TAULIHAWA: Excavation and exploration have started in ancient Tilaurakot where the palace of King Suddhodan, father of Gautam Buddha, stood.

With the financial assistance of UNESCO, excavation works have begun at the historical site in Kapilvastu district.

Excavation around the Kanthak Stupa located outside the eastern gate of Tilaurakot palace site is to be accomplished this year, informed Vice-Chairperson of Lumbini Development Fund, Bhikchhu Maitreya.

This year, excavation works will be undertaken around Samayamai Temple, Madhya Samrachana premises and Kanthak Stupa within the Tilaurakot palace area, said Chief of Department of Archaeology, Ram Bahadur Kunwar.