Kathmandu Durbar Square lies in south central Kathmandu and south of Thamel Street. The Durbar Square is not far, about 20~30 minutes by walking from Thamel Street through some alleys, square and small temples along the way. Or tourists could also take a rickshaw or taxi to get there in several mintues. Durbar means “Palace” in Nepali language, Durbar Square once was the royal palace square of Malla Kings and the subsequent Shah Dynasty in Nepal. The original east palace was built in the middle of 16th century and later the square went through constant extension from Kings of Malla Kingdom. The Malla Dynasty is the first kingdom ruled Kathmandu Valley from the 13th century to middle 18th century. In 1768, Shah Dynasty - the last monarchy dynasty in Nepal history occupied Kathmandu Valley and built four more observatories in southeast of Durbar Square. All the following kings of Shah Dynasty lived here until they relocated to the new palace in 1886. After the royal family moved to Narayanhiti Palace, all the old palace - Durbar Square was kept as a museum with Kings’ portraits and lots of objects and photographs of King Tribhuvan. Kathmandu Durbar Square was severely damaged due to the Nepal earthquake in 2015, most structures were collapsed, among these, Kasthamandap and Maju Deval have been completely slumped, part of the old royal palace has collapsed and now is a dangerous building. Durbar Square is actually comprised of 3 distinct scattered temple squares. To the south of the Durbar Square is the Basantapur Square facing north Basantapur Durbar. Western of the Durbar Square, where many temples and famous sites assembled, is the primary area of the square. In the northeastern, it is the sub zone of Durbar Square with an entrance to former palace sites. Makhan Street - an open ground extending to northeast was a major traffic thoroughfares in Kathmandu and now is a very famous pedestrian street. The main scenic spots are Kasthamandap, Ashok Binayak, Kumari Bahal, Trailokya Mohan, Shiva – Parvati Mandir, Hanuman Dhoka (the old royal palace), Talaju Temple and Kala Bairav. Kasthamandap is a good place to start exploring the Durbar Square. (Tibet Discovery, 2020)

1. DISASTER RISK
ASSESSMENT
Kathmandu Durbar Square
Department
of
Architecture
Pulchowk Campus
Pulchowk, Lalitpur
Submitted by:
Abhishek Maharjan
Submitted to:
Asst. Prof. Inu Pradhan Salike

2. 1
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We would like to express our deepest appreciation to all those who provided us the possibility to
complete our report. A special gratitude to our supervisor Asst. Prof. Inu Pradhan Salike, for providing
her invaluable guidance, comments and suggestion to widen the horizon of our knowledge on various
aspects of disaster risk management and for the preparation of this report. We are thankful to Pulchowk
campus and Department of architecture for the assistance provided with various resources and
information. We are truly thankful to all the locals and authorities for helping us with the information
required for detailed study of the Kathmandu Durbar Square. Furthermore, we would also like to
acknowledge with much appreciation the role of our friends and seniors who helped us with their
knowledge and provided us their continuous support. Last but not the least we would like to thank each
and every one who supported or helped directly or indirectly to prepare this report.

3. 2
Contents
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY .....................................................................................................5
Kasthamandap....................................................................................................................................5
Kumari Bahal.....................................................................................................................................6
Hanuman Dhoka Durbar....................................................................................................................6
Taleju Temple....................................................................................................................................6
Kala Bhairab ......................................................................................................................................6
Shiva – Parvati Mandir ......................................................................................................................7
Maju Dega..........................................................................................................................................7
Timeline of events after 2015 earthquake in Kathmandu Durbar Square .............................................7
Photo Exhibition ..................................................................................................................................23
Establishment of CHIMS.....................................................................................................................23
Material and Structures........................................................................................................................23
Soft walls .............................................................................................................................................24
Retaining Authenticity.........................................................................................................................25
Threats..................................................................................................................................................26
Kathmandu Durbar Square reconstruction under Warsaw recommendation ......................................26
Mitigating measures.............................................................................................................................28
Infrastructure measures....................................................................................................................28
Institutional measures ......................................................................................................................28
Conclusion ...........................................................................................................................................29

4. 3
List of figures
Figure 1: Through investigation in Hanumandhoka Durbar Square......................................................8
Figure 2: Classification of carved members ..........................................................................................9
Figure 4: Constructed Storage Facilities..............................................................................................10
Figure 3: Storage condition of structural memebers............................................................................10
Figure 5: Balloons dedicated to the memory of the people who died in the massive earthquake of April
25, 2015 are released into the sky at Basantapur Durbar Square in Kathmandu on June 27, 2015. ...11
Figure 6: Workers renovate heritage sites in Basantapur Durbar Square in Kathmandu on July 21,
2015......................................................................................................................................................11
Figure 7: Example of the investigation sheet.......................................................................................12
Figure 8: Shows the selected area for 3D measurement depicted using actual survey results ............12
Figure 9: Nepalese students walk past a makeshift school in Durbar Square in Kathmandu on July 22,
2015......................................................................................................................................................12
Figure 10: Workers renovate heritage sites in Basantapur Durbar Square in Kathmandu, Nepal, on July
21, 2015. The sites were destroyed by twin earthquakes that struck the Himalayan nation in April and
May 2015. ............................................................................................................................................12
Figure 11: . Equipments for micro-tremor measurement.....................................................................13
Figure 12: Representative Fourier amplitude ratio for the Jagannath Temple (E-W direction).........13
Figure 13: . Representative vibration mode for the Jagannath Temple (E-W direction).....................13
Figure 14: Example of the identification card .....................................................................................14
Figure 15: Reconstruction of Panchamukhi Hanuman Temple...........................................................15
Figure 16: Reconstruction of Degu Taleju Temple .............................................................................15
Figure 17: Taleju Temple.....................................................................................................................15
Figure 18: Renovation of Sewta Vairab Temple .................................................................................16
Figure 19: Natyeshwor Temple ...........................................................................................................16
Figure 20: Collapsed and partially damaged Shiva Temple ................................................................16
Figure 21: Laxmi Narayan Temple......................................................................................................16
Figure 22: Reconstructed Kageswar Temple.......................................................................................17
Figure 23: Sawaswati Temple..............................................................................................................17
Figure 24: Reconstructed Chyasin Dega..............................................................................................17
Figure 25: Stone Pillar with the statue of King Pratap Malla..............................................................18
Figure 26: Trailokya Mohan Narayan Temple ....................................................................................18
Figure 27: : Kasthamandap reconstruction ..........................................................................................18
Figure 28: Mahavisnu Temple.............................................................................................................19
Figure 29: Nagaraghar .........................................................................................................................19
Figure 30: Singha Sattal.......................................................................................................................20
Figure 31: Jagannatsh Temple .............................................................................................................20
Figure 32: Gopinath Temple................................................................................................................20
Figure 33: Aagamchhen.......................................................................................................................20
Figure 34: Basantapur Tower...............................................................................................................21
Figure 35: Gaddi Baithak....................................................................................................................21
Figure 36: Shiva Temple......................................................................................................................22
Figure 37: Tarini Devi Temple ............................................................................................................22
Figure 38:Restoration work by Chinese worker of all four towers .....................................................22
Figure 39: Photo Exhibition.................................................................................................................23
Figure 40: Female worker manufacturing dātiapā bricks ....................................................................23

