Bahal, Nepal

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 a Sanskrit word Bihara, meaning joy or enchantment and thus is a place of religious bliss.

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 Baha 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