Born at Basantapur, Nepal
Prithvi Bir Bikram Shah
Deceasedपृथ्वी वीर विक्रम शाह देव
King of Nepal during whose reign the country's first automobiles and modern sanitation systems were introduced
About
Prithvi Bir Bikram Shah rose to Nepal’s throne in 1881. He reigned for three decades as a largely ceremonial monarch, during the height of hereditary Rana rule. A succession of powerful Rana Prime Ministers held the real power during this time.
Though he held little direct political power himself, his reign saw notable modernisation. This included the introduction of the country’s first automobiles. It also included the development of organised water and sanitation systems across much of Nepal.
He died in 1911. His son, Tribhuvan, succeeded him. Tribhuvan would later end Rana rule altogether.
Quick facts
- Born
- 1875-08-18
- Birthplace
- Basantapur, Nepal
- Profession
- Monarch
- Nationality
- Nepal
- Status
- Deceased
- Died
- 1911-12-11
Previous roles
King of Nepal
Shah dynasty · 1881-05-17–1911-12-11
Career & life timeline
- 1875-08-18
- 1881-05-17
Ascended the throne following the death of his grandfather, King Surendra
- 1911-12-11
Died at age 36; succeeded by his son, Tribhuvan
Achievements
Reign saw the introduction of the first automobiles to Nepal
Reign saw the development of modern water and sanitation systems across much of the country
Organizations & affiliations
- Shah dynasty
Related people
Last updated: 2026-09-06