5. 4
Figure 41: Taking out dātiapā bricks from the brick kiln....................................................................24
Figure 42: Wall section dātiapā bricks.................................................................................................24
Figure 43: Roof tiles (Durbar Square) .................................................................................................25

6. 5
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
Kathmandu Durbar Square lies in south central Kathmandu and south of Thamel Street. The Durbar
Square is not far, about 20~30 minutes by walking from Thamel Street through some alleys, square
and small temples along the way. Or tourists could also take a rickshaw or taxi to get there in several
mintues.
Durbar means “Palace” in Nepali language, Durbar Square once was the royal palace square of Malla
Kings and the subsequent Shah Dynasty in Nepal. The original east palace was built in the middle of
16th century and later the square went through constant extension from Kings of Malla Kingdom.
The Malla Dynasty is the first kingdom ruled Kathmandu Valley from the 13th century to middle 18th
century. In 1768, Shah Dynasty - the last monarchy dynasty in Nepal history occupied Kathmandu
Valley and built four more observatories in southeast of Durbar Square. All the following kings of
Shah Dynasty lived here until they relocated to the new palace in 1886. After the royal family moved
to Narayanhiti Palace, all the old palace - Durbar Square was kept as a museum with Kings’ portraits
and lots of objects and photographs of King Tribhuvan. Kathmandu Durbar Square was severely
damaged due to the Nepal earthquake in 2015, most structures were collapsed, among these,
Kasthamandap and Maju Deval have been completely slumped, part of the old royal palace has
collapsed and now is a dangerous building.
Durbar Square is actually comprised of 3 distinct scattered temple squares. To the south of the Durbar
Square is the Basantapur Square facing north Basantapur Durbar. Western of the Durbar Square, where
many temples and famous sites assembled, is the primary area of the square. In the northeastern, it is
the sub zone of Durbar Square with an entrance to former palace sites. Makhan Street - an open ground
extending to northeast was a major traffic thoroughfares in Kathmandu and now is a very famous
pedestrian street. The main scenic spots are Kasthamandap, Ashok Binayak, Kumari Bahal, Trailokya
Mohan, Shiva – Parvati Mandir, Hanuman Dhoka (the old royal palace), Talaju Temple and Kala
Bairav. Kasthamandap is a good place to start exploring the Durbar Square. (Tibet Discovery, 2020)
Kasthamandap
Kasthamandap stands for “Kathmandu” in Nepalese. Locals believe the whole Kathmandu City was
constructed around Kasthamandap and it’s the origin of the name of Kathmandu City. Regarded as the
oldest building in Kathmandu Valley, the temple located in southwest of Durbar Square was built in
far 12th century with all wood from one single Shorea Assamica Dyer tree, served as a public house
for passing pilgrims and the passerby. It is a three-storey quadrangled pagoda building that is about
20m high. The log cabin at the center of Kasthamandap enshrines a Gorakhnath statue and there are
many Ganesh statues and baldachine of other gods in every corner of the yard. Ruined by Nepal
earthquake in 2015, Kasthamandap is under repair now. Ashok Binayak Temple with gilded roof is in
northern Kasthamandap Temple. (Tibet Discovery, 2020)

7. 6
Kumari Bahal
Situated in the southern side of the square and east of Kasthamandap, left side of entrance to Durbar
Square, Kumari Bahal, one of the must-sees in Kathmandu Durbar Square, is the residence of Kumari
- “the Living Goddess” of Nepal. The red brick building of three stories preserved many gorgeous and
exquisite woodcarvings like Buddha, peacocks and other pictorial on balcony and windows in the
courtyard. Trishna Shakya - a three years old girl, is a specially chosen for she is said to be the human
incarnation of the head Hindu goddess. If you are fortunate enough you may see her during one of her
public appearances on the third floor for 20~ 30s. Every day groups of visitors queues up to watch her
when she shows up. Currently only the first floor is opened for foreign tourists. No photographing is
allowed then, but tourists can buy postcards printed with headshot of the goddess in the gate. Trailokya
Mohan Narayan Temple lies in northern Kumari Bahal. (Tibet Discovery, 2020)
Hanuman Dhoka Durbar
Also called the Old Royal Palace, Haunaman Dhoka in eastern Durbar Square is the largest existing
historical sites, which contains the most abundant art collection in Nepal. Hanuman Dhoka means
hanuman door, a legend of the brave hanuman punishing the evil and praising the good commended
by people. Statues of hanuman stand on the stone pier of left palace gate, covered with a red brocade
canopy. The durbar was built in the 13th century initially and consummated mostly in the 17th century;
this grand palace has nearly 10 Chowks (palaces) for different purposes.
Foreign tourists are allowed to visit some halls, like the Tribhuvan Museum where you can overlook
the whole palace and Durbar Square from the top. Tickets for Hanuman Dhoka is excluded in Durbar
Square, should be bought separately. Now this old site is a dangerous building due to the Nepal
earthquake. (Tibet Discovery, 2020)
Taleju Temple
Built in 1549, Taleju Temple, a three-storeyed gold-plating eave tempio, is the highest temple in
Kathmandu with height of about 35m. As the most magnificent architecture in northern Durbar Square,
it is constructed on a 12-storeyed square base, having several little temples, stone carvings of lions,
monsters and etc. There are entrances on four sides of Taleju Temple, and Taleju Goddess is enshrined
in the middle of the lintel of the front door (golden gate) facing south.
Ordinarily it only opened for royal members in the past, now tourist can visit Taleju Temple during
Dasain Festival and irregular activities held by the temple to attract visitors. (Tibet Discovery, 2020)
Kala Bhairab
Kala Bharab is a giant stone statue of Kala Bhairab (Lord of Terror), one of the reincarnations of Shiva
in north of Durbar Square. With a 4~5 meters’ height, Kala Bharab is a grim-looking god holding

