Rani Mahal Palpa – The Taj Mahal of Nepal | History, Location, Nearby Attractions & Travel Guide

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16 Apr 2025

2024

Rani Mahal, also called Rani Ghat Palace, is a beautiful four-storey palace in Ranighat, Palpa District, Nepal, on the banks of the Kali Gandaki River. Sitting roughly 13 km north of Tansen, the district headquarters, it is possibly the most well-known landmark in the district. The palace is surrounded by forests and visitors get scenic views of the river and nearby hills.

Rani Mahal is often called the ‘Taj Mahal of Nepal’ due to its resemblance to India’s iconic monument and a similar backstory, as it was also built as a tribute to a beloved wife. Built in 1893, Rani Mahal (which translates to the ‘Queen’s Palace) was commissioned by Khadga Samsher Rana, a high-ranking Nepalese general. He constructed it in memory of his youngest wife, Tej Kumari Devi, who passed away the previous year. The palace served as a private residence before being abandoned in 1902 when Khadga Samsher fled to India.

The palace cost 35 crore Nepalese rupees to build. It was constructed using brick and mortar and the design is a blend of Nepali and Mughal architectural styles, with some European influences.

After years of neglect, the Nepalese government restored Rani Mahal in 2017 to preserve its historical value. Today, it functions as a museum and tourist site, accessible by road or a 2 to 4 hour hike from Tansen. Visitors can explore its gardens, riverfront views, and nearby attractions like Tansen Bazaar and Rani Ban (Queen’s Forest).

• Open: Daily 9: 00 am - 5:00 pm (extended hours in peak season)
• Entry fee: NPR 100 for Nepalis, NPR 500 for international visitors

Rani Mahal Palpa : Key Information at a Glance

History of Rani Mahal

Rani Mahal was built in 1893 by Khadga Shamsher Rana, a powerful Nepalese general from the Rana dynasty. He commissioned the palace in memory of his youngest and most beloved wife, Tej Kumari Devi, who had died a year prior, in 1892. The palace was initially designed as a private residence for Rana.

The construction cost approximately 35 crore Nepalese rupees at the time and builders used brick and mortar techniques. Labor was sourced through forced contributions from local villagers and the Agri caste community, which was a common practice in the country under the Rana regime. The architectural style of the palace blends Nepali, Mughal, and European influences.

Khadga Shamsher Rana fell out of favor with the ruling Rana family, specifically the then Prime Minister Chandra Shumsher, and was exiled. In 1902, he fled to India with his family, abandoning Rani Mahal. Without maintenance, the palace slowly deteriorated over the decades, suffering damage from weather, vegetation overgrowth, and neglect.

After more than a century of decay, the Nepalese government took steps to restore Rani Mahal in 2017. The renovation aimed to preserve its historical and cultural significance while promoting tourism. The palace was repaired, cleaned, and converted into a museum to showcase its history (Gurung, 2022). A new road was also constructed along the Brangdi River to improve access for visitors.

Controversy about Labor

While Rani Mahal is celebrated for its beauty, its construction involved forced labor. Some historians and activists highlight the exploitation of local workers, particularly from the Agri caste (a marginalized Dalit community), who were compelled to work without fair wages, while talking about Rani Mahal’s history. 

Historical accounts suggest that the workers endured long hours hauling materials like bricks, mortar and timber to build the palace. Many labored under physical duress, with inadequate food and shelter. The palace's riverside location made transportation of materials even more grueling.

Historical Timeline of Rani Mahal

1892: Death of Tej Kumari Devi.

1893: Construction of Rani Mahal begins.

1902: Khadga Shamsher flees to India; palace abandoned.

2017: Government restores Rani Mahal, opens it to the public.

Architecture of Rani Mahal

Rani Mahal's architecture is a fascinating blend of Nepali, Mughal and European influences, giving it a distinctive look. Built primarily with brick and mortar, the palace stands on a massive natural rock beside the Kali Gandaki River, featuring thick outer walls (2-3 feet) for stability.

