The old fortress town of Nuwakot used to be an important strategic outpost. It controlled the ancient trade routes to Tibet and the kings of medieval Nepal maintained large garrisons here. Nuwakot possesses a number of artistic buildings on the hill top which recall the traditional architecture of the Kathmandu valley. It offers terrific views of the mountains and the surrounding rural villages . The palace of Nuwakot was once the palace of the great King Prithvi Narayan Shah, who conquered Nuwakot before conquering the Kathmandu valley. There are regular bus services to Trishuli from Kathmandu. The hill top of Nuwakot can be reached by Jeep from Trishuli in half an hour. A short trek of about one hour will also take you to the hill top.