KVPT

Itumbaha, one of the five principal monasteries of Kathmandu, is regarded for its ritual importance in Newar Buddhism, its wealth of early woodcarvings, and its architectural integrity dating to the 13th century. Itumbaha preserves its two-story configuratio, roof form, and numerous carved windows, pillars, and struts. The courtyard contains additional votive structures, some of great artistic importance such as the 17th century caturmukhi caitya (“four faced stupa”). In 2001 the World Monument Watch included the Buddhist monastic complex of Itumbaha in its list of the 100 most endangered sites in the world. The monastery is located in the heart of Kathmandu in a rapidly developing area north of Darbar Square. Between 2002-2005, KVPT restored the south and west wings of Itumbaha as part of its Buddhist Kathmandu Campaign. From 2005-2006, Itumbaha’s private religious trust (guthi) restored the north wing. From 2013-2015  KVPT restored the remaining east wing. This restoration effort included the reconstruction of all dilapidated masonry walls, the rebuilding of the roof using traditional tiles, and the conservation of carved timber elements. In addition, KVPT employed seismic strengthening methods to ensure that the structure is safeguarded in the event of an earthquake.