Palpa [Nepal], November 5 (HBTV): Perched atop a massive rock along the banks of the Kaligandaki River, the Rani Mahal—translated as Queen’s Palace—is drawing hundreds of tourists daily.
The grand structure, built in 1893 by General Khadga Shumsher in memory of his wife Tej Kumari, is often referred to as the Taj Mahal of Nepal. Once overlooked, the historic monument in western Nepal has now emerged as a prominent destination for both domestic and foreign visitors.
‘The view is mesmerising, it’s a historic place to be. The king built it in memory of the deceased queen, and various facilities and infrastructures have been preserved and displayed here. It is an ancient structure for tourists from all across the places to visit,’ said Kiran Kunwar, a tourist visiting the Rani Mahal.
The palace had long been overshadowed by the popularity of Pokhara to the northeast and Lumbini to the south. However, the tranquil setting—surrounded by hills and the serene Kaligandaki River—has helped revive its charm. According to officials, the site’s tourist footfall has grown steadily in recent years.
‘In comparison to previous years, the number of domestic and foreign tourists has continued to rise. We have recorded at least one hundred and forty-two thousand tourists this year, and the numbers keep increasing,’ said Yadav Singh Karki, spokesperson of the Tansen Municipality.
To preserve the architectural heritage of the Rani Mahal—believed by some historians to have been envisioned as a spiritual site akin to India’s Benaras—the local authorities have initiated restoration works. ‘We have been carrying out maintenance work. As it is made of lime and chestnuts, it is more prone to algae. Cleaning staff have been appointed to maintain cleanliness on a daily basis,’ Karki added.
The four-storey structure, measuring 56 feet wide and 112 feet tall, combines European and neoclassical architectural styles. The eastern front houses a prayer room built for Khadga Shumsher, with sitting rooms on the upper floors and bedrooms in the middle. The palace complex also features gardens, two ponds with intricately carved edges, and a grand staircase descending to the Kaligandaki River.
Previously, the palace served as an entry point for pilgrims en route to the Muktinath temple in Mustang and includes an ancient guesthouse, horse stable, and relics from the royal era. One of the ponds, Ranipokhari, is regarded as a symbol of love, making the site especially popular among couples.
Located about 13 kilometres from Tansen, Rani Mahal lies 396 kilometres from Kathmandu, 65 kilometres from Lumbini, and 120 kilometres from Pokhara.
(ANI)