Conservation and Reconstruction of Gusthal Mahavihara and Agam of Prathamashri Mahavihara, Lalitpur, Nepal

The monastery complex refers to three Bahils or ancient monasteries located at the eastern most edge of the old Patan settlement area in Kathmandu Valley. It is believed to have been established during the 1st century CE- 10th century CE. The Mahavihara is the oldest of the three monasteries in the complex and has a high historical significance. The three mahaviharas are located adjoining each other and the main shrines in these monasteries observe daily rituals and special ones are held during auspicious days.

In Gusthal Mahavihara, the main shrine survived the earthquake with some major damages, but the Digi Chhen completely collapsed disrupting all its cultural functions and practices.The surviving buildings in these two monasteries are tilting and out-of-plumb, integrity of load bearing wall is poor and has undergone temporary repair works.The Prathamashri Mahavihara has the largest courtyard among the three Bahils and only the main shrine and Agam have survived and retain its original function.

The Agam of Prathamashri Mahavihara and the Gusthal Mahavihara is proposed for reconstruction using material close to the original building material at the time of its construction and as per traditional architectural design and building practices of Bahil architecture. The conservation strategy for the site is to restore the original character of the monastery complex, ensuring earthquake safety of the buildings and incorporating building services to meet its daily public needs.

Project Cost- NPR14.70Crore; USD- 1.25Million

Map Link: http://goo.gl/maps/dTeHnyNmZDaRW5vX9