Chiva Chaitya - Respect, Promote, Protect

Exploring the Living Heritage of Hitis As part of the Heritage Research Program for Students , Chiva Chaitya Organization (CCO) recently organized a unique learning experience centered on Kathmandu Valley’s historic hiti (stone water spout) system. Following the orientation session, students set out to explore various hiti sites, equipped with knowledge about their history, architecture, and cultural significance. This initiative aimed to inspire young minds to connect with heritage not just as observers, but as active researchers and future custodians. Hands-On Learning in the Field Over several days, students visited a range of hiti sites across the city, from the centuries-old spouts still flowing with water to neglected structures awaiting restoration. They documented each site through photographs, sketches, and interviews with local residents. Their observations covered aspects such as construction materials, traditional water management techniques, and the community’s relation...

  Lagan Baha-Kirti Punya MahaVihar in Kathmandu -21 is one if the most beautiful Vihar courtyards in the valley. The premises holds many beautiful and of different types of Chivas. Some of the Chivas were without the Gaju, the finial, important component of a Chiva. A Gaju, although small in size holds many detailed parts namely Harmika, Torana, Triyodasha Bhuvana, Chhatra and Ushnisha. Thus a Gaju is important and integral part of a Chiva and without a Gaju a Chiva is not complete. Chiva Chaitya Organization is proud to be able to complete the Chivas and this is part of our continued effort to highlight the importance of these heritage monuments. Total Gaju restored till now since counting including this (to reach 100): 43 Gaju installation includes: 12(Shreegha), BhindyoTwa-1, LakhaTirtha-2,Chaga-1, Jhochhen-1, Chikamuga_1-1, Makhan-1, Chikamuga_2-1, KangaAjima-6, ChivaKhyo-2, LukuPhalcha-1, MaruDhwakha-1, Basantapur-1, Bijeswori-1, Bijeswori to Swoyambhu Way-1, ShovaBhagawati Wa...

  One of two Chivas that got restored Chiva Before Restoration Second Chiva that got restored Chiva before restoration: a makeshift cement cone was put instead of a Gaju. A Gaju consists of beautiful carving consisting of Harmika, Triyodasha Bhuvan, Toran, Chhatra and Ushnisa. Total Gaju restored till now since counting including this (to reach 100): 40 Gaju installation includes: 12(Shreegha), BhindyoTwa-1, LakhaTirtha-2,Chaga-1, Jhochhen-1, Chikamuga_1-1, Makhan-1, Chikamuga_2-1, KangaAjima-6, ChivaKhyo-2, LukuPhalcha-1, MaruDhwakha-1, Basantapur-1, Bijeswori-1, Bijeswori to Swoyambhu Way-1, ShovaBhagawati Way-1, ShobhaBhagavati Way- Near KarnaDip Gate-1,   Samimuga Galli -1, Tenga-1, Ason-1, Lagan Tadhan Baha-2 (this) Completed date: 20250523

  Total Gaju restored till now since counting including this (to reach 100): 38 Gaju installation includes: 12(Shreegha), BhindyoTwa-1, LakhaTirtha-2,Chaga-1, Jhochhen-1, Chikamuga_1-1, Makhan-1, Chikamuga_2-1, KangaAjima-6, ChivaKhyo-2, LukuPhalcha-1, MaruDhwakha-1, Basantapur-1, Bijeswori-1, Bijeswori to Swoyambhu Way-1, ShovaBhagawati Way-1, ShobhaBhagavati Way- Near KarnaDip Gate-1,   Samimuga Galli -1, Tenga-1, Ason-1(this) Completed date: 20250523

Chiva Chaitya Organization (CCO) has proudly launched this year’s Heritage Research Program for Students , continuing our commitment to educating and empowering the next generation of heritage stewards. On May 3, 2025 , an Orientation Program was organized where about 130 students from 14 schools gathered to embark on this exciting journey of learning and exploration. The orientation session was enriched by a presentation from heritage enthusiast and architect Alina Tamrakar , who provided students with valuable insights into the Hiti system — Kathmandu Valley’s ancient water management network. Students learned not just about the visible structures of the Hitis, but also about the complex internal engineering that has made these traditional systems function for centuries. Following the orientation, students have formed teams and will be assigned different Hitis across the city to conduct research and gather data. Their findings will be compiled into reports, which will later be s...

