Kapilvastu, January 6:

The Lumbini Development Trust (LDT) began the excavation in the western side of the archaeological site of Kudan situated in Kapilvastu district today. Kudan is believed to be “Nigrodharam Bihar” mentioned in Buddhist scriptures.

“We are expecting to dig out the remains of the Bihar and we will work for its preservation as well,” Archaeology Officer of LDT Krishna Bahadur KC said. KC added that remains of the Bihar such as its original bricks and stones might be found in the excavation. He added that the excavation will take some time as it should be done meticulously.

Excavation and preservation process of the northern side of the Bihar began last year. The 22-meter-long side that was excavated last year is being preserved. The Bihar is 22 feet tall, 44 metre long and 33 metre wide.

Kudan is believed to be the place where Lord Buddha met his father Suddhodana for the first time after attaining enlightenment.