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KATHMANDU, July 29: The historic Shree Gusthal Mahabihar and Agam of Prathamshree Mahabihar in Guita Tole, Patan, Lalitpur, have been restored and inaugurated almost a decade after the devastating earthquake of 2015, marking a significant step in safeguarding Nepal’s living cultural heritage. The reconstruction, financed by the Government of India with approximately Rs 120 million, was carried out under its post-earthquake assistance programme, reads a statement issued by the Embassy of India in Kathmandu.
The inauguration ceremony on Monday was jointly led by Member of Parliament Jagdish Kharel, Lalitpur Metropolitan City Mayor Chiribabu Maharjan, and Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava. Traditional rituals and the unveiling of an inaugural plaque were performed in the presence of officials from the Central Level Project Implementation Unit (CLPIU–Building & Housing), representatives of the local community, and officials from the Indian Embassy.
Five years after the 2015 earthquake, Gorkha stands strong
Implemented by CLPIU under the Government of Nepal, with design and project management consultancy provided by the Indian National Trust for Arts and Cultural Heritage (INTACH), the project reflects coordinated efforts to restore heritage sites damaged in the 2015 earthquake, added the statement.
Speaking at the event, Kharel commended the resilience of the local community and underscored the importance of preserving ancient bihar complexes as living heritage. Mayor Maharjan expressed gratitude for India’s support in rebuilding cultural sites in Lalitpur and beyond, while acknowledging the active role of local residents. Ambassador Srivastava emphasized the deep-rooted cultural ties between Nepal and India, noting that the restored site symbolizes shared heritage and enduring friendship.
According to the Embassy of India, the restoration is part of a wider programme that includes conservation of 30 cultural heritage sites across eight districts, reconstruction of 50,000 private houses in Gorkha and Nuwakot, 85 educational institutions, and 133 health facilities in 11 districts.
Officials said the project not only strengthens Nepal’s post-earthquake recovery but also highlights the longstanding development partnership between Nepal and India, reinforcing cultural and historical bonds through tangible restoration.