Chiva Chaitya Organization (CCO) has been doing restoration work has officially begun at Yenga Hiti as part of our ongoing Hiti Heritage Conservation Project . Yenga Hiti, an important historic water spout in Kathmandu, has long served as a crucial source of water and a testament to the Valley’s ancient water management expertise. Through this restoration, CCO aims to revive not just the physical structure but also the deep cultural and environmental significance of the Hiti system. We were honored to welcome Nicole Chulick, Deputy Assistant Secretary, US State Department along with officials from the U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu, Mike and Erica , to the Yenga Hiti restoration site. In keeping with Newar traditions, our distinguished guests were offered Sagun — a ceremonial offering of auspicious foods symbolizing welcome, respect, and goodwill. The Sagun ceremony reflects the deep-rooted cultural practices of Kathmandu Valley, where hospitality and spiritual blessings go hand in ha...

As part of the broader program detailed here , Chiva Chaitya Organization (CCO) recently organized a special Hiti Heritage Tour in Kathmandu. This initiative aimed to deepen understanding and appreciation of the ancient water management systems — the Hitis — that have sustained Kathmandu Valley for centuries. Guided by Alina Tamrakar, a passionate heritage enthusiast and a Masters graduate in architecture, the tour took participants to several important Hiti sites across the city. Artists, members of Rotary Club, CCO volunteers, and members of the public joined the walk, discovering not only the beautifully crafted visible structures but also learning about the intricate internal systems that make the traditional water spouts function — a knowledge often hidden from everyday view. Through this journey, participants gained valuable insight into the ingenuity and sophistication of the historic Hiti system, and the urgent need to preserve this vital part of Kathmandu’s living heritag...

Chiva Chaitya Organization (CCO) is pleased to share that a damaged and incomplete Chiva at the heart of Ason has been carefully maintained and restored. When we first encountered this sacred site, it was missing its Gaju (pinnacle) and the main deity figures that embody its spiritual significance. Thanks to dedicated efforts, the Chiva now stands again as a proud symbol of our living heritage, enriching the cultural atmosphere of Ason, one of Kathmandu’s oldest and busiest squares. Heritage like the Chiva of Ason is not just stone and sculpture; it carries the spirit of generations. Each restored Chiva helps preserve the deep religious, artistic, and community values of our ancestors, ensuring that the heart of Kathmandu continues to beat vibrantly for future generations. Your support plays a vital role in this mission. 🙏 We invite you to support CCO’s future preservation works. Bank Details: Account Name: Chiva Chaitya Account Number: 2222 1400 0469 9643 Bank: Kumari Bank ...

CCO, Rotary Club Yela and eArts Nepal Join Hands to Promote Hiti Heritage Through Art and Community Engagement April 5, 2025 | Kathmandu In a significant step towards preserving and promoting the traditional water heritage of the Kathmandu Valley, Chiva Chaitya Organization (CCO) , Rotary Club   Yela and eArts Nepal have entered into a collaborative partnership to launch a creative and community-focused initiative centered on the historic Hiti (stone spout) systems. The tri-party agreement was signed on April 4, 2025 , marking the beginning of a series of programs aimed at raising awareness, engaging the younger generation, and highlighting the importance of Hitis through art and education. As part of the program, participating artists and youth will explore and depict Hitis through drawing and painting , capturing both their architectural beauty and cultural significance. These creative works will later be showcased in a public art exhibition , offering a fresh perspective on...

Project Site Visit at Yenga Hiti by WMF and AFCP Representatives April 4, 2025 | Kathmandu On April 3, 2025 , the Yenga Hiti site —one of the key restoration locations under Chiva Chaitya Organization’s ongoing two-year water heritage conservation program—was visited by representatives from the World Monuments Fund (WMF) and the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) . The visiting delegation included Hunghsi Chao from WMF, and Mike , Erica , and Dhruba representing AFCP/US Embassy Kathmandu. During the site visit, the team observed the ongoing restoration and rehabilitation work at Yenga Hiti and interacted with local stakeholders and project team members. They expressed appreciation for the community engagement, technical quality , and the progress made so far under the project. The site exemplifies the collaborative spirit of the initiative, which integrates traditional water systems with modern conservation approaches. The visit served as a moment of encoura...

