Questions on the uniform of the Gurkhas

[Andrei1975]

Good evening friends! I decided to add a detachment of Gurkhas to my British colonial army. Can I get information about the Gurkhah uniform for the 2nd Afghan war? Were they wearing hacks during that period?

[Will Bailie]

From my (unfortunately limited) research, Gurkha soldiers wore the pillbox hat.  Uniforms could have been either khaki or rifle green, with black equipment (i.e., belts), although khaki seems to have been more likely used in the field

From 'The British Empire' website: http://www.britishempire.co.uk/forces/armyuniforms/gurkhasmenu.htm

Wearing khaki in Afghanstan in 1880


Rifle Green was (and is) dress uniform:




And it looks like they could mix and match, as in this 1882 photo (green trousers, khaki tops)

[Will Bailie]

For what it's worth, I painted my Gurkhas in rifle green, mostly as I was bored of painting khaki!

[Andrei1975]

Yes, I also have these images:

[DintheDin]

Some useful information here
https://thegurkhamuseum.co.uk/the-gurkha-hat/
(Gurkha Museum)

[Rogerc]

Personally I would go Khaki, although like other units wearing green trousers in winter would be likely and probably look pretty nice.

[HerbyF]

I painted my Gurkhas in rifle green too.

[whill4]

I painted mine with khaki jackets and green pants.

[Mad Guru]

Personally, I paint my Gurkhas in rifle green, since I think it makes them stand out, and to me it's the "iconic" Gurkha uniform, but as shown in the collection of illustrations, you can really take your choice amongst all khaki, all rifle green, or the less-common but still legit  khaki tunics & green trousers.  Same for khaki or green or black puttees OR black leather gaiters.  Whatever you think will look best.

[Andrei1975]

Thank you friends for your comments!