8. 7
sword, enemy’s head and dharma-vessels in six arms. It must be the most colorful spot in Durbar
Square for lots of people pray in front of the Kala Bhairab in the morning and daub red or yellow
pigment on the arms. (Tibet Discovery, 2020)
Shiva – Parvati Mandir
Next to Maju Deval in the west area, Shiva – Parvati Mandir is a two-storied wooden temple
worshiping the Shiva and his wife Parvati. Built by Malla Dynasty, it is now the best representative of
landscape architecture of Durbar Square. There are two huge stone lions guarding in the front door and
the statues of the couple are right above. Tourists often meet sadhu - look people sitting in front stairs,
they will ask for payment if you take group photos with them. (Tibet Discovery, 2020)
Maju Dega
In front of the Gaddi Baithak and to the west of Trailokya Mohan, stands the majestic three-storeyed
temple of Maju Dega. It has a nine-step brick base which gives it an impressive height that almost
dominates the Kathmandu Durbar Square skyline. After the temple of Taleju and Degu Taleju, Maju
Dega is the tallest and the largest temple in the Durbar Square area.
This temple was built in 1692 by Queen Mother Riddhi Laxmi (mother of infant King Bhupatendra
Malla) and hence its name Maju Dega or Temple of Queen Mother. Of all the temples constructed in
the storeyed style, Maju Deval remains so far the most remarkable one. The wooden doorway,
columns, windows, and struts are all beautifully carved. Inside the temple, there is an enormous shiva
linga, the emblem of Lord Shiva. (Tibet Discovery, 2020)
Timeline of events after 2015 earthquake in Kathmandu Durbar Square
 April 25, 2015
Time Events
11:00 AM Everyone was having normal daily life activity in Kathmandu Durbar Square
11:56 AM Earthquake of 7.8 Mw hit Nepal.
11:57 AM Many historical structures got damaged and collapsed. People who were below
Kasthamandap, Bamsa Gopal temple (Chyasin Dega), Trilokya Mohan Temple, and
Maju Dega got buried.
12:00 PM People ran and gather in the open space of Basantapur.

9. 8
12:15 PM Nepal police with rescue team, scenes of crime officers (SOCO) arrived with vans
and JBC and people were removing brick rumbles of collapsed Trilokya Mohan
Temple, and Maju Dega to rescue the people buried under.
12:30 PM After a series of aftershock one reaching 6.6Mw occurred leaving even more damage
to the structures.
1:00 PM People started to gather and helped the rescue team to remove the debris of collapsed
monuments to rescue the people buried under.
2:31 PM Military digger arrives
2:48 PM Someone trapped beneath the rumble was pull out
4:05 PM Survivor was rescued by hearing their scream
5:10 PM People living near basantapur came to see the situation of basantapur
7:00 PM Most of the people returned to their home but rescue team were continue working.
11:15PM Another aftershock of 6.7Mw occurred.
Figure 1: Through investigation in Hanumandhoka Durbar Square
Source:

10. 9
 April 26, 2015
Time Events
10:00 AM Most of the volunteer arrived in Kathmandu Durbar Square and seal the Durbar Square
for vehicle.
Everyone was separating wooden structure and placing the structure separately for
separate structure and also taking out the bodies
12:54 PM A major aftershock of magnitude 6.9 Mw hit Nepal.
6:00 PM Local people took out their sleeping/mats from their homes and place them on Basantapur
chowk because of the fear of series of aftershock
 April 27, 2015 – April 30, 2015
o Volunteer and rescue team finished removing bodies out of from the rubbles of
collapsed monuments and the work still continues of separating wood and brick.
o The bricks and timber inscription from collapsed monuments were arranged at the same
place where the monument are or used to stand. The timber structure with detail deities’
sculpture were kept inside the Lohan Chowk.
o Members were directly laid on the ground or on porch floors and covered with vinyl
sheets without any cushioning between members. (National Research Institute for
Cultural Properties, 2016)
o
 May 1, 2015, May 12, 2015
o Rope was used to prevent people from getting near to the fragile structure which
had high chance of getting collapsed and used raking shore and fly shoring were
used to prevent the heritage building and residential building at the alley respectively.
o People started to live inside their home and left the Basantapur chowk.
Figure 2: Classification of carved members

11. 10
o On May 12, 2015 at 12:30 PM 7.3 Mw earthquake again hit Nepal, leaving even more
damage to the fragile structure. Due to shoring the monuments got prevented from
getting further damage.
o After the earthquake again local people started living outside at Basantapur chowk.
o The storage facility was designed to be versatile and built from local materials. It
comprised three levels of shelving made from steel pipes fixed with clamps and a
single-flow roof made from corrugated steel sheets.
o Considering the volume of timber members to be stored, a 4 × 2 m facility was
built on the southeast corner of the lot to store the carved members identified in
the first stage. In the second stage, 6 × 2 m and 4 × 2 facilities were built on the
west side of the lot.
o The storage facilities were designed to allow all members stored at the same time
to be stored at the same location. Each member’s location inside the storage facility
was recorded, and wood pieces were inserted between members to protect them.
(National Research Institute for Cultural Properties, 2016)
 May 15, 2015 – May 23, 2015
o All the rumbles and salvage were removed from the huge stepped plinth and routes near
Maju Dega, Trailokya Mohan Narayan Temple and Gaiddi Baithak and stack them
Figure 3: Constructed Storage Facilities
Figure 4: Storage condition of structural memebers

12. 11
near to the monuments which were or used to be the structure of that monument. Roads/
routes got cleaned and accessible but was not suitable for vehicle.
 May 24, 2015 – May 31, 2015
o During this time, the weather was changing into monsoon and started to drizzle. The
workers were cleaning up the pile of rumbles with the help of JBC, bulldozer and truck.
 Month of June, 2015
o Investigation team from Nepal and international agencies came to Basantapur and
investigate whole Heritage building in the month of June.
o From UNESCO-ICOMOS/ICCROM ,
KVPT and DoA
o ICOMOS-The International Council on
Monuments and Sites
o ICCROM -The International Centre for
the Study of the Preservation and
Restoration of Cultural Property (The
Atlantic, 2015)
 July 10, 2015 – July 15, 2015
o Scaffolding were ordered to start the
renovation of heritage buildings and lots
of plastic bags/sheets were ordered to
protect the heritage from rain as it was the
season of monsoon. (The Atlantic, 2015)
 July 16, 2015 – July 20, 2015
o Scaffolding was connecting and building starting from Gaiddi Baithak. Scaffolding was
only set near at Gaiddi Baithak and Hanuman statue i.e. entry of Durbar Square. (The
Atlantic, 2015)
 July 21, 2015 – September, 2015
o Brought plastic sheets and covered only
some of the damaged or collapsed
monuments they were Nautalle,
Kashtamandap, Maju Dega, and Trailokya
Mohanto protect from rain as it was
monsoon season. Renovation was started
from month of July, 2015 by
Government of Nepal.
o Buildings that have suffered damage but
are still standing require more urgent
measures, such as shoring and covering,
to prevent further damage caused by rain
and aftershocks. If these measures are
inadequate, the cultural value of these buildings is at risk. Therefore, a survey on
emergency preservation measures was conducted during the initial mission in
September 2015
Figure 5: Balloons dedicated to the memory of the
people who died in the massive earthquake of April 25,
2015 are released into the sky at Basantapur Durbar
Square in Kathmandu on June 27, 2015.
Figure 6: Workers renovate heritage sites in
Basantapur Durbar Square in Kathmandu on July 21,
2015.

