NEPAL

A R C H I T E C T U R E

BS ARCHITECTURE 2B
HISTORY
हिस्तोरी
HISTORY
NEPAL ARCHITECTURE

PRE-HISTORIC PERIOD
Evidence of early human habitation dating
back to around 11,000 years ago, with
rudimentary architectural structures such
as simple shelters and settlements.

Archaeological sites such as the Lumbini

Archaeological Park, believed to be the
birthplace of Buddha, showcasing early
settlements and religious structures.
HISTORY
NEPAL ARCHITECTURE

ANCIENT PERIOD (Before 600 CE)

Development of early urban centers and trade
routes, particularly in the Kathmandu Valley,
showcasing rudimentary urban planning and
architectural features.
Ashoka Pillar at Lumbini, dating back to the 3rd
century BCE, representing early stone
architecture and religious monuments.
Early stupas and monastic complexes in places
like Lumbini, Kapilavastu, and Devdaha,
illustrating the influence of Buddhism in
architectural development.
HISTORY
NEPAL ARCHITECTURE

EARLY HINDU AND BUDDHIST ARCHITECTURE (600-1200 CE)

Establishment of early Hindu and Buddhist temples and
monasteries, including the construction of small shrines
and stupas.
Influence of Indian architectural styles and iconography,
with the emergence of early pagoda-style temples and
stupas.
Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu, one of the oldest
Hindu temples in Nepal, displaying early examples of
pagoda-style architecture and intricate stone carvings.
Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey
Temple, showcasing the fusion of Hindu and Buddhist
architectural elements, including the iconic white dome
and the towering spire adorned with the eyes of Buddha.
HISTORY
NEPAL ARCHITECTURE
Flourishing of Buddhist architecture with the
construction of stupas like Swayambhunath and
iconic temples like Changu Narayan.
LICHHAVI DYNASTY (c. 400-750 CE)
Introduction of brick and stone masonry techniques
in temple construction.
Changu Narayan Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu
and considered one of the oldest Hindu temples in
Nepal, featuring exquisite stone carvings and a
pagoda-style roof.
Stupas like Bodhnath and Swayambhunath, exhibiting
the architectural advancements of the Lichhavi
period with their impressive domes, tiered platforms,
and intricate ornamentation.
HISTORY
NEPAL ARCHITECTURE

MEDIEVAL PERIOD
Rise of the Malla dynasties and the development of distinctive
Newar architecture characterized by pagoda-style temples,
intricate woodcarvings, and stone masonry.
Construction of palace complexes, fortresses, and defensive
structures in Kathmandu, Patan, Bhaktapur, and other regions.
Nyatapola Temple in Bhaktapur, a five-story pagoda-style
temple dedicated to the goddess Siddhi Lakshmi, showcasing
the craftsmanship of Newar artisans and the structural
integrity of Nepali pagoda architecture.
Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, and
Bhaktapur Durbar Square, featuring palace complexes,
temples, and public squares that serve as architectural
showcases of the Malla period.
HISTORY
NEPAL ARCHITECTURE

GOLDEN AGE OF NEPALI ARCHITECTURE (14th-18th century)

Heightened architectural activity with the construction
of numerous temples, palaces, and public buildings,
showcasing the wealth and cultural achievements of the
Malla rulers.
Expansion and renovation of existing religious and
cultural sites, including the Kathmandu Durbar Square
and Patan Durbar Square.
Krishna Mandir in Patan Durbar Square, a fine example of
Newar architecture with its intricate woodcarvings,
ornate windows, and elegant pagoda roof.
Taleju Temple in Kathmandu Durbar Square, dedicated
to the goddess Taleju Bhawani and renowned for its richly
decorated facade and multiple-tiered roof.
HISTORY
NEPAL ARCHITECTURE

COLONIAL PERIOD AND RANA RULE

Influence of European architectural styles during the
Rana era, with the construction of neo-classical
buildings, palaces, and public infrastructure projects.
Preservation and restoration efforts for historic
monuments and sites, including the establishment of the
Department of Archaeology in Nepal.
Singha Durbar, the official residence of the Prime
Minister of Nepal, built during the Rana era and featuring
a blend of European and traditional Nepali architectural
elements.
Rana palaces like the Narayanhiti Palace, characterized
by their grandeur, spacious courtyards, and ornate
interiors influenced by European neoclassical styles.
HISTORY
Introduction of modern architectural styles and construction
techniques, especially in urban centers like Kathmandu and
NEPAL ARCHITECTURE Pokhara.
Preservation initiatives and conservation projects aimed at
COLONIAL PERIOD safeguarding Nepal's architectural heritage amidst rapid
AND RANA RULE urbanization and development pressures.
Integration of traditional architectural elements into
contemporary designs, promoting cultural identity and sustainable
development practices.
Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, showcasing
modern airport architecture with its terminal buildings, runways,
and passenger facilities.
Sustainable architecture projects such as the Eco-Home in
Kathmandu, designed to minimize environmental impact and
promote eco-friendly building practices.
INFLUENCES
(GEOGRAPHY, CLIMATE, AND RELIGION)
GEOGRAPHY
भूगोल
INFLUENCE: GEOGRAPHY
GEOGRAPHIC IMPACTS ON NEPAL'S ARCHITECTURE.

Nepal is of roughly trapezoidal

shape, about 800 kilometres (500
mi) long and 200 kilometres (120
mi) wide, with an area of 147,516
km2

Nepal is home to eight of the world's

ten highest mountains, including
Mount Everest, the tallest peak on
Earth.
INFLUENCE: GEOGRAPHY
GEAOGRAPHIC IMPACTS ON NEPAL'S ARCHITECTURE.

Nepal's terrain varies from the high Himalayas in

the north to the flat plains of the Terai region in the
south.

Due to its varied topography, Nepal experiences a

range of climates, from subtropical in the Terai to
alpine and arctic in the Himalayas.

