Though the renovation of the palace completed two years ago, no decision has been taken on opening the palace for the public yet.[break]
Access of the public to the palace was closed after the palace’s condition deteriorated owing to the damaged caused specially by the earthquakes of 1890 and 1990 BS.
The palace also houses the wall painting of the Biwhworup Krishna which is considered one of the best paintings in the world. The palace was build by Bhupatindra Malla in 1356 BS.
The palace with archaeological and historical importance was renovated jointly by the Department of Archaeology and Bhaktapur Municipality by using traditional materials and without affecting its traditional touch.
The phase-wise renovation cost Rs 17.8 million, less than the estimated Rs 21.8 million, according to the chief of Heritage Protection and Palace Management Office Aruna Nakarmi.
The most difficult task in the renovation was to preserve the painting of Bishworup in the first floor. The painting has been preserved by using chemicals, foams and frames, according to overseer Amrit Shakya.
After the renovation, the temple’s structure has been restored to the structure it had before the earthquake.
Likewise, the modern tiles have been removed from the roof with traditional jhingati. The renovation was initially delayed due to failure to arrange long timber. Over 42 percent of the timber used in the renovation is the old one.
Three different committees had been formed to execute the renovation task as the renovation was very sensitive and complicated. The renovation of the palace has been a model project. It has been renovated by following the archaeological standards.
Culture expert Om Krishna Dhaubadel said locals and researchers would getter better chance to understand about the palace if it is opened for the public.
Related story
Tiger Palace Resort Bhairahawa rebrands as ‘Tiger Palace by Soa...
