KVPT

Sundari Chowk was constructed as a two-storied courtyard building in 1628 by King Siddhinarasimha Malla. It has since undergone a series of interventions, retaining stylistic features from various time periods. In the 1730s, the building received an additional floor, distinctive triple-bayed windows, and an ambulatory running along the courtyard façade. It is believed that the courtyard wings were meant for formal use: both to hold court and to perform rituals. The building’s intimate scale gives it a completely different atmosphere from typical palace courtyards. Remaining elements from the 17th century combine a profuse iconographical program with deep-relief carvings, in contrast to 18th century additions which feature relatively simple motifs and figural designs. Load bearing masonry walls exhibit high-fired veneer brick (daci-apa) typical of temples and royal buildings. The east elevation, reconstructed after the east wing collapsed in 1934, contrasts starkly with the rest of Sundari Chowk for its lack of ornament and use of ordinary brick. The trace of this post-earthquake reconstruction will be preserved, along with other elements of cultural and religious significance. The damaged roof is being dismantled and rebuilt with traditional tiles. The remaining phases of the restoration include the repair of the triple-bayed ivory window on the west wing, and the restoration of the south and east wings, completed in 2015.