13. 12
Month of November, 2015 – Month of December, 2015
• Survey periods: 24–31 November 2015 3D and micro-tremor
measurements 24–28 December 2015 Building and material
survey
• Investigators: Koshihara Laboratory, Institute of Industrial Science, the University of Tokyo akiyama
Laboratory, Tokyo Metropolitan University Miyamoto Laboratory, Kagawa University (National
Research Institute for Cultural Properties, 2016)
Figure 10: Workers renovate heritage sites in Basantapur
Durbar Square in Kathmandu, Nepal, on July 21, 2015. The
sites were destroyed by twin earthquakes that struck the
Himalayan nation in April and May 2015.
Figure 9: Nepalese students walk past a makeshift
school in Durbar Square in Kathmandu on July 22,
2015.
Figure 8: Shows the selected area for 3D measurement depicted using
actual survey results
Figure 7: Example of the investigation
sheet

14. 13
Micro-tremor measurement
• Micro-tremors were measured to identify the natural frequency and vibration mode of each
subject building.
• Multiple measurements were taken: one on free ground, one on the podium, and several inside
the buildings. The measurement point on free ground was at the front of the building.
• The peak frequencies of the transfer function—2.6 Hz, 4.5 Hz, and 8.5 Hz—were estimated to
be first, second, and third natural frequencies of the building.
Portable vibration monitoring system (SPC-51) Servo-velocity meters (VSE-15D)
Figure 11: . Equipments for micro-tremor measurement
Figure 12: Representative Fourier amplitude ratio for the Jagannath Temple (E-W direction)
Figure 13: . Representative vibration mode for the Jagannath Temple (E-W direction)

15. 14
2016 – 2017
 Implementation of Conservation Guidelines and Manual
o The Post-Earthquake Conservation Guidelines 2072 and Manual, 2073; prepared
and implemented by the Government of Nepal, Department of Archaeology, for the
cultural heritage conservation and rehabilitation in the post-earthquake situation. All
the Post-Earthquake Conservation, Reconstruction and Rehabilitation activities
have been carrying out as per the provisions of this conservation guidelines, which
has been implemented in 2072 (2016) and the manual which has some provisions that
address to the disaster especially the Earthquake for the first time in connection to the
cultural heritage conservation and management in Nepal. (National Research Institute
for Cultural Properties, 2016)
 Preservation measures of timbers
o Subsequently, during the November 2015 and March 2016 missions, a
classification, recordkeeping, and storage methodology for salvaged members was
tested and evaluated using the Shiva Temple—where salvaged members are
relatively well preserved—as a case study,.
o In November 2015, a workshop on the classification, recordkeeping, and storage
methodology was conducted with local experts from the DoA, HDMDC, and
UNESCO to transfer this technical knowledge.
o The emergency preservation measures survey was conducted in two stages during
November 2015 and March 2016. Timber members had been gathered without regard
for their position and use before the collapse.
o Japanese experts and Nepalese workers from HDMDC worked cooperatively in
this effort. Beginning from the top of the member pile, carved elements were removed
and temporarily placed in the open lot according to the type of member. Complex
elements comprising several members, such as window frames, were collocated and
temporarily assembled. Elements were also classified according to carving motifs.
o The second stage of the emergency preservation measures survey was conducted
in March 2016. Long timber members from the main frame and eaves were sorted and
classified.
o Second stage activities included attaching identification cards to each of the members.
These identification cards are intended to be used regularly in future repairs. Currently,
Nepalese staff use identification cards made of plastic tape when classifying carved
members. Considering requirements
for durability and weather resistance,
6 × 4.5 cm veneer cards—similar to
those used for the conservation of
cultural properties in Japan—were
prepared. The card format and
content were designed to be simple
and widely applicable, including
only a building number, a storey
number, a member number, and a
consecutive category number given
the total number of category
members.
Figure 14: Example of the identification card

16. 15
The restoration was started with the building which was partially damaged and can also be
repair/reconstruct within the budget. Different organization like Museum Development Committee,
Kathmandu Valley Preservation Trust (KVPT), Department of Archaeology, and Kathmandu
Metropolitan City took the responsibility to reconstruct the
heritage building.
1. Museum Development Committee
a. Conservation of Panchamukhi Hanuman Temple
The conservation work of Panchamukhi Hanuman Temple,
a prominent multi roofed temple in the palace premises is
completed as first completion after the earthquake. The
southern wing of the Mohankali chowk is also conserved
as well within the same project budget. However, the
project was started before the earthquake, but due to the
earthquake it was obstructed for some months. The project
was under taken by the joint fund of Hanuman Dhoka
Museum Development Committee and American
Ambassadors fund for Culture Preservation; in the
supervision and monitoring by the Department of Archaeology. The conservation work
carried out using traditional material, technology and craftsmanship.
b. Conservation of Dega Taleju Temple
The conservation work of Degu Taleju was also
completed in fiscal year 207273, recently after the
earthquake. This temple was also of the monuments
damaged by the devastating earthquake.
The Degu Taleju is tutelary deity of Malla Kings. This
temple was built by King Shiva Simha Dev in 17th Century. This is one of the important
monuments situated within Hanumandhoka durbar complex. The conservation work of this
temple is completed with traditional material
c. Conservation of Taleju Temple
The conservation of Taleju temple is completed.
Taleju Temple is biggest monument and landmark
of Kathmandu Durbar Square. Taleju is a tutelary
deity of Malla Kings. The temple was affected by
the earthquake; especially in top and second roof
and all the small 12 temples on the plinth as well.
The conservation work of main temple is completed
Figure 15: Reconstruction of
Panchamukhi Hanuman Temple
Figure 16: Reconstruction of Degu
Taleju Temple
Figure 17: Taleju Temple

17. 16
and the small temple structures (Kachhadega – 12
in numbers) built on the plinth of the temple has
also completed recently.
d. Conservation of Swet Vairab Temple
Conservation of the Sweta Bhairav Temple
attached to Degutaleju is already completed. The
recently restored temple of Bhairav was partially
affected by the earthquake and well shored just
after the quake to protect from the further
destruction. Hanumandhoka Palace Museum
Development Committee had taken total
responsibility of the conservation under the close inspection
of DoA.
e. Conservation of Natyeshwor Temple
The conservation of Natyeshwor temple by Hanumandhoka
Durbar Museum Development Committee has completed.
The temple was partially collapsed due to the earthquake.
Replacing mud mortar by lime-surkhi mortar, the temple
has completed the conservation work with traditional
techniques and materials as it was before. Though small in size, the temple inside the palace
premises holds the major cultural and religious importance.
2. Kathmandu Valley Preservation Trust
a. Conservation of Shiva Temple
Conservation of the Shiva temple just outside of
main gate of Taleju temple is completed. One of two
Shiva temples in front of Taleju gate was collapsed
and the northern one was badly affected by the
earthquake. The total responsibility of conserving
the small but beautiful two roofed temple of the right
side of the gate which was not collapsed but badly affected was taken by Kathmandu Valley
Preservation Trust. Applying the mud mortar the
temple is conserved with traditional method and
material as it was built before.
b. Conservation of Laxmi Narayan Temple
Conservation of the Laxmi Narayan temple just
backside of Kalbhairab in Hanumadhoka which was
badly affected by the earthquake is completed. The
total responsibility of conserving this small but
beautiful two roofed temple was taken by
Kathmandu Valley Preservation Trust. Applying the
mud mortar the temple is conserved with traditional
Figure 18: Renovation of Sewta Vairab
Temple
Figure 19: Natyeshwor Temple
Figure 20: Collapsed and partially
damaged Shiva Temple
Figure 21: Laxmi Narayan Temple

