not the only feature you will be rewarded for your efforts; you can treat yourself to the stunning views of the panoramic Himalayan vistas. That includes views of Manaslu and Himalchuli peaks and the sprawling valleys below that take your breath away.
The Gorkha District of Nepal has initiated a community tourist program and has been for a couple of years of operation. This region is well appreciated by foreign visitors and Nepalese from other areas for its unrivaled natural beauty, spectacular views, virgin forests, mid-hill trekking routes, cave explorations, cascading waterfalls, and the flora that has medicinal, aromatic, and edible characteristics.
The Gorkha Village Tours, a relatively new venture, has successfully promoted community-based tourism. This is evident from the success and popularity that has stemmed from Sirubari, Syangja ( a half-day excursion from Pokhara ). It is a three-hour walk from the roadhead, which is 30 kilometers from Pokhara.
A Management Committee oversees visitors' welcome, accommodation, sightseeing, and guidance. The village has 60 households that offer homestay accommodations with simple but clean and comfortable bedding and toilet facilities.
You will be treated to fresh local produce during meals which you share with the ethnic Gurung family with whom you stay with. In the evenings, you will be entertained by traditional Gurung dance, music, and song.
In conclusion
In conclusion, Gorkha is a hidden gem in Nepal that offers visitors a wealth of historical and cultural experiences. From the majestic Gorkha Palace to the renowned Gurkha soldiers, there is plenty to discover in this ancient town. The region is also home to breathtaking natural beauty, including panoramic views of the Himalayas and lush forests, caves, and waterfalls. The community-based tourism initiatives in Gorkha Village provide a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the local culture, with homestay accommodations and traditional Gurung dance, music, and song. Overall, Gorkha is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore Nepal's rich history and culture.
Experience all Gorkha offers by booking your trip with Travel Maker South Asia. Our representative is here to help plan your perfect vacation in Nepal's historic and beautiful region. Enjoy the opportunity to explore the Gorkha Palace, witness the stunning Himalayan vistas, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Contact Travel Maker South Asia today to start planning your trip to Gorkha!
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