Located at the center of Sundhara in Kathmandu, Dharahara (also known as Bhimsen Stambha) is an iconic 72-meter (236-foot) tower that offers you a captivating window into Nepal's architectural history. First constructed in 1832 by Prime Minister Bhimsen Thapa under the commission of Queen Lalit Tripurasundari, this landmark was historically used as a military watchtower to sound bugles and gather citizens. Having been destroyed and reconstructed after catastrophic earthquakes in 1934 and 2015, the newly rebuilt 22-story tower officially opened to the public in September 2024.
As you visit, you will admire an architectural design combining Mughal and European styles, influenced by famous Indian minarets. The modern complex features an onsite museum, a surrounding garden, a fountain, and convenient lifts alongside its traditional minaret shape. Be sure to explore the eighth floor, where a circular balcony provides you with stunning panoramic views across the Kathmandu Valley.
Topped with a 5.2-meter bronze mast, Dharahara stands today as a historic symbol of resilience and civic history that you should not miss while exploring Kathmandu.
What to see at Dharahara
- Panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley from the eighth-floor circular balcony
- Architectural design blending traditional Mughal and European styles
- Onsite complex featuring an educational museum, garden, and fountain
- Rebuilt 22-story structure honoring the historic 1832 military watchtower
Visiting tips
Take advantage of the structure's modern lifts to reach the eighth-floor observation balcony for sweeping views of the valley.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Dharahara is easy to reach on Kathmandu’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Kathmandu travel guide.
See the full Kathmandu travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.