Nepal is in subtropical latitude

CLIMATE
क्लाइमेट
INFLUENCE: CLIMATE
CLIMATIC IMPACTS ON NEPAL'S ARCHITECTURE.

Nepal is in subtropical latitude

constituting for its variations in
climates.

Nepal is typically divided into five

main climatic regions based on its
geography and topography:
tropical, subtropical, temperate,
alpine, subalpine.
INFLUENCE: CLIMATE
CLIMATIC IMPACTS ON NEPAL'S ARCHITECTURE.

Figure 2. Nepal’s Five Climatic Region

INFLUENCE: CLIMATE
CLIMATIC IMPACTS ON NEPAL'S ARCHITECTURE.

Nepal's diverse climate shapes its

traditional architecture

In colder mountainous areas, stone

and timber are commonly used for OAK WOOD CHIR PINE WOOD
insulation and durability against
harsh weather conditions. In the
warmer Terai region, where
temperatures can soar, mud and
brick are prevalent due to their
insulating properties. SLATE LIMESTONE
Figure 3. Examples of building materials
INFLUENCE: CLIMATE
CLIMATIC IMPACTS ON NEPAL'S ARCHITECTURE.

SLATE

Figure 3. Slate-roofed traditional houses of Landruk

village , Kaski district in the Gandaki zone of Nepal.
LIMESTONE
INFLUENCE: CLIMATE
CLIMATIC IMPACTS ON NEPAL'S ARCHITECTURE.

In regions prone to heavy snowfall,

such as the Himalayan foothills,
steeply pitched roofs are
constructed to prevent snow
accumulation and facilitate runoff.
STEEPLY PITCHED ROOFS
SMALL WINDOWS
MUD AND STONE WALLS
STONE FOUNDATION
Figure 4: Traditional houses of the Sherpa people in
Thame village, Everest region
INFLUENCE: CLIMATE
CLIMATIC IMPACTS ON NEPAL'S ARCHITECTURE.

In the warmer Terai region, houses often have

large windows, open courtyards, vents to
allow cool air to enter during hot weather and
warm air to escape during colder seasons.

The climate in Kathmandu Valley, Nepal, is

characterized by mild temperatures and
distinct seasons. Winters are cool and dry,
while summers are warm and humid, with a
monsoon season from June to September
bringing heavy rainfall.
PAGODA STYLE ROOF WOOD MATERIALS
OPEN DOORS AND EXTENDED EAVES
WINDOWS AND OVERHANGS

KASTHAMANDAP TEMPLE
RELIGION
धर्म
INFLUENCE: RELIGION
RELIGIOUS IMPACTS ON NEPAL'S ARCHITECTURE.

Hinduism and Buddhism being the

two predominant religion.
INFLUENCE: RELIGION
RELIGIOUS IMPACTS ON NEPAL'S ARCHITECTURE.

HINDUISM
Hinduism is the largest religion in Nepal.

Hindu temples, shrines, and sacred sites are

scattered throughout Nepal.

Hindu temple architecture in Nepal is

characterized by its intricate carvings, pagoda-
style roofs, and ornate facades.

Figure 1. Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu, Nepal

INFLUENCE: RELIGION
RELIGIOUS IMPACTS ON NEPAL'S ARCHITECTURE.

HINDUISM
kalashas (ornamental finials)
made of brass or copper and
are believed to channel
positive energy and
blessings down into the
temple

tiered, pagoda-style design

INFLUENCE: RELIGION
RELIGIOUS IMPACTS ON NEPAL'S ARCHITECTURE.

HINDUISM
INFLUENCE: RELIGION
RELIGIOUS IMPACTS ON NEPAL'S ARCHITECTURE.

HINDUISM
In Hinduism, fertility and the cycle of life are
important themes. Erotic carvings on temple
exteriors are often interpreted as symbols of
fertility, vitality, and the abundance of life.
Some scholars suggest that erotic carvings on
temple exteriors served an educational function,
particularly in societies where literacy rates were
low. These carvings might have been used to
convey moral and ethical teachings related to
love, relationships, and human behavior.
INFLUENCE: RELIGION
RELIGIOUS IMPACTS ON NEPAL'S ARCHITECTURE.

BUDDHISM
Siddhartha Gautama, most commonly referred to
as the Buddha was a wandering ascetic and
religious teacher who lived in South Asia during
the 6th or 5th century BCE and founded
Buddhism. According to Buddhist legends, he was
born in Lumbini, in what is now Nepal

Buddhist structures in Nepal: Buddhist

monasteries, stupas, and pilgrimage sites
INFLUENCE: RELIGION
RELIGIOUS IMPACTS ON NEPAL'S ARCHITECTURE.

BUDDHISM
Traditional Buddhist architecture characteristics
in Nepal: white-washed walls, prayer wheels,
and colorful prayer flags
 N E P A L A R C H I T E C T U R E

ARCHITECTURAL
C H A R A C T E R

BS ARCHITECTURE 2B
ARCH. CHARACTER
N E P A L A R C H I T E C T U R E

The ancient trade route between

India and Tibet that passed through
Kathmandu enabled a fusion of
artistic and architectural traditions
from other cultures to be
amalgamated with local art and
architecture.
ARCH. CHARACTER
N E P A L A R C H I T E C T U R E

The architectural character of

Nepal is a unique blend of
traditional and modern styles
influenced by Hinduism, Buddhism,
and Tibetan culture.

ex. Swayambhunath Stupa

ARCH. CHARACTER
N E P A L A R C H I T E C T U R E

Nepal's architecture reflects a rich

cultural heritage, with diverse
influences evident in the intricate
carvings, sculptures, and designs
found in buildings across the
country.
ARCH. CHARACTER
N E P A L A R C H I T E C T U R E

The architectural styles in Nepal

can be categorized into three main
groups: pagoda style, stupa style,
and shikhara style
ARCH. CHARACTER
N E P A L A R C H I T E C T U R E

The monuments of Kathmandu City

have been influenced over the
centuries by Hindu and Buddhist
religious practices.
 NEPAL
B U I L D I N G M A T E R I A L S

BS ARCHITECTURE 2B
 MATERIALS
IMBER MORT RICKS
T D B

MU

AR
ETALS TONES
M S
TIMBER
TEMPLES THAT USES A TIMBER, INCLUDING THE
KATHMANDAP AND PASHUPATINATH TEMPLE , HAVE
EXTENSIVELY USED TIMBER IN THEIR CONSTRUCTION.