18. 17
method and material as it was built before. Adding few necessary wood, all the wooden
members from the temple is reused in conservation.
c. Conservation of Kageswar Temple
The kageswor Temple, on the west of Taleju, originally
built in 1681 and rebuilt after the earthquake of 1934
and lastly restored by Kathmandu Valley Preservation
Trust (KVPT) before 10 years was partially collapsed
by the 2015 earthquake. The after earthquake
restoration of the temple is completion. The total
responsibility of conserving this temple is taken by
Kathmandu Valley Preservation Trust (KVPT). The
temple is conserved with traditional method and
material as it was built before.
d. Saraswati Temple
The one storey Nepali style temple dedicated to
Goddess Saraswati located on the just south of
Bamsagopal temple in Hanumandhoka Palace Square
is completed. The temple was not collapsed but
affected by the 2015 earthquake. The temple is
conserved over the plinth level preserving the original
foundation and plinth as it is; and conserved the over
structure with minimum intervention reusing all the
useable elements of the original temple. The total
responsibility of conserving this temple is taken by
Kathmandu Valley Preservation Trust (KVPT). The temple is conserved with traditional
method and material as it was built before.
3. Government of Nepal ( Department of Archeology)
a. Bamsa Gopal Temple (Chyasin Dega) Restoration
The renovation work of Bal Gopal temple also called
Chyasing Dega is completed. This temple is a
prominent multi roof temple in octagonal shape,
devoted to lord Krishna was completely damaged by
the earthquake. The temple is restored by Department
of Archaeology. As the temple was built by the
massive use of traditional brick, wood and terracotta
tiles, full consideration is paid to restore the temple
with the use of traditional technique and materials
reusing the old wooden and other elements as much
as possible. Since the 'Surkhi mortar', the mixture of
lime, sand and brick powder, is accepted as a
traditional construction material, Surkhi mortar is used
in restoration of the temple instead of mud mortar.
Figure 22: Reconstructed Kageswar
Temple
Figure 23: Sawaswati Temple
Figure 24: Reconstructed Chyasin Dega

19. 18
b. Pratab Stambha (The Stone Pillar with the Statue of King
Pratab Malla)
The Stone Pillar with the metal statue of King Pratap Malla
in front of Degu Taleju temple in Hanumandhoka was
partially collapsed by the earthquake. The metal statue was
fallen with its stone capital part. The statue of King Pratap
Malla with his two queens and four sons were badly
damaged. It had taken considerable time of skilled artists for
the conservation of the damaged metal statue. The huge
stone capital of the pillar was lifted using traditional
knowledge and technique to set the statue over it. Now the
Pratap Stone Pillar is well restored in its original condition.
c. Restoration of Trailokya Mohan Narayan Temple
The Restoration Work of Trailokya Mohan temple is ongoing.
The Trailokya Mohan Narayan Temple is also known as
Dasavatar temple on north-west side of Kumari Temple, was
built in early 18th
century. The super structure of the three
tiered multi roof temple was completely destroyed by the
earthquake. After the detail investigation with emergency
archaeological excavation, the restoration work was already
started with the concept of utilizing almost wooden artistic
and other remaining material of the same temple replacing
the damaged by new one. The already separated and
inventoried wooden elements are being reassembled and
conserved for reuse. Other necessary new wooden elements
also are being prepared as well.
4. Kathmandu Metropolitan City
a. Restoration of Kasthamandapa
Kasthamandap also known as Maru Sattal; literally
"Wooden Shelter" is a three-storied public resting shelter
that enshrined Gorakshanath, situated in Hanumandhoka
Protected monument Zone in the Southwestern corner of
Durbar Square was completely collapsed by the by the
2015 earthquake.
Several myths and stories about the date of the
construction of the structure of the Kasthamandap have
been resolved with the recent archeological findings. The
newly discovered objects during the rescue excavation in
the aftermath of the earthquake have suggested that the Kasthamandap may have been built
in the 7th century during the Lichhavi era. Before this, it was assumed that the
Kasthamandap was built in around the 12th century.
Figure 25: Stone Pillar with
the statue of King Pratap
Malla
Figure 26: Trailokya Mohan
Narayan Temple
Figure 27: : Kasthamandap
reconstruction

20. 19
A team of national and international experts from the Department of Archaeology (DoA),
Government of Nepal and Durham University with the financial support of UNESCO, had
conducted a research excavation in the area. Regarding the restoration of Kasthamandap, it
is being restored by the local community leaded by "Kastamandap Punanirman Committee"
with the fund provided by Kathmandu Metropolitan City office.
Under the project funded by UNESCO, all the remaining wooden and other materials of
the temple are salvaged and well documented. On the restoration of the temple, all those
salvaged reusable elements of the structure are being reused.
b. Mahavishnu temple
The temple of Vishnu known as Mahavisnu temple is
located on the northwestern corner of Hanumandhoka
Durbar Square. The temple was partially affected by the
earthquake. However, as the temple was restored few
years before the earthquake, a building west of the temple
was collapsed and fallen over the Mahavishnu temple
damaging the temple structure partially. The western
portion of the first roof was more affected and also the
brick walls in the ground floor were cracked. The
conservation work of the temple is ongoing. Presently the
first floor conservation is completed. The total
responsibility of the temple conservation was taken by
Kathmandu Metropolitan City Office. For strengthening
the structural strength of temple the use of wooden
elements is increase in considerable number.
c. Restoration of Nagaraghar
The Naghara Ghar, big Drum house, built in early 20th
Century,
situated west of Degutale temple in Hanumandhoka Palace
Square is a monument of cultural and historical significance. The
Conservation work of this structure is completed within a year of
earthquake. Replacing the mud mortar by lime mortar the house
is conserved with traditional method and material as it was built
before. Kathmandu Metropolitan City had taken the total
responsibility of the conservation under the close inspection of
Department of Archaeology
d. Renovation of Singha Sattal
The Restoration of Singha Sattal, popularly known as Silyan
Sattal(Traditional Rest House) is completed. The Sattal with a shrine of Natyeswar (god
of dance) inside it was in dilapidated condition for a long time. Under the direct inspection
of DoA, with detail documentation, it is conserved by KMC and Guthi Sansthan.
Traditional types of bricks, Jhigati roof tile and timber are the major construction material
as it was used before.
Figure 28: Mahavisnu Temple
Figure 29: Nagaraghar

