Jumla’s Sinja Rural Municipality-2 hosts the under-construction Sinja Civilization Khass Museum, which remains unfinished six years after its foundation stone was laid on June 20, 2019 (Ashar 6, 2076 BS). Despite initial efforts to build this museum over a 4,000 square meter area, the incomplete structures are deteriorating.
According to Mahendra Raj Tiwari, Secretary of the Museum Construction Consumer Committee, the museum was envisioned to showcase Sinja’s historical, archaeological, religious, and cultural heritage while serving as a major tourist attraction. However, the project has been plagued by delays and shortcomings. “From the outset, I suggested constructing a museum that reflected originality, but concrete structures were prioritized. This approach has led to dissatisfaction and uncertainty about project completion,” Tiwari shared.
Historical Significance and Unprotected Heritage
Sinja holds immense historical significance, with four ancient devals (stone temples) dating back to the 13th century. While one deval lies within the museum site, three others are located outside and secured by barbed wire fencing. Additionally, eight other heritage sites are spread across the area, noted Ward Chairperson Teertha Wad of Sinja Rural Municipality-2.
Currently, the museum features three partially completed concrete buildings made using cement, iron rods, and zinc sheets. A nearby traditional mud house, part of the heritage, is crumbling due to neglect. Resident Umesh Budha emphasized the urgency of completing the museum, stating that it is vital for preserving Sinja’s historical legacy and promoting tourism.
Investment in the Museum
The construction began with an allocation of NPR 5 million in 2019, facilitated by the Karnali Province Government and the Land and Watershed Management Office, Jumla. Over six years, the project has consumed more than NPR 13.4 million, sourced from federal, provincial, and local governments.
The federal government initially allocated NPR 5 million, with NPR 2 million spent on a detailed project report (DPR) and NPR 3 million on wall construction, according to Tiwari. The rural municipality also contributed NPR 2.5 million for a library building and NPR 800,000 for a traditional structure. Additionally, NPR 5.1 million was invested in constructing the museum’s main building.
A Step Towards Tourism and Cultural Preservation
The Sinja region, established as a kingdom by King Jalandhar in 1455 BS, is rich in historical and cultural artifacts, including stone inscriptions, the Pandav Cave, Virat Palace, and Kanakasundari Temple. However, much of this heritage remains under-protected, with only remnants of ancient artifacts surviving.
Sinja Rural Municipality Chairperson Purna Prasad Dhital stated that efforts are underway to complete the museum by April 2025 (Baishakh). “The delay is a concern for everyone as this project is tied to the region’s historical importance. Once operational, the museum will not only preserve Sinja’s civilization but also facilitate research on the Khass language and promote internal and external tourism,” Dhital said.
Strategic Location to Boost Tourism
The museum is located near the Nagmagamgadhi road section, a route connecting Sinja with Rara Lake in Mugu. Dhital noted that upon completion, the museum could attract travelers heading to Rara Lake, enhancing the region’s tourism potential.
The Sinja Civilization Khass Museum holds promise as a hub for cultural preservation and a catalyst for tourism growth. However, immediate action is needed to complete the construction and unlock its full potential.
Source: RSS
