Fifth century Napichandra Mahavihar in Lalitpur reconstructed with Indian assistance

Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava and Mayor of Lalitpur Metropolitan City Chiri Babu Maharjan jointly inaugurated the new building of Shree Napichandra Mahavihar, Lalitpur built at a cost of NPR 3.84 cr under Government of India’s post-earthquake reconstruction Grant in the cultural heritage sector in Nepal. Buddhiraj Bajracharya, President of Lalitpur Development Society, representatives of local community, representatives of INTACH (Indian National Trust for Art and Culture Heritage) for the project and officials from the Government of Nepal were also present in the event.

The fifth century Buddhist Stupa situated in Lalitpur district, 7 km east of Kathmandu was severely damaged during the 2015 great earthquake. The project has been implemented by Central Level Project Implementation Unit, Government of Nepal. The reconstruction works were carried out under the technical assistance of INTACH, India.

In his remarks Ambassador highlighted the various aspects of the robust ongoing development co-operation between India and Nepal and mentioned that it is a significant aspect of India-Nepal bilateral partnership. Lalitpur Mayor Maharjan thanked Government of India for its support to Lalitpur through its heritage conservation initiatives.

India and Nepal have historic cultural similarities and heritage to preserve for our future generations. Therefore, it is our common endeavor to restore these heritage sites. India has been working with Nepal for restoration of cultural heritage projects in past too. It’s a reflection of our common culture which is the strength of our friendly relationship. Including this India has been providing support for the reconstruction of half a dozen earthquake damaged heritage sites in Lalitpur.