KATHMANDU: The reconstruction of the historic Lamjung Palace, dating back to the era of '24 Principalities (Chaubise Rajya)', began two years ago under the initiative of the Department of Archeology due to its deteriorated state. Believed to have been originally built in the 16th century, the palace has seen significant progress, with approximately 70 percent of the physical reconstruction completed, according to Engineer Govinda Adhikari from the Department.
Funded initially with Rs 13.3 million and an additional Rs 5 million allocated for the current fiscal year, the reconstruction is being carried out by Bhaktapur-based construction companies NPS and RGS Bishnu JV. Engineer Adhikari highlighted that both the palace and the nearby Kalika Temple are being restored to their original architectural style. The palace will feature a three-story roof with an attic, while the Kalika Temple is being rebuilt in a traditional pagoda style, using construction materials sourced from Bhaktapur.
Despite progress, Chairperson Rajendra Bohora of the Gaunsahar Kalika Temple Preservation and Management Committee expressed concerns over budget constraints slowing down the project. He emphasized the importance of continued government investment from federal, provincial, and local levels to ensure timely completion and effective management of this historical heritage in Besisahar Rural Municipality-3 of Lamjung.
Bohora also noted that upon completion, the restored palace could serve as a prominent tourist attraction, enhancing the cultural and economic prospects for Lamjung district locally and internationally.