Its Neo-classical base structure incorporates Mughal-inspired arches and symmetrical layouts, while intricate Newa-style wood carvings, that show Nepal’s traditional craftsmanship, adorn windows and balconies.

The palace's octagonal central structure is flanked by towering minarets and ornamental domes. Inside, the layout includes dozens of rooms: living quarters, guest chambers and a grand kitchen, all arranged around what was likely a central courtyard with gardens. 

Spacious verandas with carved wooden railings face the river, while a grand staircase leads to the main entrance. Additional features like artificial ponds and a separate temple structure add to the palace's luxurious design.

Construction techniques have incorporated both aesthetic and practical considerations, with arched doorways and windows for load distribution and sloped roofs to handle monsoon rains. The river-facing orientation served both defensive purposes and visual appeal.

While the 2017 restoration preserved much of the original woodwork and structural integrity, some decorative elements have been lost to time. Today, Rani Mahal is an interesting example of 19th-century Neo-classical architecture in western Nepal. Its strategic riverside location and memorial purpose draw natural comparisons to the Taj Mahal.

Nearby Landmarks and Attractions Around Rani Mahal

The area surrounding Rani Mahal has many cultural, historical and natural attractions that will add to your visit to this iconic palace. From the Kali Gandaki River flowing beside the monument to the busy Tansen Bazaar, the nearby sites showcase Palpa’s diverse heritage.

Kali Gandaki River

Flowing directly beside Rani Mahal, the Kali Gandaki River is one of Nepal's most sacred waterways. The river contains ancient fossilized ammonites called ‘Shaligrams’, revered in Hinduism.

Visitors can enjoy scenic riverside walks, photography opportunities, and even witness locals performing religious rituals along its banks. The river's strong currents and unique geological features make it a fascinating natural attraction.

Rani Ban (Queen’s Forest)

Adjacent to the palace grounds lies Rani Ban, a lush forest also named by Khadga Shumsher in honor of his late wife. This protected woodland area showcases Nepal's native biodiversity, with dense vegetation providing habitat for various bird species and small mammals.

The forest is perfect for quiet walks, birdwatching and escaping the midday heat. Its proximity to the palace enhances the overall visitor experience.

Tansen Bazaar

Located 13 km from Rani Mahal, Tansen Bazaar is the cultural and commercial heart of Palpa district. This historic market town has well-preserved Newa architecture, with brick-paved streets lined with traditional buildings.

The bazaar is particularly famous for its Palpali Dhaka, a handwoven fabric used in traditional Nepali attire.

Visitors can explore numerous shops selling local handicrafts, taste authentic Newa cuisine and observe the daily life of locals in this charming hill town that has maintained its traditional character.

Amar Narayan Temple

This three-tiered pagoda-style temple in Tansen, built in 1806, is dedicated to the Hindu god, Vishnu. The temple's intricate wood carvings and traditional architecture make it a masterpiece of Newa craftsmanship.

The temple complex includes beautifully maintained gardens and offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills. Its peaceful atmosphere is a fun contrast to the bustling bazaar nearby.

Shreenagar Hill

Rising 5 km from Tansen, Shreenagar Hill offers one of the best vantage points in western Nepal. From its summit, visitors can enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views encompassing the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountain ranges to the north and the sprawling valleys below.

The hill is particularly popular at sunrise and sunset when the Himalayan peaks glow in golden light. A short but rewarding hike to the top, where several viewing platforms have been established for tourists and photographers.

Ridi Bazaar

About 25 km from Rani Mahal lies this ancient trading post on the banks of the Kali Gandaki. Ridi Bazaar has served as an important commercial crossroads for centuries, connecting hill communities with the plains. The main attraction here is the Rishikesh Temple, a beautifully carved stone shrine that attracts pilgrims year-round. At the bazaar, local merchants sell everything from spices to metalware.

