Gandaki, July 8: The Lamjung Palace that was built in the era of ’24 Principalities (Chaubise Rajya)’ is being reconstructed.
The Department of Archeology had initiated the palace reconstruction two years ago after its deterioration.
It is believed that the Palace was constructed in the 16th century. According to the Department’s Engineer Govinda Adhikari, around 70 percent physical progress has been made in the reconstruction of the palace. “The target is to complete the work within the next fiscal year provided no shortage of resources”, he said.
The reconstruction had started last year with a budgetary allocation of Rs 13.3 million, while the government earmarked budget of Rs 5 million for the current fiscal year.
In the first year, Bhaktapur-based construction company NPS and this year Bhaktapur-based RGS Bishnu JV were entrusted with the responsibility for rebuilding the palace.
Engineer Adhikari said the palace is being reconstructed in the ancient style and form. “The reconstruction of the historic Kalika temple along with the palace is going on simultaneously. The palace will be three-storey roof with attic and the Kalika temple will be of pagoda style.
Engineer Adhikari informed that the construction materials including bricks, wood and brick powder required for the construction of the palace were brought from Bhaktapur.
“The reconstruction of both the palace and temple is being done in a way that reflects antique architecture. As it is a structure of archaeological importance, the construction materials are expensive and also need equal volume of time and diligence”. The palace is being built in the original style and form, he informed.
Chairperson of Gaunsahar Kalika Temple Preservation and Management Committee, Rajendra Bohora said although the target was to rebuild the palace within this fiscal year, the progress of the work has been in snail pace due to budget constraints.
“This year the budget has decreased compared to the previous year and if there is not enough budget, the reconstruction of the palace will not be completed next year as well”, he said. He called for the federal, provincial and local governments to invest in the reconstruction and management of the palace, a historical heritage.
The Palace and Kalika Temple are located in Besisahar Rural Municipality-3 of Lamjung.
Bohora said that the reconstruction of the palace, which has been in a dilapidated condition, has rekindled a new hope. “If the rebuild is completed soon, the palace can be established as a tourist destination, which will spread the fame of the entire Lamjung district at home and abroad”, he said.
