Explore and Research the History of the Gurkhas

Explore and Research the History of the Gurkhas

“Bravest of the brave, most generous of the generous, never had country more faithful friends than you”. Professor Sir Ralph Lilley Turner MC, former Gurkha Officer

The Gurkha’s service to Britain originated during the Anglo-Nepal war in the early 19th century and arose out of each side’s respect for the others honour, bravery and fighting capabilities. Since then they have loyally served Britain as part of the British Indian Army for over a century, fighting for and defending us through numerous wars, campaigns and periods of political unrest. Following the Partition of India in 1947, an agreement between Nepal, India and Britain meant four Gurkha regiments from the Indian Army were transferred to the British Army, eventually becoming the Brigade of Gurkhas.

More than 200,000 fought in the two world wars, and in the past 50 years they have served in Hong Kong, Malaysia, Borneo, Cyprus, the Falklands, Kosovo, Iraq and most recently Afghanistan. Gurkhas today continue to protect and serve Britain with regiments across the UK and the world manned by Nepali soldiers and officers and British officers, a blend of culture that makes the Brigade of Gurkhas unique. Gurkhas are known for their professionalism, fighting prowess, humour and humility, qualities that distinguish themselves in a variety of roles from military deployments to training and public duties and supporting humanitarian efforts.

Explore Gurkha History & Our Collections

The Anglo-Nepal Treaty of 1923

Celebrating and reflecting upon one hundred years of an enduring friendship “There shall be perpetual peace and friendship between the Governments of Great Britain and...

George Wheeler VC

Regiment 9th Gurkha Rifles Date 23rd February 1917   See more Gurkha Victoria Cross stories here

The significance of Dashain within The Brigade of Gurkhas

Dashain is the most auspicious festival in Nepal and of Hinduism. It takes place in the bright lunar fortnight of September/October every year, ending on...

The story behind this Gurkha family

Recently we were sent an image online asking if we could identify who was in it and its story. The only lead we had was...

Our Research Facilities

The Gurkha Museum holds records and archive material from over 200 years of Gurkha History, including documentation from the period of the earliest Gurkha recruitment into Britain’s forces in 1815. The museum’s records document the expansion of the Brigade and their actions in the 19th century along the North-West Frontier, and records detailing the role of the Gurkhas in both World Wars. 

© The Gurkha Museum Trust Winchester - Registered Charity Number 1169920 (formerly 272426)