Narayanhiti Royal Palace, Kathmandu

Narayanhiti Royal Palace is the former home and workplace of Nepal’s monarchy and now functions as the Narayanhiti Palace Museum. The present 38-acre palace complex, designed in 1963 by architect Benjamin Polk for King Mahendra, includes courtyards, gardens, and multiple buildings, blending modern design with traditional Nepalese elements. Before the 2006 revolution and the formal abolition of the monarchy in 2008, it served as the official residence of the Shah kings.

The palace is divided into private, guest, and state wings and contains 52 rooms, including a reception hall and throne room. These 52 rooms are named after the districts of Nepal. Many interiors are decorated in a distinct Mid-Century Modern and Art Deco style infused with traditional Nepalese motifs, and they remain furnished as they were during the royal era, giving visitors a glimpse into court life. Highlights include a 48-foot-tall chandelier hanging in the main Gorkha Baithak throne room, the golden state coach, ceremonial gifts, royal portraits, and the crown jewels, which went on display in 2018.

The palace is also associated with the tragic 2001 royal massacre, in which King Birendra, Queen Aishwarya, and several members of the royal family were killed. One of the most popular areas to explore is Shree Sadan, a three-story cottage that served as King Birendra’s private family residence and formally opened to the general public in November 2020.