KAPILVASTU: Two historic stupas at Tilaurakot, associated with the childhood and youth of Gautam Buddha, are awaiting proper conservation.
Tilaurakot, where Siddhartha Gautam is believed to have spent 29 years before attaining enlightenment, is an important pilgrimage destination for Buddhists and tourists from around the world.
The twin stupas are located in the northwestern part of the historic Tilaurakot palace complex. One is larger than the other, and both are believed to have been constructed in memory of Buddha’s father, Shuddhodhana, and mother, Mayadevi.
Kapilvastu is home to numerous historical and archaeological sites associated with Buddha. However, many of these heritage sites have deteriorated due to inadequate conservation. Some remain only as mounds, while others have been excavated but have yet to receive systematic preservation.
Local resident Shivshankar Kandu said the Department of Archaeology, Lumbini Development Trust and local governments should take timely measures to protect such important heritage sites. He warned that the archaeological structures could face further deterioration if conservation efforts are delayed.
“If such important heritage sites are not preserved on time, they cannot be restored in the future simply by searching for or reconstructing them,” he said.
Local guide Rajkumar Yadav said the twin stupas, which remain exposed to the elements, are gradually being damaged by sunlight, rain and other natural factors. He said the site needs a protective roof and surrounding fence, along with regular cleaning and maintenance.
Damodar Sapkota, head of the Lumbini Development Trust’s Tilaurakot office, said a plan has been prepared to construct a security wall around the stupas during the current fiscal year as part of conservation efforts. He also said the site faces a shortage of personnel for regular cleaning and maintenance.
The Department of Archaeology excavated the stupas in 1968 and 1969. Archaeologists believe they may have been constructed in memory of Mayadevi and Suddhodhana.
According to archaeological studies, the larger stupa, believed to date back to the fourth century, was constructed in four phases. The smaller stupa, meanwhile, is believed to have been built in a single phase.
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