Pashupatinath Temple Kasthamandap temple

 BRICKS & MUD MORTAR
TEMPLES THAT USES BRICKS & MUD MORTAR

Pashupatinath Temple Nyatapola Temple Gopinath Krishna Temple

 STONE TEMPLES THAT USES BRICKS & MUD
MORTAR

Pashupatinath Temple Changu Narayan Temple Nyatapola Temple Tal Barahi Temple
 TEMPLES IN NEPAL
METALS THAT USES METALS.

Janaki Temple Shesh Narayan Temple Patan Krishna Temple

NEPAL
S T R U C T U R E S

BS ARCHITECTURE 2B
 KUMARI GHAR
DATE: WAS BUILT IN THE 18TH CENTURY.
DESIGNER/BUILDER: IT WAS LIKELY CONSTRUCTED BY SKILLED ARTISANS
AND CRAFTSMEN UNDER THE PATRONAGE OF THE MALLA KINGS.
STATUS: KUMARI GHAR SERVES AS THE RESIDENCE OF THE KUMARI, A
YOUNG GIRL REVERED AS THE LIVING EMBODIMENT OF THE HINDU GODDESS
TALEJU. IT IS CONSIDERED A SACRED SITE AND A SYMBOL OF NEPAL'S
CULTURAL HERITAGE.
DETAILS: KUMARI GHAR IS A THREE-STORY TRADITIONAL NEWARI BUILDING
WITH A PAGODA-STYLE ROOF. IT FEATURES INTRICATELY CARVED WOODEN
WINDOWS, DOORS, AND BALCONIES. THE INTERIOR IS DECORATED WITH
RELIGIOUS SYMBOLS AND ARTWORK, REFLECTING NEPAL'S RICH CULTURAL
HERITAGE.
LOCATION: SITUATED IN THE HEART OF KATHMANDU, WITHIN THE
BASANTAPUR DURBAR SQUARE COMPLEX.
MATERIALS: BRICK, WOOD, AND STONE, WITH ELABORATE WOOD CARVINGS.
 KASTHAMANDAP
DATE: WAS BUILT IN THE 12TH CENTURY, AROUND THE 11TH CENTURY
CE.
DESIGNER/BUILDER: LIKELY CONSTRUCTED BY SKILLED ARTISANS AND
CRAFTSMEN OF THE NEWAR COMMUNITY IN KATHMANDU, NEPAL.
STATUS: KASTHAMANDAP SERVED VARIOUS FUNCTIONS THROUGHOUT
ITS HISTORY, INCLUDING AS A REST HOUSE, SHELTER DURING
FESTIVALS, AND A GATHERING PLACE. IT WAS A SIGNIFICANT LANDMARK
IN KATHMANDU'S DURBAR SQUARE.
DETAILS: THIS THREE-STORY WOODEN STRUCTURE WAS CONSTRUCTED
WITHOUT NAILS, ENTIRELY FROM WOOD SOURCED FROM A SINGLE SAL
TREE. ITS NAME, "KASTHAMANDAP," TRANSLATES TO "WOODEN
PAVILION" IN NEPALI.
LOCATION: SITUATED IN KATHMANDU'S DURBAR SQUARE.
MATERIALS: WOOD WITH INTRICATE CARVINGS.
 PASHUPATINATH TEMPLE
DATE: THE CURRENT TEMPLE STRUCTURE WAS REBUILT IN THE 15TH CENTURY BY
KING BHUPATINDRA MALLA OF THE MALLA DYNASTY.
DESIGNER/BUILDER: THE TEMPLE WAS REBUILT IN ITS CURRENT FORM BY KING
BHUPATINDRA MALLA.
STATUS: PASHUPATINATH TEMPLE IS ONE OF THE MOST SACRED HINDU TEMPLES
IN NEPAL AND IS RECOGNIZED AS A UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE.
DETAILS: PASHUPATINATH TEMPLE IS DEDICATED TO LORD SHIVA, PARTICULARLY
IN HIS FORM AS PASHUPATI, THE LORD OF ALL CREATURES. THE TEMPLE COMPLEX
INCLUDES MULTIPLE SHRINES, COURTYARDS, AND GHATS (STONE STEPS LEADING
TO THE RIVER) ALONG THE BAGMATI RIVER. IT IS RENOWNED FOR ITS INTRICATE
WOOD CARVINGS, GOLDEN SPIRES, AND SACRED LINGAM (PHALLIC SYMBOL OF
SHIVA).
LOCATION: LOCATED ON THE BANKS OF THE BAGMATI RIVER IN THE EASTERN PART
OF KATHMANDU, THE CAPITAL CITY OF NEPAL.
MATERIALS: STONE AND WOOD, WITH ORNATE WOOD CARVINGS. THE MAIN PAGODA-
STYLE TEMPLE IS BUILT WITH WOOD AND FEATURES GOLDEN ROOFS AND FINELY
CRAFTED METALWORK.
 BOUDHANATH
DATE: WAS BUILT IN THE 5TH CENTURY CE, THE CURRENT STRUCTURE WAS
RECONSTRUCTED IN THE 14TH CENTURY AFTER BEING DAMAGED BY MUGHAL
INVASIONS.
DESIGNER/BUILDER: IT IS BELIEVED TO HAVE BEEN CONSTRUCTED UNDER THE
PATRONAGE OF KING MANADEVA OF THE LICCHAVI DYNASTY.
STATUS: BOUDHANATH STUPA IS ONE OF THE LARGEST AND MOST SIGNIFICANT
BUDDHIST STUPAS IN NEPAL AND IS RECOGNIZED AS A UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE
SITE. IT REMAINS AN ACTIVE RELIGIOUS SITE AND A MAJOR PILGRIMAGE DESTINATION
