KAPILVASTU, Jan. 18 -- A team of archaeologists has initiated an excavation at Tilaurakot, Kapilvastu, with an objective to include Tilaurakot in the list of World Heritage Sites. Tilaurakot is an ancient Shakyan city of Kapilvastu where Siddhartha Gautam spent 29 years of his lifetime.

They have also started fresh excavation at Kanthak Stup. Japanese national Nobuo Kasai has provided a financial support of Rs 10 million for the project.

Archaeologists said they will carry out a geo-physical survey, drone photography, topography, field walking, socio-economy and visitor survey during the excavation. "This excavation will shed light to the cultural importance of Tilaurakot. The ancient city will soon be listed in the World Heritage List,...