Travel Options and Access to Rani Mahal

Rani Mahal is accessible via multiple routes from major points in western Nepal. The options range from public transport to private vehicles. The most common starting point to the palace is Tansen (Palpa's headquarters), located 13km south of the palace. 

From Kathmandu, travelers first reach Butwal (205 km, 6 to 7 hour drive) or Pokhara (140 km, 4 to 5 hour drive), then proceed to Tansen via winding hill roads (Butwal toTansen: 41 km, 2 hours; Pokhara to Tansen: 120 km, 4 hours).

You can go from Tansen to Rani Mahal through a local bus. It is the most budget-friendly way to get to the palace but you will have to walk for 25-minute after getting off the bus. Other options to get to the Mahal include via a shared or reserved jeep or a private vehicle. 

Individuals who are particularly adventures also choose to hike from Tansen. The 13km downhill trek takes 2 to 3 hours, while return uphill takes 4 to 5 hours. The trail passes Shreenagar Hill and you get a good view of the Himalayan views.

Things to take a note of:

• The last fuel station before reaching the palace is at Tansen. There are no pumps near Rani Mahal, so make sure your tank is full when you start your trip.
• The road conditions isn’t the smoothest. You will encounter gravel/dirt track after Kailash Nagar, which is about 8 km from the palace.

Trek Me Nepal can take you on a guided trip of Rani Mahal with services catered to your personal requirements.

Activities to do at Rani Mahal

Explore the palace architecture, which is an interesting blend of Nepali, Mughal and European designs within the many rooms and courtyards.

Photograph scenic river views of Rani Mahal and the Kali Gandaki River, best captured at sunrise or sunset.

Hike from Tansen along the 13 km trail through Shreenagar Hill, with beautiful view of the Himalayas before reaching the palace.

Visit Rani Ban (Queen's Forest) to spot native birds and enjoy shaded nature walks beside the palace.

Shop for Palpali Dhaka, Nepal's famous handwoven textile, in the nearby Tansen Bazaar.

Join a guided history tour to learn about Khadga Shumsher’s love story and the palace’s on-going restoration efforts.

Picnic by the Kali Gandaki River, enjoying a peaceful riverside meal.

Attend local festivals like Dashain at nearby Bhairabsthan Temple, which is about 8 km from Rani Mahal.

Best Time To Visit Rani Mahal / Travel Weather Guide to Rani Mahal

Note: (Meteoblue, 2025)

Rani Mahal experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Spring and autumn are the most favorable times to visit, with mild to warm temperatures, dry conditions and clear skies. Spring (March to May) has pleasant days and cool nights, while autumn (September to November) brings stable weather with reduced humidity and gradually cooling temperatures.

These seasons are ideal for sightseeing, hiking and photography, with minimal rainfall and comfortable conditions throughout the day.

In contrast, summer (June to August) coincides with the monsoon season, bringing high humidity, frequent rain, and the risk of landslides and trail erosion around the site. Winter (December to February) is generally dry with crisp mornings and mild afternoons, though nights can be quite cold.

The river’s proximity and the area’s elevation contribute to cooler nights and noticeable seasonal shifts. Overall, for optimal visibility, weather, and access, the best time to visit Rani Mahal is from mid-March to early May or late September to mid-November.

Rani Mahal in Spring

Note: (Meteoblue, 2025)

Spring at Rani Mahal brings a gradual warming trend, transitioning from mild to warm conditions. March is pleasantly cool with daytime highs around 23°C and chilly nights dipping to 6°C. By April, temperatures rise noticeably, with highs reaching 30°C and nights becoming milder at around 10°C.

May maintains similar daytime warmth, hovering at a maximum of 26°C, but nights become significantly warmer at 17°C. Overall, spring is characterized by dry, sunny days and comfortable to cool nights, which is ideal for sightseeing and exploring the picturesque landscape around Rani Mahal.

