The Dhampalthan Village Municipality, named after King Dhanpal, is awaiting the preservation and promotion of its significant archaeological heritage. Despite its historical importance, the area has been largely overlooked due to a lack of proper conservation efforts.
Situated in Ward No. 7 of Dhampalthan Village Municipality, the site, locally referred to as “King Dhanpal’s Estate,” spans approximately four bighas of land. The municipality was restructured and named Dhampalthan Village Municipality after merging the former Nocha, Kadmaha, Dadarbairiya, Amahi Bariyati, and Sorabhag VDCs, according to Sanjay Singh, Chairman of the King Dhanpal Estate Preservation and Development Committee.
The estate includes several old shelters in dilapidated conditions. Statues of Goddess Ranakali and King Dhanpal, made by the preservation committee in 2000, have also deteriorated over time, Singh reported.
Numerous archaeological artifacts and statues have been discovered in and around the estate. In 2014, local farmer Raghusingh Nuniya found an ancient metal statue of Lord Vishnu while plowing a field near the estate. The statue is now under the custody of the Rangeli Area Police Office for protection, Singh added.
Chairman Singh also mentioned that in 1960, various old metal utensils and artifacts were discovered while excavating a nearby pond, but their current whereabouts are unknown to the locals.
Resident Ucchitlal Mandal noted that ancient clay bricks, approximately one and a half feet long and wide, are often found when digging in the estate area. “Many ancient structures are uncovered here. By excavating, preserving, and promoting this area, we can enhance tourism,” he said.
Another local, Rajendra Kamat, pointed out that due to the lack of excavation and study, the exact era of King Dhanpal remains unknown. “There is a legend that the temple here was built by the ancient King Virat,” he added.
Chairman of the Village Municipality, Jivach Prasad Gachhadar, emphasized the need for the Department of Archaeology to conduct detailed studies to uncover historical facts. He mentioned plans to construct a wall and install statues around a temple built by the municipality in the Dhampalthan area.
However, Chairman Gachhadar highlighted that an inadequate budget from the local government poses challenges to infrastructure development and preservation. He urged financial support from the provincial and federal governments.
Archaeologist Bhaskar Gyawali stated that a preliminary study conducted 15 years ago suggested the site might date back to the medieval period. He added that a geological survey is necessary to uncover the site’s ancient significance, as the structures are not visible above ground.
