Kinnaur architecture :

The typical Pahari style of

temple architecture shows a significant variation
in Kinnaur with a fusion of the pent roof and the
pagoda roof.
The Bhimkali temple at Sarahan is perhaps the
most spectacular example of this fusion. The
entire upper section of the temple has exquisitely
carved cedar wood panelling.

Wood features quite frequently in structures, use

of stones could also be seen.
In Kinnaur, there are pagoda-style monasteries or
temples or shrines.
Forts of royalty display wood carving
Also folk of Himalayas have a fascination for
ornamentation so doors, jambs and lintels are carved.
Most of the traditional houses have long wooden logs
and stone masonry held without mortar.
The technique was devised keeping the seismic activity, topography, environment,
climate, native materials and cultural landscape in perspective.
This unique construction technique has led to the formation of a vernacular
architectural prototype known as Kath-Kuni (cator and cribbage) architecture.
Materials

Applications
Kath-Kuni Architecture has widely been employed in the construction of residences.
 Here the farmers would rear their cattle in the lowermost floor such that the
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heat generated would heat the upper layers of the house. The next level of the
dwelling unit is used as a granary, where food is stocked for the winters. The last
few floors are designed as residential spaces which are cantilevered from the
main walls of the house to capture sunlight, during the day.
Hip roofs are usually employed
but there are instances where
gable with dormer windows are adopted.
Good examples of Kath-Kuni Architecture could be seen in existing temples, where
the craftmanship exhibited in the form of ornamentation and detailing in design,  can
[5]

be seen on the wooden members of walls, flooring, windows, doors and roofs.

Advantages
 Sustainable
 Materials locally available
 Suitable for seismic zones
 Insulates during extreme weather conditions
 Energy efficient
 Helps sustain the livelihood of people who are mostly farmers or craftsmen
 Employs local crafts and keeps the tradition alive


Himachal Pradesh, Temples
Employs unskilled labour