S & T Interventions in the Traditional Architecture of Rural Areas of Himachal Pradesh

The ancient constructions in Himalayan regions are the finest examples of the traditional architecture, providing sufficient thermal comfort under extreme geo-climatic conditions of the region. These indigenous construction practices include the use of locally available materials such as wood, stone etc. One such native construction techniques, that has been practiced in the state of Himachal Pradesh is known as ‘Kath-Khuni’ and its architecture is created with a mesh of interlocking horizontal sleepers and is dressed or raw stones are packed without any mortar. The designs of these houses are best suited for the harsh environmental climatic conditions of the region. The present state of knowledge reveals that usage and construction of such houses are not in practice due to non-availability of timber and modern architecture. However, such kind of houses can be strengthened and preserved by deploying affordable S&T inputs. For these reasons, about 120 traditional architectural styles of rural houses in Himachal Pradesh have been studied and documented. Subsequently, S&T interventions have been suggested to strengthen and maintain the traditional architecture of rural houses based on the gaps identified.