The historic Diyalo Bangla in Bharatpur has officially opened its doors to the public today. The grand opening was conducted by the Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Mr. Hit Bahadur Tamang, who highlighted the significance of making this historic site accessible to all citizens for both study and tourism purposes.
The decision to open the Diyalo Bangla, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Nepal Trust, was made following a request from the Bharatpur Metropolitan City. Minister Tamang emphasized that this initiative would play a crucial role in the success of the Bharatpur Visit Year 2024. He also expressed optimism that the expansion of Bharatpur Airport, along with the introduction of night flights and reduced fares, would boost the number of tourists visiting the area. “The responsibility for the operation and management of the Diyalo Bangla has been entrusted to Bharatpur Metropolitan City, which is expected to significantly contribute to the increase in tourist numbers,” said Minister Tamang. He added that the Nepal Trust has been utilizing the properties of the former royal family for study, observation, and other necessary uses.
Bharatpur Metropolitan City Mayor, Ms. Renu Dahal, explained that the decision to open the Bangla was made in agreement with the Nepal Trust, coinciding with the Bharatpur Visit Year. “For years, the public has been curious about this palace, and now they will have the chance to see it firsthand. This initiative is expected to attract both domestic and international tourists,” said Mayor Dahal. She also mentioned that until a formal operating procedure is established, the Bangla will be open for free visits. Highlighting the city’s exploration of other tourist destinations, Mayor Dahal noted that although there are seven main destinations within the metropolitan area, the Diyalo Bangla’s operation marks a significant milestone.
An agreement has been reached between the Metropolitan City and the Nepal Trust regarding revenue distribution, where 60% of the revenue will go to the Nepal Trust and 40% to Bharatpur Metropolitan City. The Trust has handed over the Bangla to the city after conducting renovations worth NPR 9.2 million.
The Diyalo Bangla, located in Bharatpur Metropolitan City-1, was historically used by the former royal family during the winter months. The palace features a grand meeting room on the first floor, adorned with portraits of the former King Mahendra and King Birendra. A gharial crocodile hunted by King Mahendra in 1969 is displayed on the staircase, and a tiger’s head is mounted on the wall, preserved in its original state.
Deputy Mayor of Bharatpur Metropolitan City, Mr. Chitrasen Adhikari, remarked that despite the historical significance of the site, it had remained inaccessible to the general public. The city’s initiative to open it to everyone aims to change that. Spanning over 57 bighas, 13 kathas, and 7 dhurs, the serene and picturesque site is further enhanced by the Narayani River flowing to the west of the palace.
Sunita Gautam, a member of the Nepal Trust’s board of directors, described Diyalo Bangla as an ideal location for promoting tourism. She highlighted its importance in understanding the history of the royal family and noted that the Trust had previously opened the Ratna Mandir in Pokhara to the public. Plans are also underway to open the Kanti Ishwari residence in Makwanpur.
President of the Hotel Entrepreneurs’ Association, Mr. Dinesh Kumar Chuke, praised the collaborative efforts of local and private sectors in promoting tourism. He emphasized that coordinated efforts between the government and private sectors could lead to significant progress in the development of the tourism industry.
