Bahal, Nepal Explained

Baha (Nepal Bhasa:बहाः) is a type of courtyard found amongst Newar communities in Nepal. It is the most dominant type of courtyard in Newari Architecture. Baha is a term for Buddhist Monastery and derives its name from a Sanskrit word Bihara, meaning joy or enchantment and thus is aplace of religious bliss.^[1]

Characteristics

The characteristics of a Baha are:-

• A square or rectangular space bounded by buildings in all sides
• Surrounding buildings built on a raised platform called Falcha
• Ground paved with brick or stone
• Generally centrally placed Chaitya
• Often presence of a well
• The building opposite to the main entrance generally houses a Guthi with idols of deities in the ground floor

Significance

The baha are generally constructed by a family and their descendants reside in it for generations. Hence, it is not just a unit of residence but also a unit of kinship. The Guthis of Newars have their basis on Baha. So, they play a great role in maintaining the norms of Newari society and lifestyle.

Some Baha

• Bhagwan Baha Thabahi (Thamel Tole)
• Makhan baha
• Sabal Baha
• Tacchya Baha
• Te Bahal
• Mu Baha
• Musya Baha
• Nagbahal
• Kwa Baha
• Itum bahal
• Jana bahal (Machhendra baha)
• Om Baha
• Iku Baha
• Kunsha Baha (Kohsha Baha)
• Tukabaha
• Okubaha
• Na Baha

See also

• Buddhism in Nepal
• Kindo Baha
• List of Mahaviharas of Newar Buddhism
• List of monasteries in Nepal
• List of stupas in Nepal
• Newar Buddhism
• Newari Architecture
• Pranidhipurna Mahavihar

Notes and References

1. Bahals of The Kathmandu Valley - Sudarsan Raj Tiwari