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 the Sanskrit word Bihara, meaning joy or enchantment and thus is a place of religious bliss.Bahals of The Kathmandu Valley - Sudarsan Raj Tiwari
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 Bahal 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
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