Historic Bayalkanda Fort undergoing reconstruction

By Rajani Yogi,Surkhet, May 27: The reconstruction and preservation of a historic fort in Surkhet has begun, aiming to make it an attractive tourist destination. Located in Birendranagar Municipality–14, Bayalkanda Fort is being restored under the supervision of the Department of Archaeology.

A budget of Rs. 700,000 has been allocated for the project in the current fiscal year. The Nepali Army's Kapase Barracks is overseeing the reconstruction and Yamji Construction has been assigned to complete the reconstruction work.

According to the head of the company, Resham Dhakal, excavation and rebuilding were going on to make the fort more visible and presentable.

Due to the lack of written records, the reconstruction is being done based on the guidance provided by the Department of Archaeology. Although the fort attracts both domestic and international tourists, years of neglect have put its historical value at risk.

One local, Nawaraj Rokaya said that while the reconstruction is a good start, it would not be enough. He emphasised the need to study and preserve other damaged structures as well.

Bayalkanda Fort stands at an altitude of 1,522 meters above sea level and covers five kattha and 13 dhur of land. It once served as the administrative centre of Surkhet and was a vibrant area during the rule of the (Bisey–Chaubisey) principlaities, the Rana regime and the early Panchayat era.

In 2019 BS, a malaria eradication office was set up at the fort. Later, in 2023 BS, government offices were relocated to Birendranagar. After the eradication of malaria in 2022 BS, the area slowly became deserted.

It is believed that the fort was under the control of the Belaspur State of Dailekh and may have been destroyed during a battle with the Gorkhali army during Nepal’s unification campaign. 

Although no official records confirm this, a stone inscription found at the site mentions a victory led by Kalu Pande and Satrughan Shahi.

Visitors to the fort can enjoy panoramic views of Birendranagar Valley, Barahatal, and Gurans Rural Municipality of Dailekh. 

The fort is a popular spot for sunrise and sunset views. During winter, people visit to bask in the sun, while in summer, the cool breeze attracts locals escaping the heat. On Saturdays and public holidays, the nearby Gothikanda area sees a surge of domestic tourists. Fencing around the fort has been done to protect the site.