Narayanhiti Palace, once home to Nepal’s royal family, is now a museum. Located near Kathmandu’s busy Thamel district, it attracts tourists eager to learn about the monarchy’s fascinating and tragic history.
From Royal Home to Tourist Attraction
The palace, located in the heart of Kathmandu, was the home of Nepal’s royals until 2008. After the monarchy was abolished, the palace opened its doors to the public. Now, it serves as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the lavish lives of Nepal’s former rulers. Today, people from all over Nepal visit the site, drawn by its history and the dramatic events that took place within its walls.
The Bullet Holes: A Dark Memory
As visitors enter the palace grounds, they notice a striking sight. A wall in the courtyard bears marks of bullet holes, where Crown Prince Dipendra was found after the infamous royal massacre of 2001. These bullet holes remind everyone of the terrible events that occurred here. Dipendra allegedly shot and killed his parents, the King and Queen, as well as his siblings before turning the gun on himself. He survived for three days in a coma and was declared King of Nepal during that time.
Touring the Palace: A Journey Through Royal Life
Entering the palace feels like stepping back in time. The grand entrance hall, with its mirrored columns and large chandeliers, hints at the royal luxury that once filled the space. However, as the tour continues, visitors see that some rooms reflect a more basic, even harsh, royal lifestyle. Rooms are filled with trophies from hunting expeditions, including the skins of tigers, cheetahs, and rhinos. The opulence contrasts with the cold reality of the palace’s history.
Royal Relics on Display
One of the highlights of the visit is the display of the royal family’s belongings. The king’s gold sceptre, sword, and crown—trimmed with diamonds and pearls—are among the most impressive items on display. These items symbolize the wealth and power the royal family once held. They also reflect the lives that were lost so tragically in this very palace.
The Massacre Site: A Haunting Reminder
The most sobering part of the tour is the massacre site. In the courtyard and nearby rooms, signs mark the places where the royal family members were killed. The billiard room, where King Birendra was shot, is visible through windows smudged by years of curious onlookers. The courtyard, where Queen Aishwarya and Prince Nirajan were shot, adds another layer of haunting history. The spot where Crown Prince Dipendra was found wounded, his bullet-ridden body lying near the royal family’s hair salon, completes the grim picture.
A Crowd Gathered Around History
Despite the dark past, the mood at the palace is surprisingly festive. Groups of tourists gather in the courtyard, taking pictures and chatting. It feels like a normal day out, despite the site’s tragic significance. The crowds come from all over Nepal to witness a part of history that many had never seen before. The juxtaposition of history and modern-day tourism makes the experience all the more surreal.
A Symbol of Nepal’s Past and Future
Today, Narayanhiti Palace stands as a monument to Nepal’s past. It reflects both the wealth and excess of the royal family and the tragedy that brought their reign to an end. The palace’s transformation from a royal residence to a museum is a reminder of how Nepal’s monarchy was forever changed. For many visitors, the palace represents a window into the country’s history, both its glory and its downfall.
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