Settlement Tour to Naggar, Himachal Pradesh
23rd May 2022, Tuesday to 31st May 2022, Tuesday
Around 54 students from first year documented a settlement from Rumsu village in Naggar district, Manali, Himachal Pradesh. Rumsu, a small hamlet in the Himalayas is well known for its indigenous ‘Kathkuni’ Architecture. The pattern of settlement is mostly driven by terrain, and the form of structure by local materials, stone and wood. Climate responsiveness and sustainability are the two main characteristics of Kathkunis in this region. The hamlet is characterized by its identity, shared history and spaces with a strong belief that architecture must be understood as an embodiment of human beliefs. Students prepared measured drawings of identified residences, temples, streets and analyzed the same under various parameters such as morphology, built-unbuilt spaces, architectural character, activity mapping, culture, materials and technology etc. Students also got an opportunity to visit the studio of local architect, Ar. Rahul Bhushan who gave valuable insights on sustainable aspects of local architecture in Himachal Pradesh.
Settlement Tour to Udwada, Gujarat
13th May 2022 to 16th May 2022
This year, the second-year architecture settlement study tour was taken to Udwada, Gujarat. Students documented the settlement of Udwada, by understanding the local construction techniques and materials. Students were divided into groups and were asked to measure the houses and clusters along with public spaces like streets, chowks, Fire temple and Facilitation center. Students also got a chance to visit and document Sir Ratan Tata building (now converted into a dispensary). Students got to learn about the history and socio- cultural life of this coastal town and its reflection in the overall architectural planning along with the impact of local climatic conditions. Students were able to interact with the locals, understand their routine, the overall lifestyle and their needs. They were really fortunate to document a few of the old structures with a blend of Persian and Indian style which stood the testimony of time.