Jaulakhel Durbar, Rana palace in Jawalakhel, Lalitpur, Nepal.
Jaulakhel Durbar is a palace in Kathmandu that combines classical, Mughal, and European design features. The building features large courtyards and gardens surrounding the main structure.
Construction of the palace started in the 1940s under orders from a senior Rana leader and was completed years later. It served as a residence for the ruling family for an extended period.
The palace shows how Rana rulers mixed Nepali building styles with European and Mughal design ideas. This blend is visible in the decorations and room layouts throughout the structure.
The building is now in public use and can be viewed from the outside. The gardens and courtyards are visible from the street and give a good sense of the overall layout.
Part of the palace grounds was later turned into a zoo where various animals were kept. This unusual transformation shows how the purpose of the site changed over time.
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