Exploration of Indigenous Knowledge of Vernacular Architecture in the Development of the Lepchas in Sikkim

Abstract

The quest for a deeper understanding of Indigenous Knowledge focusing on Vernacular Architecture sometimes conceals the achievement of the past. Indigenous Knowledge by definition is evolutionary and is the knowledge shared by the locals or the indigenous people. Vernacular Architecture on the other hand is the shared knowledge of the locals in constructing any forms of architectural designs, products and buildings using local resources. Such Indigenous Knowledge of Vernacular Architecture is shared among the Lepchas in Sikkim. The Lepchas, who are known to be born naturalists are skilled architects and known for attributing local resources to sustain their life. The result of the study of the Lepchas on Vernacular architecture becomes a valuable model of inspiration in present and as a whole contributes to the development of the Lepchas in Sikkim. The experience with the vernacular architecture of the Lepchas creates an efficient local design with a model to generate an architecture closer to nature. This paper explores the indigenous knowledge of vernacular architecture as it nourishes their culture and tradition. It also describes the Indigenous Knowledge of the Lepchas focusing on Vernacular Architecture with particular reference to the Housing Pattern of the Lepchas as an age-old tradition which contributes to learning the heritage of the Lepchas in Sikkim.