Rising high above the bustling courtyards and ancient shrines of Kathmandu Durbar Square, the Nine-Storey Palace—known locally as Nautale Durbar—is one of the most iconic and historically significant buildings in Nepal. This towering structure, once the royal residence of the Malla and later the Shah kings, stands as a proud symbol of Nepal’s regal heritage, architectural brilliance, and political power.
With its soaring pagoda tiers, intricate woodwork, and sweeping views of the city, the Nine-Storey Palace is much more than a monument—it's a time capsule into the golden age of Kathmandu's history.
A Glorious Past Rooted in Royalty
The Nautale Durbar was originally constructed in the 17th century during the reign of King Pratap Malla, one of the most powerful and visionary rulers of the Malla dynasty. He was a great patron of the arts, architecture, and religion, and under his leadership, Kathmandu became a vibrant cultural center.
The Nine-Storey Palace was designed not only as a royal residence but also as a watchtower, offering commanding views of the city and serving as a strategic lookout during times of unrest. Later, it was used by the Shah kings, and even into the Rana period, the palace remained a key site for royal ceremonies, including coronations and state rituals.
Architectural Brilliance
The Nautale Durbar is an exceptional example of traditional Newari architecture—a harmonious blend of brick masonry, wooden craftsmanship, and pagoda-style tiered roofing. Each floor of the palace reflects the artistic and structural ingenuity of medieval Kathmandu Valley artisans.
Key Features:
Nine stacked stories culminating in a golden finial (gajur) at the top
Intricately carved wooden windows and doors with detailed mythological motifs
Sloped pagoda roofs with wide overhanging eaves
A central throne room, royal chambers, and religious shrines
Panoramic views from the upper floors across Kathmandu and the surrounding hills
The interiors, once decorated with frescoes and traditional furnishings, offered the perfect balance of royal opulence and spiritual tranquility.
Symbol of Power and Sovereignty
For centuries, the Nine-Storey Palace was the center of political power in Nepal. It housed the royal court, hosted dignitaries, and was the site of significant national events. During the Malla period, it served as a symbol of Kathmandu’s dominance among the three kingdoms of the valley—Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan.
It remained an important administrative and ceremonial building even after the unification of Nepal under King Prithvi Narayan Shah in the 18th century. From this vantage point, kings addressed their subjects, celebrated festivals, and performed sacred rites that linked religion, royalty, and the state.
Damage and Restoration
The devastating earthquake of April 2015 caused extensive damage to the Nine-Storey Palace. Several floors collapsed, and the structure was deemed unsafe. However, in recent years, restoration efforts led by the Department of Archaeology and international partners have worked diligently to rebuild and preserve the palace, using traditional materials and techniques to maintain its historical authenticity.
While full access may still be limited during reconstruction phases, parts of the palace and its surrounding courtyards are open to visitors.
Nautale Durbar Today: A Living Monument
Today, the Nine-Storey Palace stands as a proud reminder of Nepal’s rich history. It is part of the Hanuman Dhoka Palace Museum Complex, which includes royal artifacts, weapons, thrones, portraits, and chronicles that offer deep insight into Nepal’s past rulers and their way of life.
Visitors can explore the adjacent courtyards such as:
Basantapur Durbar (the open square in front of the palace)
Nasal Chowk, the ceremonial courtyard
Mul Chowk, the spiritual heart of the palace complex
During festivals like Indra Jatra, the palace becomes a focal point of celebration, with chariot processions, masked dances, and traditional rituals filling the square with life and devotion.
Visiting Information
📍 Location: Central Kathmandu Durbar Square, Basantapur
🕒 Hours: Typically 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
🎟️ Entry Fee: Included in the Kathmandu Durbar Square entry ticket
🚶♂️ Best Time to Visit: Morning hours for photography, or during major festivals like Indra Jatra for a cultural spectacle
The Nine-Storey Palace is more than just an architectural wonder—it’s a place where Nepal’s history, spirituality, and artistry meet. From the visionary mind of King Pratap Malla to the roaring celebrations of modern-day festivals, Nautale Durbar has witnessed it all. Whether you are a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or spiritual seeker, standing before this majestic structure will transport you into the golden age of Nepalese civilization.
So next time you find yourself in Kathmandu, take a moment to look up—way up—to the towering tiers of the Nine-Storey Palace, and feel the heartbeat of a kingdom that once ruled from its lofty heights
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