A three-day ‘Hiti Art Exhibition’ will be held at the Patan Museum from January 9 to 11, celebrating the cultural, historical and environmental significance of the Kathmandu Valley’s traditional stone spout system, locally known as hiti or dhunge dhara (stone spout system).

Organised by E-Arts Nepal in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Yala and the Chiva Chaitya Organisation, the exhibit brings together contemporary art and heritage conservation to raise public awareness about the vulnerability and restoration of these centuries-old water systems.

Hitis have supplied life-sustaining water to communities in the Kathmandu Valley for centuries. Beyond their functional role, they hold deep cultural, historical and religious value. However, rapid urbanisation, environmental degradation and long-term neglect have led to the disappearance of many hitis, while several others remain at serious risk.

In response, the organisers have launched a heritage conservation initiative focused on awareness-building, the restoration and revitalisation of hitis, and collaboration with local stakeholders. The initiative aims to promote sustainable preservation of traditional water systems for future generations by encouraging community participation and shared responsibility.

The exhibit will feature artworks by 20 contemporary Nepali artists, whose paintings explore the artistic, cultural and historical essence of hitis. Through diverse visual interpretations, the exhibition seeks to highlight the importance of conserving traditional water infrastructure and to stimulate dialogue on cultural heritage protection.

Hiti Art Exhibition

Where: Patan Museum, Lalitpur
When: January 9 to 11
Entry: Free