About Askot Palace
Askot Palace, also known as Rajbar Palace, is a historic royal residence and fort complex established in 1279 CE by Raja Abhay Pal of the Katyuri dynasty. Located on a ridge at 1,100 meters altitude overlooking the confluence of Goriganga and Kali rivers in Pithoragarh district, the palace served as the capital of the Askot principality for over seven centuries. The site features traditional Kumaoni stone-and-timber architecture and holds strategic importance along the ancient Kailash-Mansarovar pilgrimage route.
Visitors guide
Visitors can explore the historic Rajbar Palace complex featuring multi-story stone-and-timber structures with carved wooden balconies and royal courtyards. The site offers panoramic views of the Goriganga and Kali river confluence and surrounding Himalayan peaks. Remnants of ancient fortifications, including ramparts and watchtowers, remain visible. The sacred Mallikarjun Mahadev Temple within the complex serves as the family shrine. The palace grounds provide insight into traditional Kumaoni hill architecture and the region's royal heritage.
Key highlights
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Historic Rajbar Palace with traditional Kumaoni stone-and-timber architecture
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Founded in 1279 CE by Raja Abhay Pal of the Katyuri dynasty
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Panoramic views of Goriganga and Kali river confluence from ridge location
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Sacred Mallikarjun Mahadev Temple within the palace complex
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Remnants of ancient fortifications and defensive structures
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Strategic location on historic Kailash-Mansarovar pilgrimage route
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Surrounded by Askot Musk Deer Wildlife Sanctuary
History of Askot Palace
Askot Palace was established in 1279 CE by Raja Abhay Pal, a grandson of the last unified Katyuri monarch King Brahm Deo. The name Askot derives from 'Assi Kot' meaning eighty forts, referring to the ring of defensive fortifications built across the region. The Pal dynasty ruled Askot as a sovereign principality from 1279 to 1588, later maintaining semi-autonomous status under Chand kings, Gorkha rule, and British administration. The palace served as a vital staging post on the Kailash-Mansarovar pilgrimage highway and controlled trade routes between Tibet, Nepal, and Kumaon. The Zamindari system was formally abolished in 1950 after India's independence.
Culture & Context
The palace represents the cultural heritage of the Katyuri dynasty and Kumaoni hill architecture. It holds religious significance as home to the Mallikarjun Mahadev Temple, the ancient family shrine of the Pal Rajbars. The site is culturally important as a historic stopover for Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims traveling to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar. The present ceremonial head of the dynasty continues to maintain connections with the palace heritage.