21. 20
Since the construction of the structure is traditionally
and mythically connected with Kasthamandap, it was
believed to be built in the 12th century; since the
recent archaeological investigation has proven the
Kasthamandapa older than that period, while
restoring this monument, the architect and
archaeologist involved have paid very careful
attention.
5. Restoration projects by International Assistance
a. Jagannatsh Temple
Jagannath temple in front of main entrance of the
palace is under conservation. The temple is being
conserved under the UNESCO- Hainan project. The
detail structural assessment and architectural study of
the temple is completed. Since the temple is targeted
to strengthen without dismantling entire structure; the
modality of strengthening the temple is also identified
by series of meeting with experts and local
stakeholders with close coordination of Department
of archaeology.
b. Conservation of Shree Krishna Maha Vishnu
(Gopinath) Temple
Among the two monuments to be conserved under
UNESCO- Hainan Project, Shree Krishna Maha
Vishnu Temple, also known as
Gopinath, is another one. The temple also was
partially affected by the earthquake. The detail
structural assessment of Gopinath temple is already
completed; and finalized the modality of
strengthening of the temple without dismantling
entire structure. After presenting the detail of the
modality and the procedure of the local stakeholder
conservation work of the temple is already started.
c. Conservation of Aaganchhen and Western wing of the palace
Since the western wing including the main entrance
of the palace was largely affected by the
earthquake, the over structure of sacred
Aagamchhen over the western long was suspected
to be effected heavily, National Research Institute
for Cultural Properties, Tokyo had had a detail
structural. investigation of the entire structure
with of and Hanumandhoka Palace Museum
Development Committee. The project is approved
Figure 30: Singha Sattal
Figure 31: Jagannatsh Temple
Figure 32: Gopinath Temple
Figure 33: Aagamchhen

22. 21
by Department of Archaeology. The Agamchhen and the western wing of the palace is
going to be conserved by Department of Archaeology through the support of Government
of Japan
d. Restoration of Nine Storey Palace
The Nine Storey Palace also known as
Basantapur Durbar is being conserved under
the support of Government of Peoples
Republic of China. Government of Nepal
and Government of China have signed the
MOU to conserve the Nine Storey Durbar
along with the adjacent buildings of
Bhaktapur tower, Lalitpur tower and Kirtipur
tower. Officially the project had launched in
15th
August 2017 in the presence of vice
president from the China and director
general of Department of Archaeology in a
special program held in the palace premises. Minimum intervention has been the major
modality of the conservation work; and as reported, 50 percent of total work is completed.
e. Conservation of Gaddi Baithak
Since the first phase of strengthening work of
Gaddi Bhithak is completed with the
completion of the main building of Gaddi
Baithk, the second phase is started with
interior upgrading and structural
strengthening work of adjacent building
including main entrance of the Gaddi
Baithak.
The Gaddi Baithak situated in Hanumandhoka
Protected Monument Zone, in front of Kumari
Ghar, is a neo-classical monument building
built in 1908 AD by Prime Minister Chandra
Samsher Rana. This monument was heavily damaged by the earthquake. Miyamoto Global
Disaster Relief has undertaken the total responsibility of repair and structural upgrade of
the building with a grant provided by the US Ambassador's Fund of Cultural Preservation.
The project is being executed under the signed MoU between Department of Archaeology,
Government of Nepal and Miyamoto Global Disaster Relief.
6. Local community
a. Conservation of Tarini Devi Temple.
The Tarinidevi temple conservation work is completed. The temple of Tarinidevi, also
known as Tarini Bahal, in Hanumandhoka protected monument zone, is located outside the
palace premises. The temple was targeted to conserve before the earthquake and was more
Figure 34: Basantapur Tower
Figure 35: Gaddi Baithak

23. 22
damaged by the earthquake. The temple is
conserved in initiative of local community with the
mutual fund of municipality and community under
the close inspection of the Department of
Archaeology.
b. Conservation of Shiva Temple
The next Shiva temple in front of Taleju Gate is
also under restoration. As mentioned above, the
temple in the north side was already conserved by
KVPT and the southern one which was completely
collapsed by the earthquake 2015 is being restored
by local community named Newa Guhali Pucha.
Since almost all the wooden emblems of the temple
were salvaged and well stored with detail
documentation, all the reusable carved wooden
emblems are being reused in the restoration work.
The temple is being restored using mud mortar as
it was originally. Except carved artistic reusable
elements other structural wooden elements of the
temple are replaced with new timber. (Government
of Nepal, 2019)
 2017 – 2018
o Other than the above-mentioned
monuments, restoration were
not started till 2017 in Gaiddi
Baithak, Nine story palace,
Shiva-Parvati temple, Maju
dega, Trailokya Mohan Narayan
temple and others. This leads to
deterioration of the monuments
and greenery started to grow
from the monuments.
o The request of the Nepali
government, the Chinese
government shouldered the project to restore the complex. The team with expertise in
restoring historical Tibetan
buildings from the Chinese
Academy of Cultural Heritage (CACH) thereupon arrived in Kathmandu.
o The heritage was seriously damaged and the only protection of the heritage was the plastic
sheet covering the complex. Immediate precaution measures were taken to keep them from
secondary damage.
o Steel wire mesh were placed at the complex to eliminate the potential risks in the cripple
complex and almost took half a year to complete.
Figure 37: Tarini Devi Temple
Figure 36: Shiva Temple
Figure 38:Restoration work by Chinese worker of all four towers

24. 23
o While the Chinese team were working, they found that the detailing in the timber were
different then their culture. So, the Chinese team visited many Nepali villages to invite
skilled workers to join the restoration team.
o In 2018, they completed Gaiddi Baithak, Lalitpur tower, Bhaktapur tower, and Kirtipur
tower but Kathmandu tower was still remaining and other parts of the complex.
o Also, due to lots of controversy and budget problem the reconstruction of Kastamandap
finally started along with Maju dega and Trailokya Mohan temple. (Xinhua net, 2019)
Photo Exhibition
The photo exhibition programs have been continuing
after the earthquake. It is found as one of the best
approaches to make aware to the communities; especially
to the local residents of the World Heritage Sites. The
exhibition of photographs provided the feedback
containing several positive and negative activities and
approaches that they have been doing towards heritage
and the sites. Good feedback has been receiving from
locals and professionals, especially the private building
owners, who feel much guilty and come to the process
for correction of their building, if they have been breaching any provision of the bylaws. (National
Research Institute for Cultural Properties, 2016)
Establishment of CHIMS
Cultural Heritage Information Management System (CHIMS), a database documentation system is
established in DoA. Establishing Cultural Heritage Information Management System (CHIMS) in
Department of Archaeology is an important achievement on heritage documentation and information
management. UNESCO Kathmandu office has been supporting financially and technically for the
project. It is aimed to develop a fully scientific documentation database system in DoA. A different
Documentation Unit in coordination of WH Conservation Section head is also established within DoA.
(National Research Institute for Cultural Properties, 2016)
Material and Structures
The concrete knowledge about Newar building techniques
has been gained through conservation and restoration works.
The main structural materials are timber and brick. Employed
wood species are sal (Shorea robusta) and chir pine (Pinus
roxburghii, locally known as agrākh and sallā). In addition,
the gvālchāsĩ (chirauni) of the Theaceae family and the ring-
cupped oak (Quercus glauca) of the Fagaceae family are
also used. Sal, a hardwood, is widely employed in
architectural members such as pillars, purlins, struts, and door leaves for its excellent resistance to
water and its durability. Chir pine is relatively lighter and
Figure 39: Photo Exhibition
Figure 40: Female worker manufacturing
dātiapā bricks

