Author (s)
- Nimesh Chettri
- Jigme Thinley
- Ghana Shyam Koirala
1 , 2 College of Science and Technology, Rinchending, Phuntsholing, Bhutan.
3Gelephu Thromdae / City Corporation
3Gelephu Thromdae / City Corporation
Keywords
vernacular structure, rammed earth, wattle and daub, adobe block, jamthog, dzongkhag
Paper Details
- Paper ID: UIJRTV1I20006
- Published in: Volume : 01 Issue : 02
- Publication Date: 21/09/2019
- Page(s): 42-47
Abstract
Bhutan is a
small developing nation sandwiched between China to the north and India
in the south. Traditional construction techniques range from rammed
earth to bulky stone masonry which is in some degree similar to the
neighbouring countries such as Tibet, Nepal and northern India. However,
Bhutanese vernacular structures are unique and it significantly
contributes to the already rich cultural heritage. Epitome of
traditional construction in Bhutan can be dated back to the 17th century
during which many of the dzongs (Bhutanese administrative buildings)
and Lhakhang (temples) were constructed. The traditional construction
typology of Bhutan can be classified under rammed earth, stone rubble
masonry, adobe block, ekra (wattle and daub), timber houses and bamboo
houses. Many of these structures were constructed without pre-prepared
drawings. The construction would proceed on site under the vision of a
head carpenter/mason. The paper presents the different types of
un-engineered houses/dwellings in Bhutan, its construction methods and
their structural integrity and configuration.