A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science, School of Environment, Resources and Development

With a history of 2000 years, city of Patan is considered the most ancient town of the three important towns of the Kathmandu Valley. Being nominated as "World Heritage Site" confirms that Patan Historic City is recognized for its 'outstanding universal significance'. This nation's cultural heritage is cherished not only by its people but also by the whole world, which deserves conservation as the mankind's common heritage. Efforts of conservation have been initiated from the past, yet this living ancient city is now facing problems of retaining and enhancing the historic physical environment from the pressure of modem development. Since last two decades the valley has experienced economic growth but at the same time the damage of the distinctive character of urban form of the historic cities. High rise strnctures are taking place deteriorating and reducing the quality of the historic environment. There is an urgent need to address this issue and formulate appropriate and realistic strategies, which could be implemented to safeguard the unique character of the city without hindering its development. Given the existing situation, this research study is an attempt to find out applicable solutions to the problems. With strategic planning approaches, solutions for conservation of buildings in private ownership in the Protected Monument Zone of the Patan Historic Core are identified. Thus, the formulation of a strategic plan framework for conservation of its historic resources can be a component for tourism and economic potential, which can be an asset to modem development. The strategic plan framework's main goal is to guide in decision making to plan and manage effectively for the future in redesigning and reshaping the existing historic fabric. This is done with the assessment of strengths, weaknesses of community and opportunities and threats from the external environment, along with the opinion survey of the key stakeholders. Based on this approach, alternative strategies and options for safeguarding the historic fabric of the city are identified to maintain the rhythm of the streetscapes that carefully mix historic areas with new developments.

Thesis (M.Sc.) - Asian Institute of Technology 2000