Castles & palaces
Hanuman Dhoka
Hanuman Dhoka
Located in Kathmandu Durbar Square, this site is a former royal palace complex used by both the Malla and Shah dynasties. Visitors go here to view historic royal architecture and the statue of Hanuman, which gives the palace its name. The site serves as a record of the city's political history and traditional Newari craftsmanship.
Getting There
The palace is situated in the heart of the city centre. Since it is located within the pedestrian-heavy area of the old city, most travellers arrive on foot or via short rickshaw rides from nearby main roads. Travel time from the central district is minimal, typically taking only a few minutes.
Time Requirement
Allow approximately two to three hours to walk through the palace grounds and observe the various courtyards and structures.
When to Visit
The site gets crowded during peak tourist seasons and during local festivals. Visiting in the early morning is recommended to avoid the largest crowds. The autumn and spring seasons generally offer the most stable weather for outdoor exploration.
Nearby Attractions
Because of its central location, the palace can be combined with several other sites within walking distance:
- Basantapur Durbar Square (0km)
- Kathmandu Valley (0.1km)
- Kasthamandap (0.2km)
- Maru, Kathmandu (0.2km)
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors