Placed in context by a distinguished contemporary scholar of Nepalese history, this work by a colonial doctor and artist contains a fascinating account of mid-19th century Nepal. It introduces us to a dramatic array of personalities from the royal families, their intrigues, murderous at times, and changing fortunes. Starting from ancient history, the narration goes on to the Gorkha conquest in 1767 and the ultimate growth of British influence and power in the following decades. As it progresses, it provides glimpses of a wide range of subjects, including the country’s natural beauty, its distinctive geographical features, its people, routes into the country, temples, the parda system, caste divisions, hunting practices, wild animals, capital punishment, the layout of towns, and the architecture of the royal buildings. This book will interest general readers for its entertaining style and specialists for its scholarly value.
