[2025 Kathmandu Attraction] Travel Guide for Narayanhiti Palace Museum (Updated Jul)

The Narayanhiti Palace Museum is a significant cultural institution in Kathmandu, Nepal. The museum was created in 2008 from the former Narayanhiti Palace, which was the residence of the Nepali royal family. After the 2006 revolution, the palace was converted into a museum, showcasing the country's rich history and cultural heritage. The museum's exhibits include royal artifacts, artwork, and other memorabilia that provide insight into the lives of the Nepali royal family. Visitors to the Narayanhiti Palace Museum can explore the grand halls and rooms of the former palace, which offer a glimpse into the country's royal past. The museum's collections and exhibits are a testament to Nepal's rich cultural heritage, and the museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, or royal heritage. With its unique blend of history and culture, the Narayanhiti Palace Museum is an essential part of any Kathmandu tour.

The Nepali museum history began with the establishment of the National Museum in 1928 by King Tribhuvan Bir Bikram Shah, with the purpose of collecting, preserving, and exhibiting Nepal's cultural, historical, and artistic heritage. Over the years, the museum has expanded its collection and exhibitions, becoming a premier cultural institution that plays a crucial role in promoting Nepal's cultural heritage and educating the public about the country's rich history. Here's a more detailed overview: # National Museum The National Museum in Kathmandu showcases Nepal's rich history and culture, featuring a vast collection of artifacts, including ancient sculptures, paintings, and historical objects. # Patan Museum The Patan Museum, located in the former royal palace, showcases the region's rich cultural heritage, featuring an impressive collection of Buddhist art and artifacts. # Naryanhiti Museum The Naryanhiti Museum, also known as the Palace Museum, showcases the history of the Nepali monarchy, featuring a collection of artifacts, including royal robes, jewelry, and state gifts. # Museum of Nepali Art The Museum of Nepali Art in Kathmandu features a diverse collection of Nepali art, including paintings, sculptures, and other artifacts, providing insight into Nepal's rich artistic traditions. # Taragaon Museum The Taragaon Museum showcases the history and culture of the Kathmandu Valley, featuring exhibits on architecture, art, and traditions, as well as a collection of artifacts and photographs. # Hanuman Dhoka Hanuman Dhoka is a historical palace complex in Kathmandu, featuring several courtyards, temples, and museums, offering a glimpse into Nepal's rich cultural heritage. # National Art Museum (Bhaktapur) The Nepali Art Museum in Bhaktapur Durbar Square showcases a collection of Nepali art and artifacts, providing insight into the country's rich artistic traditions and cultural heritage. # Woodcraft Museum (Bhaktapur) The Woodcraft Museum in the Dattatreya Temple area of Bhaktapur features an impressive collection of traditional Nepali wood carvings, showcasing the country's rich craftsmanship and artistic heritage. These museums offer a wealth of information about Nepal's history, culture, and artistic traditions, making them a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about this fascinating country. #kathmandu #museums

#getgoing2025 Narayanhiti Palace Museum Former Royal Residence: The Narayanhiti Palace was the former royal palace of Nepal, serving as the residence of the Shah dynasty until the abolition of the monarchy in 2008. Modern Architecture: The palace is a relatively modern structure, built in the late 1960s. Museum Exhibits: The palace has been converted into a museum, showcasing the history of the Nepali monarchy and offering a glimpse into the lives of the former royal family. Historical Significance: The palace has witnessed significant historical events, including the royal massacre in 2001.

On the last day of the journey, I stayed an extra day in Kathmandu for some impromptu research. Finally, I could sleep until I naturally woke up, then leisurely enjoy a hearty breakfast before setting off at a relaxed pace. It had drizzled all day the day before, and when I went out, I found the air to be much fresher and less dusty. 📍First stop, Narayanhiti Palace Museum. This place has served as the palace of Nepal since 1870, and in 2008, the monarchy was abolished and it was opened to the public as a museum. The entrance fee is 200 rupees for Nepalese, 1,000 rupees for foreigners, and 500 rupees for Chinese passport holders. Right next to the ticket office is the baggage check, where photography is not allowed, and even mobile phones cannot be brought in. The security check is very strict, so don't even think about going in to take pictures. I took two photos at the entrance, p2-3. Inside the museum, there are some photos and textual historical materials, as well as items used in the royal household. What struck me most were the carpets made of whole tiger and leopard skins that covered the halls, the rhino heads and crocodile specimens on the walls, and the floor lamps resting on bear paws... The glass marble-like eyes of the beasts stared at me, giving a very primitive and violent feeling. Even more violent and legendary was the royal massacre of 2001. The official statement is that Crown Prince Dipendra, due to a dispute over his choice of spouse, shot and killed several royal family members including his parents, and then committed suicide, resulting in 11 deaths. The one who ascended to the throne was King Gyanendra, the brother of the then king and uncle of the crown prince. However, rumors among the people say that all were killed by Gyanendra, and the tumultuous public opinion eventually led to his dethronement in 2008, and Nepal was declared a republic, with the Shah dynasty stepping down from the stage of history. Regardless of the truth, history is always strikingly similar, because what is common is the similar human nature. 📍Second stop, the Garden of Dreams, p4-5, very close to the palace, just a leisurely stroll away. It is part of the palace built by a marshal of the Rana family in 1920. The garden has a European architectural style, not very big, with an entrance fee of 500, not very cost-effective, optional visit, lots of little squirrels scurrying around. 📍Third stop, Thamel Street, mainly for food hunting, with all kinds of flavors available, making it hard to choose. The only certainty was not to eat Nepalese food anymore, and finally, I opted for Japanese cuisine. 📍Fourth stop, Kathmandu Durbar Square, p1, p6-9. Kathmandu Durbar Square is the oldest of the three Durbar Squares in Nepal by estimation, and it was the most severely damaged in the 7.5 magnitude earthquake in 2015. It was once a gathering area for Western hippies seeking spiritual freedom, bustling with people, and had the most local atmosphere. Although I heard that it has been 70% restored, it still feels like it's full of dangerous buildings everywhere. From the cracks in the walls p6, to the simply cement-patched roofs p7, to the small vendors and peddlers, this place looks more like a living area than a tourist area. These four places are connected by just 2km, a half-hour walk. Kathmandu Durbar Square Garden of Dreams Narayanhiti Palace Museum Thamel Area