Site Context:

 Location: Sankhamul, Lalitpur, Nepal, adjacent to the Bagmati River.

 Existing land use: Previously agricultural land.
 Size and Topography: Approximately 1.5 hectares, with moderate slopes
and a natural drainage system.
 Pre-existing Features: Agricultural land and scattered trees.
 Surrounding context: Residential neighborhoods, educational institutions,
commercial establishments.
 Accessibility: Located near major thoroughfares, with pedestrian pathways
and bicycle lanes.

A comprehensive site analysis revealed the challenges and opportunities

inherent in the land. The proximity to the river presented both flood risks
and potential for scenic beauty. Existing vegetation offered an ecological
foundation, while limited space demanded creative utilization. Through
careful planning, these elements were woven together to create a harmonious
and functional landscape.

Background:
Shankhamul Park is located in the Shankhamul neighborhood of Lalitpur, Nepal.
The neighborhood is home to a diverse mix of people, including residents,
students, and tourists. The Park is a popular destination for people of all ages and
backgrounds.
The Park was built by the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) in 2014. The
NRNA is a non-profit organization that works to connect Nepali people living
abroad with their homeland. The Park was built to provide a space for people to
relax, play, and connect with nature.

The Park is designed to be accessible to everyone. The pathways are wheelchair

accessible, and there are restrooms and drinking fountains throughout the park. The
Park is also well-lit, making it safe for people to visit at night.
History:

The history of Shankhamul Park can be traced back to the 1990s, when the Non-
Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) began to explore the possibility of building a
park in Lalitpur. The NRNA is a non-profit organization that works to connect
Nepali people living abroad with their homeland. The organization wanted to
create a space for Nepalis from all over the world to come together and connect
with their culture.

In 2000, the NRNA purchased a 1.5-hectare plot of land in the Shankhamul

neighborhood of Lalitpur. The land was previously used for agricultural purposes,
and it was located near the Bagmati River. The NRNA began to raise funds for the
construction of the park, and they eventually received contributions from Nepali
people all over the world.

The construction of Shankhamul Park began in 2012 and was completed in 2014.
The Park was designed by a team of Nepali architects and landscape architects.
The design of the park was inspired by the natural beauty of Nepal, and it features
a variety of plants and trees native to the country.

Shankhamul Park was officially inaugurated in 2014. The inauguration ceremony

was attended by a large crowd of people, including Nepali Prime Minister Sushil
Koirala. The Park was immediately welcomed by the community, and it quickly
became a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.

Planning:

 Vision: To create a green oasis for recreation, community engagement, and

environmental preservation.
 Master plan: Organized around a central lawn with radiating pathways,
incorporating open spaces, gardens, water features, and recreational areas.
 Sustainability: Emphasis on native plant species, water conservation
measures, and permeable surfaces.
 Phasing: The development was executed in phases, allowing for flexibility
and adjustments based on community input.
Vegetation:

Sankha Park boasts a diverse and vibrant tapestry of vegetation that contributes
significantly to its character and functionality. The plant selections are not mere
aesthetic choices; they are carefully chosen to enhance the park's ecological
sustainability, recreational value, and visual appeal.

Native and Low-Maintenance Plants:

 Trees: Mature trees like rhododendrons, pines, and flowering jacarandas

provide shade, attract wildlife, and offer seasonal beauty. Smaller trees like
crepe myrtles and bauhinia add color and visual interest.
 Shrubs: Colorful bougainvillea, fragrant jasmine, and native climbing vines
adorn trellises and create vibrant borders. Butterfly bushes attract pollinators
and add pops of color.
 Grasses and Groundcovers: Lush green lawns provide open spaces for
play and relaxation. Low-maintenance groundcovers like thyme and verbena
minimize water needs and suppress weeds.
 Flowerbeds: Seasonal displays of vibrant flowers like
marigolds, cosmos, and roses add bursts of color throughout the year.

Functional Considerations:

 Plant placement: Strategically placed trees provide shade for walkways and
seating areas, while open spaces allow sunlight to reach lawns and gardens.
 Pollinator attraction: Flowering plants native to Nepal attract
bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, promoting ecological balance.
 Sensory experiences: Fragrant shrubs like jasmine and lavender enhance
the visitor experience with pleasant scents.

Materials:

The materials used in Sankha Park's construction are thoughtfully chosen for their
functionality, durability, and visual harmony with the natural surroundings.
Hardscape Elements:

 Pathways: Winding pathways are primarily built with natural stone or

brick, blending seamlessly with the greenery. Some sections utilize concrete
for accessibility and ease of maintenance.
 Seating areas: Benches and gazebos are constructed from a mix of
wood, stone, and metal, offering a variety of options for visitors to relax and
enjoy the views.
 Plaza and Focal Point: The central plaza utilizes granite or polished
concrete for a clean and modern aesthetic, complementing the striking conch
shell statue.

