9 Vernacular architecture of Biratnagar

The vernacular architecture of houses in Biratnagar were generally designed to keep

the houses cool in summer as the city has hot climatic feature. Most of the vernacular
architecture consists of the houses build by Tharu people, as they are assumed to be
indigenous group of Terai region. These houses are climate responsive which means
they are always cool in summer and warm in winter.
Materials Used in for Vernacular building construction in Biratnagar:
 Wood
 Mud
 Straw
 Bamboo
 Daub
 Sand
 Gravel
 Other biogenic materials

Figure 30 typical tharu house

Source:
https://www.amazing-world-in-free-stock-pictures-and-photos.com/chitwan-tharu-village.html

9.1 Characteristics of vernacular architecture:

 Types of structure: Adobe / Earthen unreinforced walls, Load bearing timber
frame
 Walls: Mud walls with straw and bamboos, Adobe block walls rammed earth/
PISE construction
 Roofing: Thatched roof / walls with bamboo mesh, post and beam frame

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