KATHMANDU: Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has initiated efforts to complete the reconstruction of the historic Gaganeshwor Mahadev Temple, a structure believed to be around 200 years old.
The temple, located in Ward No. 32 of Kathmandu, had remained incomplete after reconstruction work funded by the provincial government stalled at the foundation stage due to budget constraints. The temple was originally destroyed in the 1990 BS earthquake in Nepal, prompting calls for its restoration.
Ashaman Sangat, coordinator of the KMC Heritage and Tourism Committee, said delays in decision-making by the Department of Archaeology have hindered progress.
He stressed the need for timely solutions, adding that in the absence of formal documentation, reconstruction decisions should be guided by local traditions, guthi records, public memory, and cultural norms. He warned that prolonged procedural delays should not obstruct development work.
Ward 32 Chair Nawaraj Parajuli said the project would move forward only after resolving disputes and ensuring consensus among stakeholders. He emphasized that public funds must be utilized responsibly and in appropriate projects.
According to Kumari Rai, head of the Heritage and Tourism Department, the committee has proposed a three-tiered (three-roofed) design for the temple. The proposal will be shared with the Department of Archaeology for further consultation with experts and stakeholders.
Currently, the reconstruction remains in its preliminary phase. Authorities have decided to conduct a technical study of visible structures above ground, while separate assessments will guide underground construction. A detailed report will be prepared before moving ahead with full-scale work.
Meanwhile, KMC is also reviewing demands for the reconstruction of the Koteshwor Mahadev Temple and assessing whether restoration or maintenance would be more appropriate for the site.
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