Dokchhen Heritage House

✨ Chika Appa: The Timeless Black Plaster of Newar Heritage

A signature element of Newar architecture, Chika Appa (चिका आप्पा) is a traditional black plaster made from black clay, mustard oil, and animal glue. Found on the iconic red-brick walls of Kathmandu Valley, this ancient technique not only enhances the beauty of temples, palaces, and homes but also provides water resistance, durability, and a smooth finish.

🖤 The striking contrast of black Chika Appa and red Dachi Appa bricks is a hallmark of Newar craftsmanship, seen in heritage sites like Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur, and Kathmandu.

🏛️ A tradition passed down for generations, Chika Appa continues to preserve the elegance of Nepal’s architectural identity.

📍 Have you seen these stunning black-plastered walls in Nepal? Share your favorite spot in the comments! 👇🏽

भक्तपुरलाई **श्री यन्त्र** को स्वरूपमा निर्माण गरिएको छ, जहाँका बासिन्दालाई कहिल्यै एक छाक खान समस्या पर्दैन। तर, त्यहाँका देवी-देवताहरूको केवल जात्रा मनाउनु मात्र पर्याप्त छैन; उहाँहरूलाई **जागृत** पनि गर्नुपर्छ। यो विशेष **तान्त्रिक पद्धति** मार्फत मात्र सम्भव छ। यस्ता तान्त्रिकहरू आज पनि हामीबीच छन्, तर उनीहरू यसबारे अन्जान नभए पनि निष्क्रिय भई सामान्य जीवन बिताइरहेका छन्।

अब उहाँहरू पनि **जाग्रत** हुनुपर्छ, र सबै देवी-देवताहरूलाई पुनः **जागृत** गराउन जरुरी छ।

Vastu Shastra and the Foundation of Ancient Bhaktapur (Khwapde)

According to **Vastu Shastra**, there are ten directions: the cardinal directions (east, west, north, and south) and the intercardinal ones. These are:
- **East-South corner** - the **Agneya** (southeast) direction,
- **South-West corner** - the **Nairitya** (southwest) direction,
- **West-North corner** - the **Vayavya** (northwest) direction,
- **North-East corner** - the **Ishan** (northeast) direction,
- **Below** (underground) - **Patala** (netherworld), and
- **Above** (skyward) - **Urdhva** (sky), making up a total of ten directions.

It is likely with this concept in mind that, in the year 1203 B.S., King **Ananda Deva** of the then **Nepal Mandala** established **Khwapde** in a structured manner, as referenced in historical accounts. The kingdom was governed by the **Tripura Yuthunimma** dynasty. It is said that the city of Khwapde, designed in the shape of a **Yantra**, was laid out with eight **Astamatrika** (Eight Mother Goddesses) shrines at each of the eight cardinal directions and a central shrine of **Bhairav** in the middle, creating a well-planned settlement.

The **Tripura Sundari** shrine, situated north-facing near the royal palace of **Tripura Yuthunimma**, was likely established in association with **Tripura Sundari**, a deity that still can be seen today. The glory of **Jagannath Temple** in the **Tula Chen** neighborhood is enhanced by the **Tripura Sundari shrine**, located at the **Ishan** (northeast) corner, along with a **Soka Dyah Chen** shrine.

The central point, **Madhyabindu**, was surrounded by shrines of the Mother Goddesses at the eight directions and **Masan Bhairav** at the periphery. In this geometric design, when viewed only in terms of the square shape, four directions are visible. The additional four are represented by diagonally flipped triangles, and together with the below and above, they make up the ten directions. Thus, it appears that **Khwapde** was designed with the same principles of **Vastu Shastra** that are applied when constructing houses and temples.

The **Tripura Sundari** shrine is protected by the following **Shakti Peeths** in the corresponding directions:
- In the **east**, **Brahmani Peeth**,
- In the **Agneya** (southeast) corner, **Maheshwari Peeth**,
- In the **south**, **Kaumari Peeth**,
- In the **Nairitya** (southwest) corner, **Bhadra Kali Peeth**,
- In the **west**, **Barahi Peeth**,
- In the **Vayavya** (northwest) corner, **Indrani Peeth**,
- In the **north**, **Mahakali Peeth**,
- In the **Ishan** (northeast) corner, **Mahalakshmi Peeth**.

In this way, these **Shakti Peeths** provide protection to **Khwapde**. This information can also be found in **Professor Dr. Purushottam Lochan Shrestha’s** work "The Navadurga of Bhaktapur" on pages 19 and 20.

Father’s Day is more than just a celebration of the man who raised us—it's a moment to honor the profound spiritual connection between father and child. 🌟 This bond is a reflection of divine love and guidance, mirroring the nurturing and protective nature of the universe itself. Fathers play a vital role in shaping our spirits and instilling in us the values, wisdom, and strength that guide us through life. 🙏

As we celebrate Father’s Day, let us also reflect on the spiritual lessons our fathers imparted—the importance of integrity, the strength found in kindness, and the unwavering support that teaches us resilience. Whether our fathers are with us or watching over us from another realm, their presence continues to guide our souls, offering love and light along our journey. ✨

May this day be a reminder of the eternal bond we share with our fathers, rooted in the heart and the spirit.

❤️

✨ Exclusive Sale on Authentic Thanka Art! ✨

Bring home the serenity and spiritual energy of traditional Thanka paintings. Each piece is handcrafted with precision and devotion, perfect for enhancing your space.

🎨 Limited Time Offer: Up to 10% off on all Thanka Art! 📦 DM or contact us at Transcend Art Collective, or contact me directly at +977 9741828673 or Whatsapp +9779741828673.

We invite you to our location, Dokchhen Heritage House , if you would like to view the gallery.

🛒 Shop now and elevate your sacred space.

Discover the magic of Dokchhen Heritage House, where history, culture, and hospitality come together for an unforgettable stay.

यस पवित्र अवसरमा भगवान् श्रीकृष्णले तपाईंको हृदयमा प्रेम, शान्ति र खुसीको ज्योति जगाइदिनुहोस्।

श्रीकृष्ण जन्माष्टमीको शुभकामना!

गाईजात्राको यस पावन अवसरमा, हामी जीवन र मृत्युको अनन्त चक्रलाई सम्झना गर्दै, आफ्ना प्रियजनहरूको स्मृतिलाई सम्मान गर्दछौँ। यस विशेष दिनमा, आफन्तजनहरूसँगको सुन्दर सम्बन्धलाई मनाऔँ र हाम्रो जीवनलाई अझ अर्थपूर्ण बनाउने प्रयास गरौँ।

Nestled in the historic city of Bhaktapur, Dokchhen Heritage House offers a unique blend of traditional architecture and modern amenities, providing an immersive cultural experience for our guests. Built centuries ago and lovingly restored, our heritage house preserves the intricate craftsmanship and rich history of the Bhaktapurians, while offering all the comforts of a modern boutique stay.

At Dokchhen Heritage House, we are committed to honoring our heritage while creating a warm and welcoming environment for travelers. Whether you're exploring ancient temples, strolling through vibrant markets, or simply enjoying the serene atmosphere of our courtyard, every moment here is a journey into Nepal's storied history.

We take pride in offering personalized hospitality, ensuring your stay is comfortable, memorable, and deeply connected to the local community. We are here to share stories, offer recommendations, and guide you through the unique treasures that Bhaktapur has to offer.

Discover the magic of Dokchhen Heritage House, where history, culture, and hospitality come together for an unforgettable stay.