BAGLUNG: The 100-year-old Galkot Palace in Baglung has witnessed a sharp rise in domestic visitors, drawing around 20,000 tourists over the past year following major preservation and beautification efforts.
Located in Harichaur Bazaar, the historic seat of the former Galkot kingdom has regained prominence after restoration work revived its original architectural features.
According to Manjesh Bam Malla, a key figure in the palace preservation campaign, improvements in the palace’s appearance, coupled with better food and accommodation services, have significantly boosted tourist interest.
The palace had deteriorated after the displacement of the Malla royal descendants during the conflict period. Now, restored windows, doors, and repaired structures have returned it to its former grandeur. A restaurant established in the palace area three years ago has further enhanced its appeal, with the old house and barn renovated for commercial use.
Manjesh, grandson of the late King Bharatbam Malla, said the restored palace—an enduring symbol of the Galkot kingdom—has become an important tourist draw. Last year alone, 20,000 visitors came to take photos, shoot videos, conduct research, and explore the heritage site, with numbers rising steadily.
Manjesh and three partners have invested Rs 5 million to operate the restaurant and have also built a fish pond on the premises, raising various fish species.
The palace and surrounding land remain in the name of Manjesh’s mother, Saroja Malla. King Bharatbam passed away in 2039 BS, after which his son Madhav Malla inherited responsibility for the palace. Madhav, who lived there with his family, was killed inside the palace during the conflict.
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