Asia · Age of Revolutions

Who was Prithvi Narayan Shah?

The king who unified numerous small Himalayan kingdoms into modern Nepal through a series of military campaigns, laying the foundation of the Nepali state.

Prithvi Narayan Shah (1723–1775) is remembered as a key figure from Nepal, known for their role: Founding King of unified Nepal.

Country / regionNepal · Asia
Known forFounding King of unified Nepal
Years1723–1775
BornGorkha, Gorkha Kingdom
DiedNuwakot, Kingdom of Nepal

Why is Prithvi Narayan Shah important?

Prithvi Narayan Shah stands out in history for a specific reason: Ruled the small Gorkha Kingdom from 1743 before beginning his campaign of unification. Their story helps place major events, ideas, and cultural change in a wider historical context.

Key achievements

  • Ruled the small Gorkha Kingdom from 1743 before beginning his campaign of unification
  • Conquered the Kathmandu Valley and numerous surrounding principalities through military campaigns
  • Founded the unified Kingdom of Nepal, ruling it from 1768 until his death in 1775
  • Established Kathmandu as the capital of the newly unified nation

A fast fact

Prithvi Narayan Shah relocated his capital to the Kathmandu Valley after conquering it, establishing Kathmandu as the seat of power for the unified Nepali state.

Legacy

Prithvi Narayan Shah is regarded as the founder of the modern Nepali state, and he remains one of the most celebrated figures in Nepali national history.

Nepalage of revolutionsrulers

What is Prithvi Narayan Shah best known for?

The king who unified numerous small Himalayan kingdoms into modern Nepal through a series of military campaigns, laying the foundation of the Nepali state.

When and where did Prithvi Narayan Shah live?

Prithvi Narayan Shah was born in Gorkha, Gorkha Kingdom (1723–1775) and died in Nuwakot, Kingdom of Nepal.

What is Prithvi Narayan Shah's lasting legacy?

Prithvi Narayan Shah is regarded as the founder of the modern Nepali state, and he remains one of the most celebrated figures in Nepali national history.

How can I learn more about Prithvi Narayan Shah?

Use this profile as a starting point, then consult a library, museum, encyclopedia, or primary-source collection for deeper study.