July 27, 2025

Amid the ancient temples and bustling bahals of Patan lies an engineering marvel often overlooked by casual visitors: its vast network of hiti, or stone water spouts. More than just practical infrastructure, these intricately carved fountains represent centuries of innovation, artistry, and reverence for water in Newar culture. Many of these hitis still function today, continuing to serve the community in both spiritual and practical ways.

Tusha Hiti, located in Sundari Chowk, is perhaps the most ornate example of a hiti in the Kathmandu Valley. Built for ritual use by Malla kings, its stone basin and serpent-headed spouts are set within a sunken courtyard adorned with tantric and mythological carvings.

Sauga Hiti, near Patan Durbar Square, is one of the city’s most accessible and photogenic hitis. Its stepped entrance and sculpted guardians create an atmosphere of reverence, even though it remains a part of everyday life for locals who fetch water or offer prayers.

Nagbahal Hiti, tucked near the monastic courtyard of Nagbahal, remains functional and continues to be a sacred source of water for ritual use. This hiti reflects the strong connection between water and Buddhist spiritual practice, quietly serving the community for generations.

Alko Hiti, a short walk from Pulchowk, is a lesser-known gem, recently restored with community involvement. Though hidden down a narrow alley, its restored chaitya and spout have made it a symbol of heritage conservation in Patan.

Bhandarkhal Hiti, situated within the Patan Museum Garden, offers another glimpse into the ritual significance of water for the palace. Once reserved for the royal family, it adds another layer to the understanding of how water architecture was embedded into ceremonial life.

While many hitis have suffered from urban neglect or seasonal drought, conservation efforts are slowly reviving these remarkable sites. Visiting the hitis of Patan isn’t just about appreciating ancient architecture—it’s about witnessing a living system of sacred water management, where nature, engineering, and faith intersect in beautifully carved stone.