Nepal & Tibet Architectures

Geographical

• Tibet is referred to as “The roof of the world”

• highest elevation on earth

Tundal

• supports the roof and often features deities

• carved strut

Tiki Jhya

• lattice wooden windows

• found in traditional houses of the Newar community

• usually located at the second floor; allows light and air

Gajur Serto

• pinnacle

• pointed spire at the top of temples/stupa

• gilded and ornate; simpler or symbolic

Rammed Earth and Stone

• materials provide excellent insulation against extreme climates

• form the basis of durable and sustainable construction

• Stone, wood, rammed earth, and adobe used locally and sustainably

Torana and Sertog

• significant architectural and decorative element used in South Asian

• used in Nepali, Indian, and Buddhist

Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)

• one of the oldest and most revered Buddhist Stupas in Nepal

• large white dome, gilded spire, Buddha’s eyes

• surrounded by smaller Chaityas represent evolution of sacred urban space in Nepal

Miaoying Temple

• often called White Stupa Temple or White Dagoba Temple

• One of Beijing's two most well-known white dagobas, the other is located in Beihai Park.

Araniko

• At the age of 17, Araniko headed a group of craftsmen who were dispatched

• constructed a Golden Stupa

Guru Padmasambhava

• Second Buddha

• revered tantric master from medieval India who brought Vajrayana Buddhism to Tibet in the 8th to 9th century.

Thangtong Gyalpo

• Chakzam Bridge

• first iron chain suspension bridge in Tibet

• made it easier for people to travel especially pilgrims who wanted to visit holy places

Chortens

domed religious structures representing Buddhist cosmology

Monasteries(Gompas)

• Fortress-like, multi-tiered with prayer halls, stupas,

• monk quarters; often perched on hills or cliffs

Sloped inward walls

Enhance stability during earthquakes and wind resistance

Climate

• Land of Snows

• Thick walls (whitewashed) and small windows to retain heat

Flat Roofs

• To collect snow and provide extra space.

• Suitable for dry, cold climate; often used for drying crops or ceremonial purposes

Whitewashed walls

• usually made of stone or mud

• thick for insulation

Tiered Roofs

temples have 2-3 pagoda style roofs stacked on top of each other stacked on top of each other

Courtyards (Chowks)

home and palaces often have central open courtyards

Roof design

Curved, upward-sloping roofs and multi-leveled pagodas show Chinese stylistic roots blended with local forms

Craftsmanship & Techniques

• stone carving, metalwork, and traditional motifs were adapted from Indian temple styles