The museum located in the historic town of Panauti, Kavrepalanchok, attracted 3,500 foreign tourists in the past year. Situated within the premises of the Indreshwar Mahadev Temple, the museum has become a popular destination for international visitors exploring the area.
This museum, the first and only of its kind in the district, was established in the historic Indreshwar Mahadev Temple complex in Panauti. According to museum chief Rajendra Mahaju, the number of visitors last fiscal year was one of the highest in recent years. “Tourists who understand the significance of this museum make it a point to visit. We’ve seen a steady increase in visitors over the past few years,” Mahaju stated. The previous year, around 4,000 domestic and international tourists visited the museum.
In addition to tourists, hundreds of students from various locations visit the museum annually. Different entry fees are charged for foreign tourists, domestic tourists, and students.
The museum was established approximately 15 years ago as a repository of religious, historical, and cultural artifacts. In 2067 B.S., the Panauti Municipality inaugurated the museum to preserve the district’s, particularly Panauti’s, ancient and historical objects.
Visitors can explore exhibits that highlight Panauti’s development, ancient activities, temples, and available inscriptions. The museum also displays old coins, paper notes, and locally used household items. Mahaju mentioned that the museum showcases statues, examples of woodwork from the Malla and Shah periods, various traditional attires, and ancient weapons.
Panauti, recognized for its religious, historical, and touristic significance, is further enhanced by the presence of the museum. The museum, operated with the active involvement of locals in collaboration with the municipality, also houses handicrafts. The municipality continues to appeal to locals to provide ancient artifacts for display according to the standards set by the Department of Archaeology.
Panauti, known for its religious and historical importance, is also home to the revered Triveni Ghat and bathing areas, which hold their unique significance. The Panauti Municipality is actively working to have Panauti listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
