Gorkha (गोरखा)
District headquarters: Gorkha
Population
251,027
Area
3,610 km²
Reference elevation
1,200 m
Density
70/km²
Last updated August 26, 2026
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Gorkha
Gorkha is the administrative headquarters of the district and a useful reference point for planning local travel.
Check the map →Best time
Choose your season carefully
Autumn and spring are ideal for trekking and heritage trips. Higher Manaslu routes have more restrictive seasonal conditions.
Read seasonal guidance →Getting there
Check the route before you leave
Gorkha is easily reached by road from Kathmandu or Pokhara. Manakamana has a cable car link from the highway corridor, while Manaslu trails require multi-day travel. Exact transport schedules, road conditions, domestic flight operations and permit rules should be checked shortly before travel because these can change.
See transport details →Build your day
Discover the district
Start with the featured places, then connect them using the map and nearby attractions sections.
Start exploring →Introduction
Gorkha (गोरखा) Overview
Gorkha is one of Nepal's most historically significant districts, the cradle of the Gorkha Kingdom and the birthplace of King Prithvi Narayan Shah, the founder of modern Nepal. The majestic Gorkha Durbar, perched atop a hill, is the symbol of Nepali nationalism and unification. The district is home to Manaslu (8,163 m), the world's eighth-highest peak, and lies partly within the Manaslu Conservation Area. Gorkha is the homeland of the legendary Gurkha soldiers, whose name derives from this very district. The diverse population includes Gurung, Magar, Newar, Bahun, and various ethnic communities, each contributing to the rich cultural tapestry. The famous Manakamana Temple, dedicated to the wish-fulfilling goddess, is one of Nepal's most visited pilgrimage sites, accessible via a modern cable car. Agriculture, tourism, trekking, and remittances drive the economy. The district blends history, spirituality, and adventure tourism.
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Location & Map
Coordinates
28.00000, 84.63330
Open in Google Maps ↗Experiences
Things to Do
Explore the historic clifftop Gorkha Durbar, ride the scenic cable car to Manakamana Temple, trek the majestic Manaslu Circuit, visit the epicenters of the 2015 earthquake Barpak and Laprak, and try local Gurung and hill cuisine.
Plan your route
How to Get There
Gorkha is easily reached by road from Kathmandu or Pokhara. Manakamana has a cable car link from the highway corridor, while Manaslu trails require multi-day travel. Exact transport schedules, road conditions, domestic flight operations and permit rules should be checked shortly before travel because these can change.
Choose your season
Best Time to Visit
Autumn and spring are ideal for trekking and heritage trips. Higher Manaslu routes have more restrictive seasonal conditions.
Continue your journey
Nearby Attractions
Dhading, Lamjung, Tanahun, Manang (neighboring districts / route ideas)
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Frequently Asked Questions
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