Gorkha Kingdom Founded
Drabya Shah establishes the Gorkha Kingdom, laying the foundation for the future Nepali state.
Early Gorkhali Army
Initial standing army organized under Gorkha rulers, primarily for local defense and expansion.
Prithvi Narayan Shah Begins Unification
King Prithvi Narayan Shah ascends the throne and formally organizes the army, launching the campaign to unify Nepal.
Conquest of Kathmandu Valley
The Gorkhali Army conquers the Malla kingdoms of Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhadgaon, making Kathmandu the capital.
Unification Completed (Initial Phase)
Following Prithvi Narayan Shah's death, the unification campaign continued, consolidating much of modern Nepal.
Anglo-Nepalese War
Conflict with the British East India Company. Despite territorial losses (Sugauli Treaty), Gorkhali bravery was recognized.
Kot Massacre & Rana Regime
Jung Bahadur Rana consolidates power, establishing the hereditary Rana Prime Ministership; army loyalty shifts.
World War I
Nepali soldiers (Gurkhas) serve with distinction alongside the Allied forces, particularly with the British Army.
World War II
Gurkhas again play a crucial role for the Allies across multiple theatres, earning numerous gallantry awards.
End of Rana Regime & Royal Nepali Army
Democracy introduced; King Tribhuvan takes control. The army is formally named the Royal Nepali Army.
First UN Peacekeeping Mission
Nepal Army deploys observers to Lebanon (UNOGIL), beginning its long history of international peacekeeping.
People's Movement I (Jana Andolan I)
Army maintains neutrality during protests leading to constitutional monarchy and multi-party democracy.
Maoist Insurgency
Decade-long civil war; the Army engages in counter-insurgency operations across the country.
People's Movement II (Jana Andolan II)
Mass protests lead to the end of direct royal rule; Army supports the transition to a republic.
Republic Declared & Nepal Army Renamed
Nepal becomes a Federal Democratic Republic. The 'Royal' prefix is dropped; becomes the 'Nepal Army'.
Integration of Maoist Combatants
Process begins to integrate former Maoist combatants into the Nepal Army under the peace agreement.
Nepal Earthquake Response
Army plays a critical role in search, rescue, relief distribution, and rebuilding efforts after the devastating earthquake.
Digital Transformation
Ongoing initiatives to modernize communication, cybersecurity, and command systems for enhanced operational efficiency.
Top UN Peacekeeping Contributor
Nepal achieves the rank of the largest troop contributor to UN peacekeeping missions globally.
Legacy of Service and Global Contribution
Gurkha Heritage
The legendary discipline and valor of Nepali soldiers (Gurkhas) earned global renown, forming a core part of British and Indian army traditions, symbolized by their motto: “Kaphar hunu bhanda marnu ramro” (Better to die than be a coward).
Peacekeeping Excellence
Since 1958, Nepal has been a major contributor to UN peacekeeping, deploying personnel to numerous conflict zones globally, consistently ranking among the top troop-contributing nations.