25. 24
employed for long members, such as floor joists,
roof beams, and rafters.
It is not possible to obtain long size timbers in
lumber stores in Kathmandu City, but is probably
possible to import them. In lumber stores, thin sal
wood boards up to 9 feet long can be found. It is
also easy to find chir pine members up to 2-3
meters long. Thus, it is an issue to find good quality
long size members for their use in restoration work.
Bricks are made with wooden moulds, and can be
sun dried or fired bricks burnt in a kiln. There are two types of fired bricks: māapā, which are the
main material in structural walls, and dātiapā, which are used as finishing material in the outer walls.
Dātiapā bricks are shaped like a wedge, leaving a
space for the joint to the inside of the wall and no
joint to the outside. In addition, there are roof tiles and floor tiles (cikãapā). There are also some
roofing tiles, such as ā͂ypā or jhīgatī, which have a rail for a hook and a protrusion, and gvāgaḥcā,
which are shaped like a bird and used in the corners.
These bricks are produced using traditional technologies still today, and it is possible to see these
brick factories. Many factories are mechanized and have horseshoe-shaped kilns that make mass
production possible, but these are factories for general construction bricks. Brick production is still
intense during the dry season. The pictures show a traditional brick factory in Bhaktapur where māapā
and dātiapā bricks, which are still under demand, are made by hand. The brick kiln is made in a place
with abundance of grey clay; clay is excavated from the fields, refined with water, and stirred with a
machine. There were about 20 female workers, and they performed tasks such as making the wooden
molds, sun drying the bricks, and reshaping them. The brick kiln was shaped like a vault and allowed
for good quality production. It is dubious if good quality clay will still be obtainable in the future, but
for the moment it is possible to obtain traditional bricks for restoration work. There are certain
factories that have old-style kilns, but managing the temperature in these kilns is difficult, and there
is a need for further surveys on the present state of the production techniques. (National Research
Institute for Cultural Properties, 2016)
Soft walls
The most prominent feature of traditional architecture in Nepal is the
brick masonry wall. The masonry technique of the outside of the wall,
where bricks are laid without joints, gives the outside its characteristic
appearance. However, to the inside a different brick laying technique
and bricks with different sizes are employed. This technique requires a
careful study.
On the other hand, the timber structure is designed to allow
displacements. This suggests the possibility that the structure is not
designed to be rigid, but rather to absorb the earthquake energy through
a vibration control system.
It is possible that the same idea lays behind the roofing technique, where
small sized tiles are simply laid on a clay layer. It can be thought that
Figure 41: Taking out dātiapā bricks from the brick kiln
Figure 42: Wall section dātiapā
bricks

26. 25
this design was intended to allow the tiles to fall down in
the case of an earthquake in order to make the roof load
lighter.
The building technique in this region can be understood
as a wooden frame filled with brick masonry. However,
this brick masonry is quite unique, since bricks are set
with mud and there is no turn the wall into a single rigid
body. We could say that buildings have soft walls. It is
necessary to think again the reason behind this building
technique.
These buildings are often understood as having a mixed
structure made of timber and brick. However, we can
also think that these brick masonry soft walls behave as dampers during an earthquake. We have to
hope that further structural analysis of traditional architecture is conducted in order to clarify the
unique building technique of past: Nepal. If we study the timber frame and the brick masonry
separately, we can easily come to the conclusion that the frame is insufficiently tied and the masonry
is careless. A deeper and comprehensive analysis is requiring to reveal the true meaning of the building
techniques in Nepal. (National Research Institute for Cultural Properties, 2016)
Retaining Authenticity
 Form and Design
o There were no changes in the form and design after the completion of reconstruction of
some monuments and also the form and design is being followed in the monuments that is
being reconstructed.
 Approach and Reconstruction
o In past: There was no proper understanding of reconstruction and in the name of
reconstruction concrete is found to be use in some monuments.
o At present: Community based approach for reconstruction. Large and elaborate committee
for reconstruction with every specific work division, based on experts the decisions are
with community representatives.
 Material:
o Old and New
o For reconstruction now materials were being used only some useable salvage material were
available.
o Facilitation of materials
o Salvage materials which were in good condition were treated and were being used for
reconstruction. Different agencies like Nepal timber corporation, stone quarry in Banep and
different brick factories were approached for new materials
o Sorting and store
o The salvage materials were stored in Lohan Chowk of Hanumandhoka by constructing
temporary structure inside Nepal Police and Security of Hanumandhoka
o Salvage materials -reuse
o Many materials were lost during reuse operation and slow damage assessment. New timber
wood was orderd from Nepal timber coorperation, ud mortar from Dharahara’s foundation,
mud fill: Pango Maato of Tahachal, stone query form Banepa.
Figure 43: Roof tiles (Durbar Square)

27. 26
o Less than 10% salvage materials were used during reconstruction
 Use and Function/Technology
o The technology used for reconstruction of the heritage monuments are traditional method
using only brick and timber. By doing lots of research, experts came up with better structure
design of traditional building like adding horizontal timber band.
 Problems Faced
o There was limited source of documentation to start the reconstruction of Heritage
monuments. The sources which have drawings lacked structural detailing as well as internal
detailing. To collect the information experts started to research on the monuments which
took them more than 1 and half year to start the project.
 Documentation of the construction work
o Verification and structural analysis was done.
o Daily photograph was taken
o Daily log was prepared by technical team.
o Documentation was prepared when site analysis was done.
o Different parts of detail drawings were prepared.
o Report was prepared when any work was completed.
o Photographers and architects were hired for any documentation.
Threats
 Existing threats
o Site is exposed to growing urban fabric that threatens the authenticity by setting and
location.
 Extent of the vulnerability
o Vulnerable, if no proper maintenance is done over time.
 Vandalism
o No sort of vandalism has been ever accounted.
 Accounts of thefts or losses of precious material
o Losses of previous materials due to the lack of immediate response and structure during
disaster.
Kathmandu Durbar Square reconstruction under Warsaw recommendation
1) Value
Most of the monuments were restored to its original form and design and rest are ongoing
reconstruction. For reconstruction traditional material were used as per the specification by
Department of Archeology. All the craftsmen were from Bhaktapur and Lalitpur and in all project
skilled and semi-skilled manpower are locals with traditional techniques.
2) Conservation Doctrine
After the earthquake 2015, the building surrounding cultural heritage which got damaged or
collapsed weren’t allowed to build more than two floor or higher than the site because to conserve
the cultural landscapes and to also conserve the intangible heritage.