FOR BUDDHISTS.
DETAILS: BOUDHANATH STUPA IS A MASSIVE HEMISPHERICAL DOME STRUCTURE
ADORNED WITH EYES PAINTED ON ALL FOUR SIDES, SYMBOLIZING THE ALL-SEEING
EYES OF THE BUDDHA. IT FEATURES A SQUARE BASE WITH PRAYER WHEELS, PRAYER
FLAGS, AND 108 SMALLER STUPAS SURROUNDING THE MAIN STUPA. THE STUPA IS
SURROUNDED BY MONASTERIES, SHOPS, AND TIBETAN BUDDHIST PRAYER WHEELS.
LOCATION: LOCATED IN THE KATHMANDU VALLEY, NEPAL.
MATERIALS: BRICK AND EARTH, WITH WHITEWASHED PLASTER COVERING THE
EXTERIOR.
 TEMPLE OF TALEJU
DATE: WAS BUILT IN THE 15TH CENTURY DURING THE REIGN OF KING
RATNA MALLA OF THE MALLA DYNASTY.
DESIGNER/BUILDER: BUT IT WAS CONSTRUCTED UNDER THE
PATRONAGE OF KING RATNA MALLA.
STATUS: THE TEMPLE OF TALEJU REMAINS AN ACTIVE RELIGIOUS
SITE AND IS AN IMPORTANT CULTURAL HERITAGE MONUMENT.
DETAILS: THE TEMPLE IS DEDICATED TO GODDESS TALEJU
BHAWANI, A FORM OF THE GODDESS DURGA. IT FEATURES
TRADITIONAL NEWARI ARCHITECTURE WITH INTRICATE WOOD
CARVINGS, PAGODA-STYLE ROOFS, AND ORNATE DECORATIONS.
LOCATION: SITUATED IN KATHMANDU DURBAR SQUARE
MATERIALS: BRICK, WOOD, AND STONE, WITH ELABORATE WOOD
CARVINGS.
 THE SHRINE OF CHANGU
DATE: WAS BUILT IN THE 4TH CENTURY CE, MAKING IT ONE OF THE
OLDEST HINDU TEMPLES IN NEPAL.
DESIGNER/BUILDER: THE ORIGINAL DESIGNER AND BUILDER OF THE
SHRINE ARE NOT RECORDED DUE TO ITS ANCIENT ORIGINS.
STATUS: THE SHRINE OF CHANGU NARAYAN IS AN ACTIVE HINDU
TEMPLE AND A UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE.
DETAILS: THE SHRINE IS DEDICATED TO LORD VISHNU IN HIS
INCARNATION AS NARAYAN. IT FEATURES EXQUISITE STONE
CARVINGS, SCULPTURES, AND INSCRIPTIONS DEPICTING VARIOUS
HINDU DEITIES, MYTHOLOGICAL SCENES, AND HISTORICAL EVENTS.
LOCATION: LOCATED ON A HILLTOP IN CHANGU VILLAGE, NEAR
BHAKTAPUR KATHMANDU VALLEY, NEPAL.
MATERIALS: STONE, WITH INTRICATE CARVINGS ADORNING ITS
STRUCTURE.
 TEMPLE OF NYATAPOLA
DATE: WAS BUILT IN 1702 CE DURING THE REIGN OF KING BHUPATINDRA
MALLA OF THE MALLA DYNASTY.
DESIGNER/BUILDER: WAS DESIGNED AND BUILT BY KING BHUPATINDRA
MALLA AND HIS ARTISANS.
STATUS: THE TEMPLE OF NYATAPOLA IS AN ANCIENT HINDU TEMPLE
LOCATED IN BHAKTAPUR, NEPAL. IT REMAINS AN ACTIVE RELIGIOUS SITE
AND IS A POPULAR TOURIST ATTRACTION.
DETAILS: THE TEMPLE IS DEDICATED TO SIDDHI LAKSHMI, A HINDU GODDESS
OF PROSPERITY. IT IS RENOWNED FOR ITS IMPRESSIVE FIVE-STORY
PAGODA-STYLE ARCHITECTURE, WHICH IS ONE OF THE TALLEST TEMPLES
IN NEPAL. EACH LEVEL OF THE TEMPLE IS ADORNED WITH INTRICATELY
CARVED WOODEN FIGURES OF DEITIES, MYTHICAL CREATURES, AND
SYMBOLS.
LOCATION: LOCATED IN TAUMADHI SQUARE
MATERIALS: BRICK, WOOD, AND STONE, WITH ELABORATE WOOD CARVINGS.
BHAKTAPUR TAUMADHI SQUARE
DATE: MOST OF THE BUILDINGS CONSTRUCTED BETWEEN THE 15TH AND 17TH
CENTURIES.
DESIGNER/BUILDER: THEY WERE LIKELY BUILT BY SKILLED ARTISANS AND
CRAFTSMEN OF THE NEWAR COMMUNITY.
STATUS: TAUMADHI SQUARE IS A HISTORIC SQUARE AND A UNESCO WORLD
HERITAGE SITE, PRESERVING THE RICH CULTURAL AND ARCHITECTURAL
HERITAGE OF BHAKTAPUR.
DETAILS: TAUMADHI SQUARE IS KNOWN FOR ITS TRADITIONAL NEWARI
ARCHITECTURE, WITH SEVERAL WELL-PRESERVED TEMPLES AND PAGODAS,
INCLUDING THE TEMPLE OF NYATAPOLA, DEDICATED TO SIDDHI LAKSHMI. THE
SQUARE ALSO FEATURES INTRICATELY CARVED WOODEN STRUCTURES, STONE
SCULPTURES, AND ANCIENT WATER SPOUTS.
LOCATION: LOCATED IN THE HEART OF BHAKTAPUR, A HISTORIC CITY IN THE
KATHMANDU VALLEY, NEPAL.
MATERIALS: BRICK, WOOD, AND STONE, WITH ELABORATE WOOD CARVINGS
