Som Sapkota:

Diyalo Bangala, a former royal palace, now stands as a significant historical site and tourist attraction in Bharatpur, Nepal. Situated near the Madan Ashrit Highway, this iconic structure was built in the 1960s by King Mahendra, one of Nepal’s most influential monarchs. The palace holds a profound place in the country’s history, as it was here that King Mahendra spent his final days, passing away on January 31, 1972.

Diyalo Bangala Darbar, located in Anptari near Narayanghat Bazaar, has recently been transformed into a museum, opening its doors to the public as part of the Visit Bharatpur 2024 campaign. This initiative, a collaboration between the Nepal Trust and Bharatpur Metropolitan City, aims to preserve the palace’s historical significance while promoting tourism in the region. The museum offers a glimpse into the life and times of King Mahendra, father of King Birendra and the last reigning King Gyanendra, providing a rich cultural and historical experience for visitors.

The official opening of the palace to the public took place on July 7, with an inauguration ceremony led by Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation Minister Hit Bahadur Tamang. This marks a significant moment in the Visit Bharatpur 2024 campaign, as Diyalo Bangala becomes a focal point of local tourism efforts.

Constructed during King Mahendra’s reign in the 1960s, Diyalo Bangala served as a winter retreat for the royal family. The palace retains much of its original grandeur, with its five bedrooms, each featuring attached bathrooms, a large guest room adorned with portraits of former kings and queens, and a collection of hunting trophies. Among the most notable exhibits is a trophy of a Ghadiyal crocodile killed by King Mahendra in 2026 BS, as well as the head of a tiger.

Diyalo Bangala offers a rare opportunity for visitors to step back in time and experience the luxury of royal life. The palace’s design includes a special area known as ‘Nanigunj’ for the women attendants of the royal family and an ADC quarter for security personnel. A garage and a pond, once filled with water, further add to the palace’s historic charm.

Bharatpur Metropolitan City is actively working to enhance the site’s appeal, with plans to develop additional infrastructure, including a children’s park. Mayor Renu Dahal has emphasized the educational value of the site, encouraging schools and colleges to organize visits to the palace so students can learn about its historical significance.

Under the protection of the Nepali Army for many years, Diyalo Bangala is now poised to become a key cultural and historical landmark, contributing to the success of Visit Bharatpur 2024 and positioning Bharatpur as a prime destination for both domestic and international tourists.

Author: International Coordinator – Visit Bharatpur 2024 Campaign