BHAKTAPUR: Several craftsmen were seen carving wood at the Nepal Vocational Academy, situated in front of Saraswoti School in Bhaktapur.

Among the artwork on display was a life-sized metal statue of the late King Prithvi Narayan Shah.

While the artisans were busy at work, a team led by Prince Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh, visited the Academy on Wednesday.

The detailed craftsmanship caught his interest, and he decided to try his hand at wood carving.

The artisans at the Academy guided Prince Edward in the sculpting process, and he eagerly began carving a piece of wood using the available tools.

Accompanied by the British Ambassador to Nepal, Rob Fenn, the Prince was in Bhaktapur to explore historical heritage sites at the invitation of Rabindra Puri, Chief of the Nepal Vocational Academy and heritage expert.

Puri, who leads the Academy and specializes in heritage conservation, emphasized the institution’s crucial role in preserving traditional skills by training future generations in woodcraft and sculpture.

The Duke of Edinburgh commended the Academy’s efforts to protect cultural heritage.

Puri greeted the royal visitors at Bhaktapur Durbar Square and shared insights into the historical artwork and artifacts in this World Heritage Site.

The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, along with their delegation, also visited the Nyatapol Temple, Model House, and Dattatraya Temple during their tour.

Later, the royal couple visited the Nepal Vocational Academy and Basuki Ghar at Nagpokhari. Their royal visit in Bhaktapur lasted around three hours.

On Wednesday, Prince Edward and Princess Sophie arrived in Bhaktapur for separate events.

The Prince also visited the SOS Children’s Village in Sanothimi. The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh arrived in Nepal on Tuesday.

During their stay, the royal couple is expected to visit the British Embassy in Kathmandu, the National Botanical Garden at Godavari, ICIMOD, and Pokhara, among other locations.