AND STONE SCULPTURES.
OLD ROYAL PALACE IN KATHMANDU
DATE: ALSO KNOWN AS HANUMAN DHOKA PALACE, ITS CURRENT STRUCTURE WAS
EXPANDED AND RENOVATED OVER SEVERAL CENTURIES, WITH SIGNIFICANT
CONSTRUCTION DURING THE MALLA AND SHAH DYNASTIES.
DESIGNER/BUILDER: IT WAS EXPANDED AND RENOVATED BY VARIOUS RULERS OF
NEPAL OVER THE CENTURIES.
STATUS: THE OLD ROYAL PALACE IS A UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE AND A
HISTORIC LANDMARK IN KATHMANDU. WHILE IT NO LONGER SERVES AS A ROYAL
RESIDENCE, IT REMAINS AN IMPORTANT CULTURAL AND HISTORICAL SITE.
DETAILS: THE PALACE COMPLEX CONSISTS OF NUMEROUS BUILDINGS, INCLUDING THE
HANUMAN DHOKA DURBAR, BASANTAPUR DURBAR, MUL CHOWK, NASAL CHOWK, AND
OTHERS. IT FEATURES A BLEND OF TRADITIONAL NEPALESE, MUGHAL, AND EUROPEAN
ARCHITECTURAL STYLES. THE PALACE IS KNOWN FOR ITS INTRICATELY CARVED
WOODEN WINDOWS, DOORS, AND BALCONIES, AS WELL AS ITS COURTYARDS AND
TEMPLES.
LOCATION: LOCATED IN KATHMANDU, THE CAPITAL CITY OF NEPAL.
MATERIALS: OF BRICK, WOOD, AND STONE, WITH ELABORATE WOOD CARVINGS, STONE
SCULPTURES, AND METALWORK.
 BASANTAPUR TOWER
DATE: WAS ORIGINALLY CONSTRUCTED IN THE 18TH CENTURY, DURING THE
REIGN OF KING PRITHVI NARAYAN SHAH.
DESIGNER/BUILDER: IT WAS LIKELY CONSTRUCTED UNDER THE PATRONAGE
OF KING PRITHVI NARAYAN SHAH.
STATUS: THE BASANTAPUR TOWER IS AN ICONIC LANDMARK IN KATHMANDU,
NEPAL, AND IS CONSIDERED A SYMBOL OF THE CITY'S HISTORICAL AND
CULTURAL HERITAGE.
DETAILS: THE BASANTAPUR TOWER IS A NINE-STORY TALL STRUCTURE,
WITH EACH FLOOR FEATURING TRADITIONAL NEPALI ARCHITECTURAL
ELEMENTS SUCH AS CARVED WOODEN WINDOWS AND BALCONIES. IT
OFFERS PANORAMIC VIEWS OF KATHMANDU CITY AND THE SURROUNDING
AREAS.
LOCATION: LOCATED WITHIN THE BASANTAPUR DURBAR SQUARE COMPLEX
IN KATHMANDU, NEPAL.
MATERIALS: BRICK, WOOD, AND STONE, WITH INTRICATE WOOD CARVINGS.
 DHARAHARA TOWER
DATE: ALSO KNOWN AS THE BHIMSEN TOWER, WAS ORIGINALLY BUILT
IN 1832 DURING THE REIGN OF PRIME MINISTER BHIMSEN THAPA.
DESIGNER/BUILDER: WAS DESIGNED AND CONSTRUCTED UNDER THE
SUPERVISION OF BHIMSEN THAPA.
STATUS: THE ORIGINAL DHARAHARA TOWER WAS DESTROYED BY AN
EARTHQUAKE IN 1934. HOWEVER, IT WAS REBUILT AND STOOD UNTIL
APRIL 25, 2015, WHEN IT WAS SEVERELY DAMAGED BY ANOTHER
EARTHQUAKE. RECONSTRUCTION EFFORTS ARE UNDERWAY.
DETAILS: THE DHARAHARA TOWER WAS A NINE-STORY TALL TOWER
WITH A SPIRAL STAIRCASE LEADING TO AN OBSERVATION DECK AT THE
TOP. IT OFFERED PANORAMIC VIEWS OF KATHMANDU CITY AND THE
SURROUNDING VALLEY.
LOCATION: LOCATED IN THE SUNDHARA AREA OF KATHMANDU, NEPAL.
MATERIALS: BRICK AND WOOD.
 NASAL CHOWK
DATE: WAS CONSTRUCTED IN THE 17TH CENTURY DURING THE MALLA
PERIOD IN NEPAL.
DESIGNER/BUILDER: BUT IT WAS LIKELY BUILT UNDER THE PATRONAGE OF
KING PRATAP MALLA.
STATUS: NASAL CHOWK IS A WELL-PRESERVED COURTYARD WITHIN THE
BASANTAPUR DURBAR SQUARE COMPLEX AND IS RECOGNIZED AS A
UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE.
DETAILS: NASAL CHOWK IS KNOWN FOR ITS EXQUISITE ARCHITECTURE
AND INTRICATE WOOD CARVINGS. IT FEATURES A BEAUTIFUL COURTYARD
SURROUNDED BY STUNNING BUILDINGS ADORNED WITH TRADITIONAL
NEPALI ARTWORK.
LOCATION: LOCATED WITHIN THE BASANTAPUR DURBAR SQUARE
COMPLEX IN KATHMANDU, NEPAL.
MATERIALS: BRICK, WOOD, AND STONE, WITH ELABORATE WOOD
CARVINGS AND DECORATIVE ELEMENTS
TIBETAN
A R C H I T E C T U R E
INFLUENCES
(GEOGRAPHY, CLIMATE, AND RELIGION)
GEOGRAPHY
INFLUENCE: GEOGRAPHY
GEOGRAPHIC IMPACTS ON TIBET’S ARCHITECTURE.