Rani Mahal in Summer

Note: (Meteoblue, 2025)

Summer at Rani Mahal is warm, humid, and influenced by the monsoon. June begins with the hottest days reaching 30°C, while nights stay relatively warm at around 17°C. As monsoon rains arrive in July and August, temperatures slightly drop but humidity rises, with daytime highs around 26–27°C and nights consistently warm between 19–21°C.

Despite the cloud cover and occasional rainfall, the temperature remains stable, offering a lush and vibrant landscape, though the increased moisture can make the weather feel hotter and muggier.

Rani Mahal in Autumn

Note: (Meteoblue, 2025)

Autumn at Rani Mahal brings a refreshing shift from the monsoon humidity to clearer skies and gradually cooler temperatures. September retains some summer warmth with highs around 26°C and mild nights at 17°C. October sees a drop in both daytime and nighttime temperatures, offering comfortably warm days (24°C) and crisp evenings (11°C).

By November, the air turns distinctly cooler with highs averaging 20°C and nights dipping to a brisk 7°C. The season offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities, vibrant views of the surrounding hills, and a calm atmosphere with low rainfall and decreasing humidity.

Rani Mahal in Winter

Note: (Meteoblue, 2025)

Winter at Rani Mahal is cool and dry, marked by crisp mornings and mild afternoons. December kicks off the season with daytime highs around 17°C and chilly nights at 4°C. January is the coldest month, with temperatures dropping as low as 2°C at night and daily highs reaching only 15°C.

By February, the weather starts warming slightly, with highs climbing to 18°C and nights remaining cool at around 3–7°C. The clear skies and low humidity make winter an ideal time to visit Rani Mahal, offering serene views and a peaceful climate perfect for exploration and photography.

Tourism Development

The Nepal Tourism Board proposed converting Rani Mahal into a heritage hotel to generate revenue for conservation, including a NPR 300 million investment for water-based tourism activities some years ago.

However, many cultural experts strongly oppose this, advocating instead for museum development to preserve historical integrity (Nepal Press, 2021). Alternative proposals suggest constructing new hotels on adjacent land through public-private partnerships (PPP) without altering the palace structure.

Current tourism development in Rani Mahal focuses on:

- Improved accessibility via road widening projects along Tansen-Ranighat route.

- Adventure tourism by combining palace visits with Kali Gandaki rafting and Shreenagar Hill treks.

- Cultural experiences through local handicraft demonstrations and traditional dance performances.

The major challenges the government of Nepal is facing regarding is balancing commercial potential with preservation needs, securing sustainable funding for ongoing maintenance and addressing local community concerns about over-commercialization.

Current Status of Rani Mahal

As of 2024, Rani Mahal operates as a protected historical site under Tansen Municipality’s management. The 2017 restoration stabilized the exterior, though interior spaces remain largely empty pending further development decisions (Lamichhane, 2021).

Recent Improvements:

a) Basic visitor facilities including restrooms and information boards

b) Solar-powered lighting along pathways

c) QR code system for self-guided tours

Some ongoing issues of Rani Mahal are limited staffing for conservation and visitor services, seasonal accessibility challenges during monsoon and the continuing debate over appropriate commercial use.

The site currently generates revenue through entry fees and guided tours, with funds directed toward maintenance and local community projects.

References

Gurung, P. (2022, January 15). Rani Mahal turned into a museum. Nepal News. https://nepalnews.com/s/nation/rani-mahal-turned-into-a-museum/ 

Lamichhane, R. (2021, May 18). That’s one monumental task. The Kathmandu Post. https://kathmandupost.com/columns/2021/05/18/that-s-one-monumental-task/ 

Nepal Press. (2021, March 13). Cultural experts object to Rani Mahal being converted into heritage hotel. https://english.nepalpress.com/2021/03/13/cultural-experts-object-to-rani-mahal-being-converted-into-heritage-hotel/ 

Meteoblue. (2025). Climate & weather data for Tānsen. Meteoblue. https://www.meteoblue.com/en/weather/historyclimate/climatemodelled/tānsen_nepal_1282714