28. 27
3) Communities
The participation of local people were less during reconstruction. The craftsmen were from
Bhaktapur and Lalitpur i.e. most of the monuments are being reconstructed with the help of
organization outside the community.
4) Allowing Time for reflection
Reconstruction was started in the month of July, 2015 but 2017 was the turning point of
reconstruction. For two-year experts’ opinion was taken whenever necessary, photo exhibition was
held to aware the local communities. Different programs on conservation was held in DoA with
active participation of local people and communities and Ghutis opinion were also considered.
5) Resilience, capacities and sustainability
Modern techniques of construction were also considered while its traditional integrity is
maintained. Lime shurkhi mortar is used instead of traditional mud mortar as per structural
analysis, minute internal changes were done for the strengthening.
Lack of technical manpower experienced in historic buildings and code of assessment.
Stakeholders trained to some amount on earthquake response, heritage conservation, scientific
documentation by DoA, UNESCO, ICCROM, etc and skilled artisans from Bhaktapur and Lalitpur
are taken for the reconstruction of heritages.
6) Memory and reconciliation
Missing or unusable parts were replaced with replicas but incase of no documentation the artistic
elements are left plain. There is no information regarding history and earquake damage is missing.
7) Documentation
During earthquake, all of the monuments got damaged in Kathmandu Durbar Square. During
reconstruction period there was no documentation of any monuments. So, to collect the document
it took more than a year to start the reconstruction of heritages. The damages after the earthquake
were documented by DoA, International agencies, Museum development committee and so on.
Reconstruction process are also being documented on daily basis through photographs, drawings
and videos.
8) Planning
Considered physical attributes with a a larger urban context as facadism in buffer and sub-buffer
zone. The use of monument is considered before its reconstruction. This will ensure the continuous
use and sustainability of the monument
9) Governance
Guideline and manual development after earthquake were followed. Planning for disaster response
and reconstruction is missing. Safe storage area, assessment form where not defined. Meeting of
steering committee is conducted in every 2 months. Difficult in availability of fund and auditing is
done every year.
10) Education and Awareness
Lack of educational and awareness program in the community level about importance and values
of heritage. Considering the facts, community realization have reach more in Bhaktapur compare

29. 28
to other cities of Kathmandu valley. But these realizations are not sufficient to sustain the heritage.
The awareness programs are being conducted by Department of Archelogy
Mitigating measures
Infrastructure measures
 Proper identification of storage
All the salvage were stored on open and moist area inside Lohan Chowk. Only plastic cover were
used to protect from rain and sun. There should be proper storage area for valuable historical items
with proper precaution taken.
 Repair and Maintenance
Twice a year, government should send the experts to examine the historical monuments for
periodic repair and maintenance.
 Workshop for wood carving
Wood carving workshop should be provided near or inside the heritage like Patan Durbar Square
for preparing skilled craftsman for future disaster. Wood carving can also be exhibited inside
museum showing traditional carving method. It may also attract the new generation who are
interested in wood carving which will increase the number of skilled craftsman.
 Documentation
Most of the recorded documents of heritage building are from foreign writers and those documents
are limited only to most of the popular temples and monuments. Each heritage needed to be
documented yearly because in the upcoming disaster it would be easy to reconstruct any heritage
building in short time and the traditional technology will always be recorded for new generation to
study.
 Protection of Heritage building from getting deterioration after disaster
These building needs to be in constant observation otherwise it may further get damaged by rain,
heat, cold and also plant will grow over it.
Institutional measures
• Institutional mechanisms should strengthen coordination and build capacity to deal with
specific related to heritage assets in the aftermath of a disaster.
• Risk preparedness should not be conceived only in emergency situations but interwoven into
the routine management of cultural heritage resources by different institutions.
• Heritage staff and professionals should be included in the local disaster planning exercises and
should ne informed of imminent disaster earthquake. Planning on the heritage site level
requires that these professionals are trained in emergency management and they area able to
communicate and train their own staff and c
• Disaster recovery frameworks, which included in the local disaster planning exercises and
should be informed of imminent disasters earthquake. Planning on the heritage site level

30. 29
require that these professionals are trained in emergency management and they are able to
communicate and train their own staff and communities.
• Disaster recovery frameworks, which include the culture sector and link national development
strategies and plans with a general recovery vision and targets, must be prepared and agreed on
by the relevant reconstruction.
• Cultural Emergency Response programs through its funding initiative Patrimonies, both
support the protection and preservation of cultural heritage in crisis regions.
• In education section only concrete structure course are taught in detail. Structure of heritage
building should also be added in the course.
• The locals and committee members should be provided with trainings and participate in such
heritage protection programs.
Conclusion
Disaster risk management is the application of disaster risk reduction policies and strategies to prevent
new disaster risk, reduce existing disaster risk and manage residual risk, contributing to the
strengthening of resilience and reduction of disaster losses. This is the discipline of dealing with and
avoiding risks. It involves preparing for the disaster before it occurs, disaster response as well as
supporting and rebuilding society after disaster has occurred.
In this report we have explained a disaster scenario for Kathmandu Durbar Square and the possible
effects of earthquake there. During the entire process we learnt to identify and map local capabilities
to cope with the hazards and conduct effective disaster response while reducing risks and
vulnerabilities. The risk of disaster can happen at any time so, early preparedness and the possible
mitigation measures must be clear-cut to ensure human and heritage safety.
References
Government of Nepal. (2019). Kathmandu Valley World Heritage Site. Kathmandu.
National Research Institute for Cultural Properties. (2016). Project for Investigation of Damage
Situation of Cultural Heritage in Nepal.
The Atlantic. (2015, July). Nepal, Three Months After the Earthquakes. Retrieved from
https://www.theatlantic.com/photo/2015/07/nepal-three-months-after-the-
earthquakes/399773/
Tibet Discovery. (2020). Kathmandu Durbar Square - Former Royal Palace of Nepal. Retrieved from
Tibet Discovery: https://www.tibetdiscovery.com/what-to-see/kathmandu-durbar-square/
Xinhua net. (2019). Xinhua Headlines: Chinese restoration specialists help Nepal recover soul of
Kathmandu Valley culture. Retrieved from Xinhuanet:
http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2019-10/11/c_138464248.htm
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jeCKgnIqLTA
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qI6tdN40Id0

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QVRMQTbZd-c
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lJ3IIas0zGU
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N8xmVisM_O4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T8_E8bIFI14&t=49s
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1mscwwZR-Jo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ijACXA4Nu8
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AxgftdFcAaE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q9R5Xm0ud5g
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4GnkA-6ccLk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SYGPMhgCFqc