Tibet, officially known as the Tibet

Autonomous Region (TAR), has a
total land area of approximately 1.2
million square kilometers

Tibet is not a country, it is an

autonomous region of China

Tibet has its own distinct cultural

and historical identity, However,
since the 1950s, Tibet has been
under the control of the People's
Republic of China.
INFLUENCE: SOCIAL AND POLITICAL
GEOGRAPHIC IMPACTS ON TIBET’S ARCHITECTURE.

Tibet is not a country, it

is an autonomous
region of China.
INFLUENCE: GEOGRAPHY
GEOGRAPHIC IMPACTS ON TIBET’S ARCHITECTURE.

Tibet is known for its high

elevation, with vast stretches of the
Tibetan Plateau averaging over
4,500 meters (14,800 feet) above
sea level
- Buildings often feature thick walls
made of locally sourced materials
such as stone, mud bricks, or
rammed earth, which provide
insulation and help regulate indoor
temperatures.
INFLUENCE: GEOGRAPHY
GEOGRAPHIC IMPACTS ON TIBET’S ARCHITECTURE.

Buildings are often oriented to

maximize solar gain and minimize
heat loss.

- south-facing windows
- Thick walls and insulated roofs
RELIGION
INFLUENCE: RELIGION
GEOGRAPHIC IMPACTS ON TIBET’S ARCHITECTURE.

TIBETAN HINDUISM
Tibetan Buddhist architecture
often takes into account the
surrounding natural environment,
including mountains, rivers, and
pilgrimage routes.

Buildings may be situated in such a

way as to offer views of these
sacred landscapes or to
incorporate them into the overall
design.
INFLUENCE: RELIGION
GEOGRAPHIC IMPACTS ON TIBET’S ARCHITECTURE.

TIBETAN HINDUISM
Pagoda-style Roofs
- These roofs symbolize the sacred
mountain, Mount Meru, believed to be
the center of the universe in Buddhist
cosmology. The upward-reaching
spires of pagoda roofs evoke
aspirations towards spiritual
enlightenment.
CLIMATE
INFLUENCE: CLIMATE
CLIMATIC IMPACTS ON TIBET’S ARCHITECTURE.

The high altitude contributes to

Tibet's cold temperatures, low
atmospheric pressure, and
reduced oxygen levels, which can
pose challenges for visitors who are
not acclimatized to such conditions.

Tibet has a dry and arid climate,

with limited precipitation
throughout the year.
Winters in Tibet are long, cold, and
harsh, particularly in the higher
elevations.
 T I B E T A N A R C H I T E C T U R E

ARCHITECTURAL
C H A R A C T E R

BS ARCHITECTURE 2B
ARCH. CHARACTER
T I B E T A N A R C H I T E C T U R E

deeply rooted in the region's

geography, climate, culture,
and religion

unique blend of influences from

Indian, Chinese, Mongol,
Nepalese, and Tang
architectural styles

reflect the spiritual beliefs and

lifestyle of the Tibetan people
ARCH. CHARACTER
T I B E T A N A R C H I T E C T U R E

Buildings are generally made

from locally available
construction materials, and are
often embellished with symbols
of Tibetan Buddhism.

Organic design approach, with

structures being heavier at the
lower levels and lighter at
higher levels
ARCH. CHARACTER
T I B E T A N A R C H I T E C T U R E

structures are often built on

elevated, sunny sites facing
south.

feature flat roofs that help

conserve heat from sunlight

eastern Tibetan plateau where

summer rains are heavier,
sloping roofs, covered either in
slate, shingles, or (increasingly)
ceramic tile, are popular in
some regions
ARCH. CHARACTER
T I B E T A N A R C H I T E C T U R E

Windows are usually small

because the walls are so heavy
that large openings would make
the structure weak and
unstable. In the past, windows
featured paper-covered
wooden latticework, but
nowadays almost universally
use glass.
 TIBETAN
TIBET
B U I SL TD R
I NU G C M
T AU TR E ER SI A L S

