Congratulations by British Embassy after discovery of rare 'Apsidal' Buddhist Stupa in Tilaurakot

Kathmandu, Falgun 6. The British Embassy in Nepal has congratulated the Department of Archaeology under the Government of Nepal, the Lumbini Development Trust and Durham University of the UK on the discovery of a rare ‘apsidal’ Buddhist stupa with an apse structure in Tilaurakot (Kapilvastu).

The embassy has described the discovery as an “extraordinary achievement” and an excellent example of academic collaboration. The research and excavation work was carried out with the support of the UK’s ‘Cultural Protection Fund’ (through the British Council). According to the embassy, ​​this collaboration has made a significant contribution to the mapping of the cultural heritage that Nepal has been preserving for humanity.

What is an ‘apsidal’ stupa?

According to the research team, ‘apsidal’ means a structure with a curved back wall (aagchakhabham bhalam dhabi), which creates a focused focus for religious rituals. Such a structure is considered extremely rare in Buddhist architecture. The location and structural configuration of the stupa found in Tilaurakot-Kapilvastu are both exceptional.

Tilaurakot (Kapilvastu) is considered an important site associated with Buddhist history. The apsidal stupa found here is expected to reveal new facts about early Buddhist architecture and religious practices. It is believed that this will further strengthen the archaeological significance of the area and also strengthen efforts to preserve world heritage sites.

The British Embassy has stated that international cooperation in the conservation and research of Nepal's archaeological heritage will continue. Experts say that this discovery will add a new dimension to Buddhist studies, ancient architecture and cultural heritage research.