Hanuman Dhoka is a historic royal palace complex located in Kathmandu Durbar Square, in the heart of the old city. It served as the royal palace of the Malla kings of Kathmandu and later the Shah dynasty after the unification of Nepal. A masterpiece of Newar architecture, Hanuman Dhoka stands today as a symbol of Nepal’s royal heritage, deeply embedded in the cultural, political, and religious fabric of the Kathmandu Valley.

Historical Background

Origins and Early History

• The origins of Hanuman Dhoka trace back to as early as the 4th century during the Licchavi period, but it was extensively developed during the Malla period (12th–18th centuries).

• The complex was named after Lord Hanuman, the monkey god from Hindu mythology, whose idol was installed by King Pratap Malla in 1672 CE at the main gate.

Malla Dynasty (1200s–1768)

• Kings like Pratap Malla expanded and beautified the palace, adding temples, courtyards, and statues.

• It served as the political and administrative center of the Kingdom of Kantipur (present-day Kathmandu).

Shah Dynasty (1768–1886)

• After King Prithvi Narayan Shah conquered Kathmandu in 1768, he made Hanuman Dhoka the capital’s royal seat.

• Coronations of kings like Prithvi Narayan Shah, Rana Bahadur Shah, and Rajendra Bikram Shah were held here.

• Though later Shah kings moved to the Narayanhiti Palace, Hanuman Dhoka remained a ceremonial and historic landmark.

Architectural Layout and Features

Hanuman Dhoka is not just a single structure, but a vast palace complex with:

1. Nasal Chowk (Courtyard of Dance)

• Used for royal coronations and performances.

• Surrounded by beautiful wooden balconies, temples, and throne platforms.

• Houses the Tribhuvan Museum, dedicated to King Tribhuvan.

2. Mul Chowk

• Sacred courtyard devoted to Taleju Bhawani, the royal family’s protective goddess.

• Access is restricted — open to the public only once a year during Dashain.

3. Sundari Chowk

• Known for the Tusha Hiti, a spectacular sunken stone bath built in the 17th century.

• Features intricate carvings of gods, serpents, and sacred animals.

4. Basantapur Tower (Nautale Durbar)

• A nine-storey tower built by Prithvi Narayan Shah.

• Offers panoramic views of Kathmandu; partially damaged during the 2015 earthquake.

5. Hanuman Statue at the Main Gate

• The red-faced Hanuman idol, covered in vermillion paste and cloth, is considered a guardian of the palace.

• Devotees believe it protects Kathmandu from evil.

Religious and Cultural Importance

• Hanuman Dhoka is deeply embedded in Hindu traditions and is surrounded by sacred shrines and temples.

• It is part of the larger Kathmandu Durbar Square, which includes:

  • Taleju Temple (royal deity)

  • Kumari Ghar (home of the Living Goddess Kumari)

  • Jagannath Temple, Shiva-Parvati Temple, and others

Major Festivals Celebrated:

1. Indra Jatra

   • One of the most significant festivals in Kathmandu.

   • Features Kumari chariot processions, dances by masked deities, and royal observances.

2. Dashain

   • Taleju Temple is opened to the public.

   • Worship of the goddess by the royal family traditionally began at Hanuman Dhoka.

Museums Within Hanuman Dhoka

1. King Tribhuvan Memorial Museum

   • Chronicles the life of King Tribhuvan, who helped restore democracy in 1951.

   • Displays royal photographs, personal belongings, and historical documents.

2. King Mahendra Memorial Museum

   • Dedicated to King Mahendra and features insights into his controversial Panchayat-era rule.

3. Hanuman Dhoka Palace Museum

   • General exhibitions on Nepal’s monarchy, architecture, and cultural evolution.

Damage and Restoration After 2015 Earthquake

• The 2015 Gorkha earthquake caused severe structural damage to parts of Hanuman Dhoka, especially the Basantapur Tower and several wooden facades.

• International agencies including UNESCO, the Chinese and US governments, and the Department of Archaeology of Nepal collaborated for authentic restoration using traditional materials.

Visiting Hanuman Dhoka

• Location: Kathmandu Durbar Square, a short walk from Thamel or New Road.

• Hours: 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)

• Entrance Fee:

  • Foreigners: NPR 1,000

  • SAARC nationals: NPR 150

  • Free for Nepali citizens

Travel Tips:

• Hire a local guide to understand the myths, symbolism, and hidden gems of the palace.

• Visit during Indra Jatra or Dashain for the most vibrant cultural experience.

• Combine your visit with Kumari Ghar, Seto Machindranath Temple, and Freak Street.

 

 Myth, Symbolism, and Legend

• It is believed that Hanuman’s statue protects the palace from evil spirits.

• Locals say that Tusha Hiti was not just a bath but a ritual cleansing pool used before sacred ceremonies.

• Pratap Malla, a great patron of art and astrology, is said to have designed certain sections based on cosmic alignments.

Conclusion

Hanuman Dhoka is not just a historical monument — it is the spiritual and political heart of Nepal’s royal past. With its majestic courtyards, sacred temples, and centuries of legacy, it offers visitors a chance to step back in time and explore the soul of Kathmandu’s ancient glory. Whether you’re a history lover, spiritual seeker, or curious traveler, Hanuman Dhoka is a must-visit icon of Nepalese heritage.