BS ARCHITECTURE 2B
BS ARCHITECTURE 2B
 MATERIALS
R OR W NCRET CLAY
E O

E
TIMB

OOD
TONES
S
 TIMBER OR WOOD

JOKHANG TEMPLE

POTALA PALACE RAMOCHE TEMPLE

 CONCRETE

SAMYE MONASTERY

DREPUNG MONASTERY Tashilhunpo Monastery

 CLAY STONES

Tabo Monastery

JOKHANG TEMPLE RAMOCHE TEMPLE

TIBETAN
S T R U C T U R E S

BS ARCHITECTURE 2B
LADAKH IN JAMMU AND KASHMIR
DATE: SETTLEMENT IN THE LADAKH REGION DATES BACK THOUSANDS OF YEARS,
WITH EVIDENCE OF HUMAN HABITATION FROM ANCIENT TIMES.
DESIGNER/BUILDER: THE ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE OF LADAKH IS A RESULT OF
CONTRIBUTIONS FROM VARIOUS CULTURES AND COMMUNITIES OVER CENTURIES,
INCLUDING THE TIBETAN, INDIAN, AND CENTRAL ASIAN INFLUENCES.
STATUS: LADAKH IS A REGION KNOWN FOR ITS RICH CULTURAL HERITAGE AND
STUNNING LANDSCAPES. ITS ARCHITECTURAL WONDERS, INCLUDING
MONASTERIES, PALACES, AND TRADITIONAL HOUSES, CONTRIBUTE TO ITS STATUS
AS A UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE.
DETAILS: LADAKH FEATURES A UNIQUE BLEND OF ARCHITECTURAL STYLES,
CHARACTERIZED BY TIBETAN-STYLE MONASTERIES (GOMPA), INTRICATELY
CARVED WOODEN STRUCTURES, AND TRADITIONAL LADAKHI HOUSES WITH FLAT
ROOFS AND MUD BRICK WALLS.
LOCATION: LADAKH IS LOCATED IN THE NORTHERNMOST REGION OF INDIA, WITHIN
THE UNION TERRITORY OF JAMMU AND KASHMIR.
MATERIALS: STONES, MUD BRICKS, AND TIMBER.
GYATSE STUPA (KUMBUM STUPA)
DATE: WAS CONSTRUCTED IN THE 15TH CENTURY DURING THE MING
DYNASTY.
DESIGNER/BUILDER: THE STUPA WAS DESIGNED AND BUILT UNDER
THE PATRONAGE OF LOCAL TIBETAN RULERS AND ARTISANS.
STATUS: THE GYATSE STUPA IS A REVERED BUDDHIST MONUMENT
AND A SIGNIFICANT CULTURAL AND RELIGIOUS SITE IN TIBET.
DETAILS: THE STUPA IS RENOWNED FOR ITS UNIQUE ARCHITECTURAL
DESIGN, FEATURING MULTIPLE TIERS WITH INTRICATE CARVINGS,
MURALS, AND STATUES. IT SERVES AS A PLACE OF WORSHIP,
PILGRIMAGE, AND RELIGIOUS RITUALS FOR TIBETAN BUDDHISTS.
LOCATION: LOCATED IN GYANTSE COUNTY, SHIGATSE PREFECTURE,
TIBET AUTONOMOUS REGION, CHINA.
MATERIALS: STONE AND BRICK, WITH ELABORATE DECORATIONS
MADE OF WOOD, METAL, AND PAINT.
 TASHILHUNPO MONASTERY
DATE: TASHILHUNPO MONASTERY WAS FOUNDED IN 1447 BY THE 1ST DALAI
LAMA, GENDUN DRUP.
DESIGNER/BUILDER: THE MONASTERY WAS FOUNDED BY GENDUN DRUP
AND LATER EXPANDED BY THE 4TH PANCHEN LAMA, LOBZANG CHOKYI
GYALTSEN.
STATUS: TASHILHUNPO MONASTERY IS ONE OF THE LARGEST AND MOST
IMPORTANT MONASTERIES IN TIBET AND REMAINS AN ACTIVE CENTER OF
TIBETAN BUDDHISM.
DETAILS: THE MONASTERY COMPLEX INCLUDES NUMEROUS HALLS,
CHAPELS, STUPAS, AND OTHER RELIGIOUS STRUCTURES. IT IS KNOWN FOR
ITS STUNNING ARCHITECTURE, INTRICATE ARTWORK, AND SPIRITUAL
SIGNIFICANCE.
LOCATION: LOCATED IN SHIGATSE, TIBET AUTONOMOUS REGION, CHINA.
MATERIALS: STONE, BRICK, AND WOOD, WITH COLORFUL DECORATIONS,
ELABORATE CARVINGS.
 CHANGZHUG MONASTERY
DATE: ALSO KNOWN AS SAMYE MONASTERY, WAS FOUNDED IN 779 CE DURING
THE REIGN OF TIBETAN KING TRISONG DETSEN.
DESIGNER/BUILDER: WAS DESIGNED AND BUILT UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF
THE INDIAN BUDDHIST MASTERS SHANTARAKSHITA AND PADMASAMBHAVA
(GURU RINPOCHE).
STATUS: CHANGZHUG MONASTERY IS THE FIRST BUDDHIST MONASTERY
ESTABLISHED IN TIBET AND HOLDS GREAT SIGNIFICANCE IN TIBETAN
BUDDHISM.
DETAILS: THE MONASTERY COMPLEX IS DESIGNED IN THE SHAPE OF A
MANDALA, REPRESENTING THE BUDDHIST UNIVERSE. IT FEATURES MULTIPLE
TEMPLES, STUPAS, AND ASSEMBLY HALLS, EACH WITH ITS OWN UNIQUE
ARCHITECTURAL STYLE AND RELIGIOUS SIGNIFICANCE.
LOCATION: LOCATED IN DRANANG COUNTY, SHANNAN PREFECTURE, TIBET
AUTONOMOUS REGION, CHINA.
MATERIALS: STONE, MUD BRICKS, AND WOOD, WITH INTRICATE CARVINGS,
COLORFUL PAINTINGS, AND DECORATIVE ELEMENTS.
 TSURPHU MONASTERY
DATE: T WAS FOUNDED IN 1189 BY DUSUM KHYENPA, THE FIRST KARMAPA.
DESIGNER/BUILDER: THE MONASTERY WAS ESTABLISHED BY DUSUM KHYENPA
