India to launch restoration of 9th-century Prambanan Temple in Indonesia

Key facts

• The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) will launch the restoration of the 9th-century Prambanan Temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Special Region of Yogyakarta, Indonesia.
• The Prambanan project will employ the anastylosis method to rebuild monuments using original stones and will extend conservation to the Sewu and Plaosan temple complexes.
• In Cambodia, ASI has undertaken restoration work at Angkor Wat (1986-1993), Ta Prohm (since 2004), Preah Vihear Temple, and Ashram Maha Russei.
• India's conservation efforts in Vietnam include the Mỹ Sơn Sanctuary, where restoration of Groups A, H, and K was completed in 2023, with future surveys conducted for Dong Duong Buddhist Monastery and Nhan Tower.
• Other international projects include Vat Phou in Laos (since 2009), Thiruketheeswaram Temple in Sri Lanka (since 2012), Pashupatinath Temple in Nepal, and the Ananda Temple and pagodas in Bagan in Myanmar.
• The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that India has completed over 50 cultural and heritage projects abroad, with approximately 25 more under implementation as part of its heritage diplomacy and Act East policy.