Overview:

Ladakh, situated in the Trans-Himalayan region, experiences harsh cold winters, making living conditions extremely challenging for its inhabitants. Passive Solar Heated Buildings (PSHBs) offer an eco-friendly solution given the region's 300 days of sunshine. Although the concept and technology were introduced in the early 1980s, their adoption was limited. However, the reintroduction of PSHBs with integrated traditional, postmodern, and innovative technologies presents a promising approach to regenerative, restorative, and responsive design and construction. This study aimed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness and performance of PSHBs compared to traditional non-PSH buildings in Leh. Additionally, thermal comfort surveys were conducted, and building simulation models of Himalayan Institute of Alternatives Ladakh (HIAL) PSHBs were analyzed. The results encompassed payback periods, temperature data, building material thermal properties, and qualitative and quantitative studies of PSH buildings. The ultimate goal is to promote the mainstreaming of PSH housing in Ladakh through climate identification of the region, policy recommendations, and the integration and promotion of PSHs through inclusion of constructional features and material in ECBC codes and building by laws of Ladakh. By addressing these aspects, Ladakh can harness the potential of PSHBs to create more resilient living environments.