AND FURTHER DEVELOPED BY SUBSEQUENT KARMAPA INCARNATIONS AND
TIBETAN BUDDHIST PRACTITIONERS.
STATUS: TSURPHU MONASTERY IS AN IMPORTANT RELIGIOUS SITE IN TIBETAN
BUDDHISM, SERVING AS THE MAIN SEAT OF THE KARMAPA LINEAGE. IT REMAINS
AN ACTIVE CENTER FOR RELIGIOUS PRACTICE, STUDY, AND PILGRIMAGE.
DETAILS: THE MONASTERY COMPLEX COMPRISES VARIOUS TEMPLES, ASSEMBLY
HALLS, LIVING QUARTERS FOR MONKS, AND ADMINISTRATIVE BUILDINGS. IT IS
RENOWNED FOR ITS SPIRITUAL ATMOSPHERE, SACRED RELICS, AND STUNNING
MOUNTAIN SCENERY.
LOCATION: SITUATED IN THE TSURPHU VALLEY, APPROXIMATELY 70
KILOMETERS NORTHWEST OF LHASA, THE CAPITAL CITY OF TIBET AUTONOMOUS
REGION, CHINA.
MATERIALS: STONE, MUD BRICKS, FEATURES SUCH AS COLORFUL MURALS,
INTRICATE WOOD CARVINGS, AND ORNATE DECORATIONS.
 JOKHANG TEMPLE
DATE: WAS BUILT IN THE 7TH CENTURY CE, AROUND 642 CE, DURING THE
REIGN OF KING SONGTSEN GAMPO OF THE TIBETAN EMPIRE.
DESIGNER/BUILDER: WAS COMMISSIONED BY KING SONGTSEN GAMPO TO
HOUSE A STATUE OF BUDDHA BROUGHT TO TIBET BY HIS NEPALI QUEEN,
PRINCESS BHRIKUTI, AND HIS CHINESE QUEEN, PRINCESS WENCHENG.
STATUS: JOKHANG TEMPLE IS ONE OF THE HOLIEST SITES IN TIBETAN
BUDDHISM AND IS RECOGNIZED AS A UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE.
DETAILS: THE TEMPLE IS A BLEND OF INDIAN, NEPALESE, AND TIBETAN
ARCHITECTURAL STYLES AND HOUSES NUMEROUS CHAPELS, PRAYER
HALLS, AND SACRED RELICS. IT FEATURES A CENTRAL GOLDEN-ROOFED
SHRINE CONTAINING THE REVERED JOWO SHAKYAMUNI STATUE.
LOCATION: LOCATED IN THE HEART OF LHASA, THE CAPITAL CITY OF TIBET
AUTONOMOUS REGION, CHINA.
MATERIALS: STONE, WOOD, AND MUD BRICKS.
 TSOZONG GONGBA MONASTERY
DATE: WAS FOUNDED IN THE 18TH CENTURY, DURING THE QING DYNASTY.
DESIGNER/BUILDER: THE SPECIFIC DESIGNER AND BUILDER OF TSOZONG
GONGBA MONASTERY ARE NOT RECORDED.
STATUS: TSOZONG GONGBA IS AN ACTIVE BUDDHIST MONASTERY AND A
CULTURAL HERITAGE SITE IN THE DEQIN COUNTY OF YUNNAN PROVINCE,
CHINA.
DETAILS: THE MONASTERY IS KNOWN FOR ITS STUNNING LOCATION
AMIDST THE PICTURESQUE LANDSCAPES OF THE MEILI SNOW MOUNTAIN
RANGE. IT FEATURES TRADITIONAL TIBETAN ARCHITECTURE WITH
COLORFUL DECORATIONS, PRAYER HALLS, STUPAS, AND LIVING QUARTERS
FOR MONKS.
LOCATION: LOCATED IN THE DEQIN COUNTY OF YUNNAN PROVINCE, CHINA.
MATERIALS: TONE, WOOD, AND MUD BRICKS, WITH COLORFUL
DECORATIONS, INTRICATE CARVINGS, AND ORNATE MURALS.
 CHOKORGYEL MONASTERY
DATE: ALSO KNOWN AS CHODE MONASTERY, WAS FOUNDED IN THE 17TH
CENTURY.
DESIGNER/BUILDER: THE SPECIFIC DESIGNER AND BUILDER OF
CHOKORGYEL MONASTERY ARE NOT RECORDED.
STATUS: CHOKORGYEL MONASTERY IS AN ACTIVE BUDDHIST MONASTERY
AND A CULTURAL HERITAGE SITE IN TIBET AUTONOMOUS REGION, CHINA.
DETAILS: THE MONASTERY IS KNOWN FOR ITS STUNNING LOCATION
AMIDST THE RUGGED MOUNTAINS AND PICTURESQUE LANDSCAPES OF
TIBET. IT FEATURES TRADITIONAL TIBETAN ARCHITECTURE WITH
COLORFUL DECORATIONS, PRAYER HALLS, STUPAS, AND LIVING QUARTERS
FOR MONKS.
LOCATION: LOCATED IN THE REGION OF TIBET AUTONOMOUS REGION,
CHINA.
MATERIALS: STONE, WOOD, AND MUD BRICKS.
 RAMOCHE TEMPLE
DATE: WAS ORIGINALLY BUILT IN THE 7TH CENTURY CE, AROUND 641 CE.
DESIGNER/BUILDER: WAS COMMISSIONED BY THE TANG DYNASTY PRINCESS
WENCHENG AND CONSTRUCTED UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF CRAFTSMEN
FROM THE HAN CHINESE AND TIBETAN ETHNIC GROUPS.
STATUS: RAMOCHE TEMPLE IS AN ACTIVE BUDDHIST TEMPLE AND A
SIGNIFICANT CULTURAL AND RELIGIOUS SITE IN LHASA, TIBET AUTONOMOUS
REGION, CHINA.
DETAILS: THE TEMPLE IS RENOWNED FOR ITS HISTORICAL AND
ARCHITECTURAL SIGNIFICANCE, HOUSING NUMEROUS BUDDHIST RELICS,
STATUES, AND SCRIPTURES
LOCATION: LOCATED IN THE CENTER OF LHASA, THE CAPITAL CITY OF TIBET
AUTONOMOUS REGION, CHINA.
MATERIALS: STONE, WOOD, AND MUD BRICKS, WITH COLORFUL
DECORATIONS, INTRICATE CARVINGS, AND ORNATE MURALS.