A special place for Nepal

Located about 30 kilometers in a straight line from Nepal, Nuwakot is a place that—much like the three royal capitals of the Malla Dynasty era (Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur)—features a royal palace, a Durbar Square, a Taleju Temple, and a resident Kumari. It was commissioned by King Prithvi Narayan Shah, who conquered the Malla Dynasty and established the Gorkha Dynasty (which endured until 2008); Nuwakot served as his strategic base for conquering the Kathmandu Valley. The goddess Bhairabi is worshipped here, and the site is home to a living divine couple known as Dami and Damini. Dami embodies the deity Bhairab, while Damini embodies the goddess Bhairabi (also known as Vaishnavi Devi). Bhairabi is worshipped as Shakti—a feminine force representing sexuality and life—while Bhairab is revered as her consort.
This faith is said to date back even further than the ancient Licchavi Dynasty, marking the site as historically significant; it is where King Shah built his base and palace, and ultimately, where he was cremated. With three living deities—Dami, Damini, and the Kumari—Nuwakot is a fascinating place where a unique culture and tradition have evolved over its long history. Situated atop a gentle hill and boasting a beautiful architectural style, it is one of my favorite towns.