Without a Gaju, a Chiva is not complete. It represents the spiritual pinnacle, guiding devotees toward the ultimate goal of liberation. A Chiva at Tenga, ward 18 was without Gaju. Chiva Chaitya Organization is happy to be able to install the Gaju. A group photo after Gaju installation We would like to thank ward official, community members for their support. Our special gratitude to Hanumandhoka Durbar Kshhetra Karyakram, Kathmandu Municipality for supporting our initiative in heritage preservation. Total Gaju restored till now since counting including this (to reach 100): 37 Gaju installation includes: 12(Shreegha), BhindyoTwa-1, LakhaTirtha-2,Chaga-1, Jhochhen-1, Chikamuga_1-1, Makhan-1, Chikamuga_2-1, KangaAjima-6, ChivaKhyo-2, LukuPhalcha-1, MaruDhwakha-1, Basantapur-1, Bijeswori-1, Bijeswori to Swoyambhu Way-1, ShovaBhagawati Way-1, ShobhaBhagavati Way- Near KarnaDip Gate-1,   Samimuga Galli -1, Tenga-1(this) Completed date: 20241201

Without a Gaju, a Chiva is not complete. It represents the spiritual pinnacle, guiding devotees toward the ultimate goal of liberation. A Chiva at Samimuga Galli, ward 18 was without Gaju. Chiva Chaitya Organization is happy to be able to install the Gaju. We would like to thank ward official, community members for their support. Our special gratitude to Hanumandhoka Durbar Kshhetra Karyakram, Kathmandu Municipality for supporting our initiative in heritage preservation. Total Gaju restored till now since counting including this (to reach 100): 36 Gaju installation includes: 12(Shreegha), BhindyoTwa-1, LakhaTirtha-2,Chaga-1, Jhochhen-1, Chikamuga_1-1, Makhan-1, Chikamuga_2-1, KangaAjima-6, ChivaKhyo-2, LukuPhalcha-1, MaruDhwakha-1, Basantapur-1, Bijeswori-1, Bijeswori to Swoyambhu Way-1, ShovaBhagawati Way-1, ShobhaBhagavati Way- Near KarnaDip Gate-1,   Samimuga Galli -1 (this) Completed date: 20241201

Without a Gaju, a Chiva is not complete. Its intricate design reflects the artistic mastery of the Newar community, blending beauty with spirituality. A Chiva at ShobhaBhagavati Way, near KarnaDip gate, ward 15 was without Gaju. Chiva Chaitya Organization is happy to be able to install the Gaju. After Gaju Installation Chiva becomes complete We would like to thank ward official, community members for their support. Our special gratitude to Hanumandhoka Durbar Kshhetra Karyakram, Kathmandu Municipality for supporting our initiative in heritage preservation. Total Gaju restored till now since counting including this (to reach 100): 35 Gaju installation includes: 12(Shreegha), BhindyoTwa-1, LakhaTirtha-2,Chaga-1, Jhochhen-1, Chikamuga_1-1, Makhan-1, Chikamuga_2-1, KangaAjima-6, ChivaKhyo-2, LukuPhalcha-1, MaruDhwakha-1, Basantapur-1, Bijeswori-1, Bijeswori to Swoyambhu Way-1, ShovaBhagawati Way-1, ShobhaBhagavati Way- Near KarnaDip Gate-1 (this) Completed date: 20241201

Chiva Chaitya Organization continues to explore the possibility of usage of technologies in heritage preservation. Here we can see a team from CCO looking inside a Hiti for blockages. New tools like GPR and endoscopy will be added to the arsenal for heritage preservation. These are non-invasive tools, which CCO hopes will help in long term and sustainable conservation of ancient Hiti System of Kathmandu Valley. The Hiti system, an ancient water management network in Kathmandu Valley, reflects Newar ingenuity, sustaining communities with water and cultural heritage. The preservation of hiti systems, the traditional stone spouts of the Kathmandu Valley, faces significant challenges due to their underground infrastructure. These ancient water systems rely on a network of subterranean canals, reservoirs, and natural springs that are highly vulnerable to urbanization, construction activities, and land use changes. Encroachment and unregulated development often disrupt or block these underg...

Without a Gaju, a Chiva is not complete. The Gaju is the crowning ornament of a Chaitya, symbolizing path to enlightenment and the attainment of nirvana. A Chiva at ShobhaBhagavati Way, ward 15 was without Gaju. Chiva Chaitya Organization is happy to be able to install the Gaju. Chiva without Gaju Installing Gaju Chiva with Gaju We would like to thank ward official, community members for their support. Our special gratitude to Hanumandhoka Durbar Kshhetra Karyakram, Kathmandu Municipality for supporting our initiative in heritage preservation. Total Gaju restored till now since counting including this (to reach 100): 34 Gaju installation includes: 12(Shreegha), BhindyoTwa-1, LakhaTirtha-2,Chaga-1, Jhochhen-1, Chikamuga_1-1, Makhan-1, Chikamuga_2-1, KangaAjima-6, ChivaKhyo-2, LukuPhalcha-1, MaruDhwakha-1, Basantapur-1, Bijeswori-1, Bijeswori to Swoyambhu Way-1, ShovaBhagawati Way-1 (this) Completed date: 20241201