Swayambhu Mahachaitya Dome Cleaning and Renovation Begins

Kathmandu. The work to remove the thick layer of lime that has been accumulating on the dome of Swayambhu Mahachaitya, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a major center of faith for Buddhists, has begun.

A cleaning and renovation campaign has been launched with the objective of preserving the archaeological, historical, and cultural significance of the Mahachaitya. According to tradition, devotees have been painting the Mahachaitya with white lime on various religious occasions, including Buddha Purnima. As lime is added annually, a thick layer accumulates on the dome, necessitating the removal of the old layer after a certain period.

Currently, the accumulated lime layer on the dome has been found to be 13 to 15 inches thick. It is stated that excessive lime accumulation puts additional load on the structure and risks obscuring the original shape, roundness, and archaeological form of the Mahachaitya.

During the cleaning conducted about 12-13 years ago, the lime layer accumulated on the dome was found to be 22 to 30 inches thick. Since then, lime has been regularly applied, resulting in the formation of a thick layer again.

Under the permission and technical supervision of the Department of Archaeology, employees of the Swayambhu Management Committee and skilled artisans are carefully removing the old lime. It has been informed that special precautions are being taken to ensure that the main structure is not damaged during the cleaning.

The cleaning work is expected to be completed within about a month. It is believed that after cleaning, the Mahachaitya will be visible again with its original archaeological form and ancient beauty.

The conservation campaign of Swayambhu Mahachaitya, which has a deep connection with the history, culture, and civilization of the Kathmandu Valley, is being closely watched by the local community, Buddhist monks, heritage experts, and heritage lovers. Conservationists consider this campaign an important effort to preserve the originality of the World Heritage site. Photo: Suryams Upreti/Nepal Photo Library