Nepal opened up to the outside only in 1950s. Cameras were only allowed to the Ranas and a few elites. The portraits taken before the 50s are interesting as they give a glimpse into a common man's life that are not documented otherwise.
Rana Architecture: The Ranas were heavily influenced by European style. This is evident in their fashion, art and architecture. The palaces and gardens are very distinct from the native structures and emulate Victorian England.
Singha Durbar was constructed in 1903 by Prime Minister Chandra Shumsher. He employed Kumar and Kishor Narshing. The palace was designed after the Palace of Versaille and was at that time the biggest palace in Asia, with its main structure comprising of more than 1000 rooms. It now houses govern...
Durbar Square Kathmandu before World War I, as can be seen from the uniforms of the Gurkha soldiers. The background shows Kumari Temple, which houses the Living Goddess. On the left are Anglo-Indian buildings in the Rana style belonging to the Hanuman Dhoka Palace complex, Mulki Khana and Gaddhi...