The National Museum is located in the western part of Kathmandu near the Swoyambhunath stupa in the historical building which was constructed in early 19th century by General Bhimsen Thapa. It is the most important museum in the country, housing an extensive collection of weapons, art and antiquities of historic and cultural importance. The museum was established in 1928 as a collection house of war trophies and weapons, and the initial name of this museum was Chhauni Silkhana, which literally means "the stone house of arms and ammunition". Given its focus, the museum contains an extensive quantity of weapons, including locally made firearms used in various wars and leather canons from the 18th-19th century and medieval and modern works in wood, bronze, stone, and paintings.There are three buildings within the museum premises:  The main historical building, Juddha Jatiya Kalashala and Buddhist Art Gallery.

It is open daily,except on tuesdays and on government holidays from 10:30 am to 3 pm.Note that the museum is only open from 10:30 am to 2 pm on Fridays.