# Nuwakot Durbar: The Seven-Storey Palace

_Published 4 May 2026_

On a hilltop above the Trishuli valley, the tall brick tower of [Nuwakot Durbar](/places/nuwakot-durbar) recalls the days when Nuwakot was a key stronghold in the unification of Nepal.

**Quick answer:** Nuwakot Durbar is a **seven-storey palace** (Saat Talle Durbar) built by **Prithvi Narayan Shah** after he conquered Nuwakot in the 1740s. It was damaged in the 2015 earthquake and has been under restoration. It's on UNESCO's tentative list and about 3–4 hours from Kathmandu.

## What to see

- The seven-storey palace tower.
- Temples within the palace complex.
- Views over the Trishuli and Tadi valleys.
- The quiet old village around the palace.

## History

Prithvi Narayan Shah used Nuwakot as a base before conquering the Kathmandu Valley. The palace was reportedly reduced from nine storeys to seven by the 1934 earthquake.

## Getting there

Drive from Kathmandu via Kakani and Trishuli. Combine with [Kakani](/kakani-day-trip) or a stay in the countryside.

See [Gorkha guide](/blog/gorkha-travel-guide).

## Frequently asked questions
### What is Nuwakot Durbar?
A seven-storey palace built by Prithvi Narayan Shah.

### Was it damaged in 2015?
Yes, and it has been under restoration.

### How far is Nuwakot from Kathmandu?
About 3–4 hours by road.

### Is it a UNESCO site?
It is on UNESCO's tentative list.


Web page: https://himalayanhiking.com/blog/nuwakot-durbar-guide