A joint ceremony marked the inauguration of the newly reconstructed cultural heritage sites, Gustal Mahavihar and the Agam of Prathamshree Mahavihar, at Guita Tol in Patan, Lalitpur, on July 28, 2026 (Shrawan 12, 2083 BS). Member of Parliament Jagdish Kharel, Mayor of Lalitpur Metropolitan City Chiri Babu Maharjan, and Ambassador of India to Nepal Naveen Srivastava jointly inaugurated the sites. The dignitaries unveiled the inauguration plaques and took part in traditional rituals and ceremonial proceedings.
The inauguration event witnessed participation from officials representing the Central Level Project Implementation Unit (Building and Housing) under the Ministry of Urban Development, Government of Nepal. Representatives from the local community and officials from the Embassy of India in Kathmandu were also present to mark the completion of the restoration work.
The reconstruction of Gustal Mahavihar and the Agam of Prathamshree Mahavihar was completed at a cost of approximately NPR 12 crore under the Government of India's post-earthquake reconstruction grant assistance. The project was executed by the Central Level Project Implementation Unit (Building and Housing) of the Government of Nepal, with design and project management consultancy services rendered by the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH).
Speaking at the event, Member of Parliament Jagdish Kharel praised the resilience of the local community and emphasized the necessity of preserving ancient living heritage sites such as Gustal Mahavihar. He expressed appreciation for the support extended by the Government of India in restoring cultural heritage sites across the country.
Mayor Chiri Babu Maharjan highlighted the contributions made by the Government of India toward the reconstruction and restoration of cultural heritage sites in Lalitpur and other districts of Nepal. He also commended the active cooperation provided by the local community throughout the execution of the project.
In his address, Ambassador Naveen Srivastava highlighted the deep-rooted cultural ties binding India and Nepal. He detailed India's continuous assistance in restoring Nepal's historical monuments, stating that these reconstructed structures stand as enduring symbols of shared heritage and friendship between the two nations.
Under its post-earthquake reconstruction assistance, the Government of India has supported the conservation of 30 cultural heritage sites across eight districts in Nepal. India's reconstruction assistance also extends to the rebuilding of 50,000 private houses in Gorkha and Nuwakot districts, 85 educational institutions across eight districts, and 133 health infrastructure facilities in 11 districts.
This restoration project underlines the efforts of the Government of Nepal in post-earthquake recovery while reflecting the deep and broad development partnership shared between India and Nepal.
