Vernacular buildings of Dolpo, Nepal: adaptation to the high Himalayas

Abstract

Abstract The settlements of the high Himalayas are subject to extreme weather conditions and earthquakes. The buildings have been adapted to local circumstances with respect to material availability, local culture, seismic activity and the harsh climate. This paper introduces the vernacular architecture of Upper Dolpo, with examples from the villages of Tsho, Saldang and Bijer and the monasteries of Thasung Tsholing, Shey and Samling, all of which are located at altitudes between 3,600 and 4,400 m. The communities of these villages are still largely intact; however, there is a growing threat of migration. There are still vernacular buildings that are possibly more than two hundred years old, as mentioned by the elderly local community members. Many are not being used and are being replaced with new buildings. The vernacular buildings have been documented, and possible reutilisation has been discussed. This paper also examines traditional building craftspeople and their knowledge. With the loss of traditional craftspeople, builders from the surrounding districts are hired to build new buildings, although the knowledge of maintaining the vernacular buildings is slowly disappearing. This paper concludes with recommendations for reviving traditional building crafts, developing a means of restoring the vernacular buildings and developing sustainable functions for local communities or by conversion to tourist accommodations.