The present invention provides an improved process for preparation of L-threo-(2S,3R)-3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)serine (I) (Droxidopa) and its salts; comprising (a) reaction of the aldehyde compound (III) (as described herein) with Metal complex (II) (as described herein), and (h) hydrolysis of the compound (IV) obtained from step (a) in presence of acid. The present invention also relates to a novel intermediates metal chiral complex (IV) for the preparation of Droxidopa.