Sustainability Considerations:

 Permeable surfaces: Gravel pathways and strategically placed green spaces

allow rainwater to infiltrate the soil, reducing runoff and promoting
groundwater recharge.
 Locally sourced materials: Using locally sourced stone, wood, and other
materials minimize transportation costs and supports the local economy.
 Recycled materials: Some benches or decorative elements may incorporate
recycled materials like plastic or glass, promoting environmental
responsibility.

The vegetation and materials employed in Sankha Park's landscape architecture are
integral to its success. The careful selection of plants complements the park's
functions, enhances its visual appeal, and fosters ecological sustainability. The
thoughtful use of hardscape materials creates durable and aesthetically pleasing
elements that blend seamlessly with the natural environment. Together, these
elements contribute to Sankha Park's enduring position as a beloved green oasis in
the heart of Lalitpur.

Softscape: The Living Canvas:

Vibrant Tapestry of Vegetation: Sankha Park boasts a diverse tapestry of

trees, shrubs, flowers, and groundcovers. Native and low-maintenance plants
dominate, fostering a connection with the local environment while reducing
water needs. Mature trees provide shade and attract wildlife, while colorful
flowers add seasonal bursts of beauty.

Functional Plantings: Strategic placement of vegetation serves specific

purposes. Shrubs and trees border pathways, offering privacy and filtering
sunlight. Lawns offer open spaces for play and relaxation, while fragrant
gardens create pockets of tranquility.

Sensory Experiences: Softscape elements engage visitors on multiple

levels. Fragrant jasmine and lavender delight the olfactory senses, while
vibrant flowers and lush greenery provide visual feasts. The rustling of
leaves in the breeze creates a calming soundscape, enhancing the visitor
experience.

Harmony and Balance:

Sankha Park's success lies in the seamless integration of softscape and

hardscape. The lush greenery softens the built elements, while the pathways
and structures provide order and definition to the natural spaces. This
balance creates a visually appealing and functional environment that caters
to diverse needs and preferences.

Ecological Benefits:

The interplay of softscape and hardscape fosters an ecologically sound

environment. Native vegetation attracts pollinators and supports local
biodiversity. Permeable surfaces reduce urban heat island effects and
promote water conservation. The Park serves as a haven for both humans
and wildlife, contributing to the overall health and well-being of the Lalitpur
community.

Sankha Park's landscape architecture stands as a testament to the power of

harmonious design. By expertly blending softscape and hardscape elements,
the park offers a beautiful, functional, and ecologically sustainable space for
recreation, relaxation, and connection with nature. This balance serves as a
model for future urban landscape design, showcasing the potential for
creating green spaces that enhance both the environment and the quality of
life for residents.
Principal Design:

 Entrance and focal point: Striking sculpture of a conch shell (Sankha)

marking the entrance and establishing a unique identity.
 Pathways and open spaces: A network of paved and natural pathways
catering to different modes of movement, interspersed with open spaces for
gatherings and picnics.
 Gardens and vegetation: Diverse plant life including flowerbeds,
manicured lawns, mature trees, and native species, attracting pollinators and
creating a vibrant visual tapestry.
 Seating areas and amenities: Benches, gazebos, and pavilions providing
resting spots and gathering spaces. Public restrooms and drinking fountains
for visitor comfort.
 Connection to the Bagmati River: Riverbank path offering scenic views
and promoting ecological connections. Natural vegetation stabilizing the
riverbank and protecting against erosion.

Design Principles:

 Human-centric design: Prioritizing visitor comfort, accessibility, and

safety.
 Environmental sustainability: Promoting ecological balance through water
conservation, native plant selection, and permeable surfaces.
 Aesthetic beauty: Creating a visually appealing and engaging space through
thoughtful landscaping and artistic elements.
 Multi-functionality: Accommodating diverse user needs and activities
through flexible and adaptable design.
 Community engagement: Incorporating features that encourage social
interaction and foster a sense of ownership among residents.
Functionality:

 Recreation and Leisure: Sankha Park caters to a variety of recreational

activities. Morning walkers and joggers enjoy the fresh air, while family’s
picnic on the grass. Children play in the open spaces, and friends gather for
conversations under the trees.
 Community Hub: The Park serves as a vital community hub, fostering
social interaction and a sense of belonging among residents of different ages
and backgrounds. It provides a space for people to connect with nature and
each other, promoting well-being and social cohesion.
 Environmental Benefits: The park's green spaces contribute to improving
air quality and reducing the urban heat island effect. The vegetation also
helps control soil erosion and provides habitat for birds and other wildlife.

Sustainability Considerations:
 Native and low-maintenance plants minimize water usage.
 Rainwater harvesting and natural drainage systems conserve water
resources.
 Compost bins and waste management practices promote
environmental responsibility.