Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: The US Embassy in Kathmandu has awarded a $244,966 grant to establish a conservation laboratory at the Lumbini Museum.
“The US Embassy in Nepal, through the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP), has awarded a $244,966 grant to the Buddha Foundation to conserve, document, and preserve the museum’s invaluable collection of ancient artifacts. This funding will also establish a state-of-the-art conservation lab, creating a regional hub for archaeological preservation,” the embassy said in a statement.
US Embassy Public Affairs Chief Michael Harker inaugurated the Conservation of Lumbini Museum Project on Wednesday.
“The establishment of this conservation lab represents a historic step forward for Lumbini, transforming it into a regional center for archaeological research and preservation,” Harker said. “This project not only protects irreplaceable artifacts but also creates opportunities for innovation and collaboration that will position Nepal as a leader in cultural heritage conservation.”
Home to over 300 artifacts dating from the 6th century BCE to the 3rd century CE, the Lumbini Museum safeguards terracotta figurines, stone sculptures, coins, and other relics excavated from the sacred site of Lumbini.
Over the past two decades, the US Embassy in Kathmandu has funded 28 cultural heritage restoration projects in Nepal, totaling over $4.54 million, through the ambassador’s fund.
