The historic palace, which is around 400 years old, will be reconstructed right from the foundation. The palace was built in 1686 BS during the reign of King Ram Shah.

Gorkha Durbar, which was not damaged by the earthquake that shook the nation in 1934, was however destroyed by the 2015 earthquake with its epicentre in Barpak, Gorkha.

The palace was demolished in the presence of officers from the Department of Archaeology. "Construction materials will be reused where possible, while the rubbles will be disposed off," said Hari Prasad Bhusal, chief at the office that looks after the palace, was quoted as saying in Rastriya Samachar Samiti.

"The palace will be rebuilt in line with its original structure and style," added Bhusal. "Building the foundation of the palace is underway."

Pachali Siva JV has been contracted for the project that would approximately cost Rs 43.7 million, and it is expected to be completed within the next three years.