Question 1

What is शाल की लकड़ी (Sal Wood)?

Accepted Answer

शाल (Śāl), or *Shorea robusta*, is a significant timber in Indic heritage architecture. This hardwood, known as साखू (Sākhū) in Hindi, possesses a density of 800-950 kg/m³ and tensile strength of 80-100 MPa [1]. Its natural decay resistance stems from resinous compounds. Traditionally sourced from forests across Assam, West Bengal, and Madhya Pradesh, Śāl was crucial for structural elements. Ancient texts mention शाखोटक वृक्ष की लकड़ी (Śākhotaka vṛkṣa kī lakḍī) as a building material. The Maurya and Gupta dynasties utilized it extensively. In Ahom kingdom (1228-1826), Śāl served in constructing *ghar* (houses) and *doul* (temples). Processing involves felling, seasoning, and sawing. Conservation requires careful assessment of decay and insect damage, often necessitating replacement with seasoned Śāl or compatible hardwoods. Traditional joinery techniques are vital for restoration. The wood was used for wooden collars [1]. Durability is key, but environmental factors necessitate ongoing maintenance.

Question 2

What type of material is शाल की लकड़ी (Sal Wood)?

Accepted Answer

शाल की लकड़ी (Sal Wood) is classified as Hardwood, Timber. Key properties include Density: 800-950 kg/m³, Tensile strength: 80-100 MPa, Modulus of elasticity: 12-15 GPa.

Question 3

Where is शाल की लकड़ी (Sal Wood) used?

Accepted Answer

शाल की लकड़ी (Sal Wood) is commonly used in Assam, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh. It is sourced from Forests of Assam, Central Indian forests.

Question 4

How is शाल की लकड़ी (Sal Wood) used in heritage architecture?

Accepted Answer

शाल की लकड़ी (Sal Wood) is used for Structural beams, Door frames, Window frames, Roofing supports, Pillars, Flooring, Joinery in heritage architecture. It is found in 1 heritage sites.

Question 5

What are the conservation considerations for शाल की लकड़ी (Sal Wood)?

Accepted Answer

Conservation of शाल की लकड़ी (Sal Wood) requires attention to Susceptible to fungal decay in damp conditions and Requires treatment with natural oils for preservation. Proper maintenance is essential for preserving heritage structures using this material.

Title	शाल की लकड़ी (Sal Wood) 4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site) Rare Śāl kī lakaṛī Sal Wood 4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site)
Description	शाल (Śāl), or Shorea robusta, is a significant timber in Indic heritage architecture. This hardwood, known as साखू (Sākhū) in Hindi, possesses a density of 800-950 kg/m³ and tensile strength of 80-100 MPa [1]. Its natural decay resistance stems from resinous compounds. Traditionally sourced from forests across Assam, West Bengal, and Madhya Pradesh, Śāl was crucial for structural elements. Ancient texts mention शाखोटक वृक्ष की लकड़ी (Śākhotaka vṛkṣa kī lakḍī) as a building material. The Maurya and Gupta dynasties utilized it extensively. In Ahom kingdom (1228-1826), Śāl served in constructing ghar (houses) and doul (temples). Processing involves felling, seasoning, and sawing. Conservation requires careful assessment of decay and insect damage, often necessitating replacement with seasoned Śāl or compatible hardwoods. Traditional joinery techniques are vital for restoration. The wood was used for wooden collars [1]. Durability is key, but environmental factors necessitate ongoing maintenance.
Also Known As	Sal Wood Śāl kī lakaṛī Sal Wood Shorea robusta wood Sal timber शाल साखू साल वृक्ष की लकड़ी शाखोटक वृक्ष की लकड़ी Maram sal (Tamil) గుగ్గిలం కర్ర (Guggilam karra) (Telugu) ಸಾಲ್ ಮರ (Sāl mara) (Kannada) ശാലമരം (Śālamaraṁ) (Malayalam)
Tags	Shal Wood Sal Wood Hardwood Timber Construction Material
Material ID	`INHFMAT-161357617-20-11-25-SL`
URI	https://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/material/sal-wood
API Endpoint	`https://www.inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/materials/sal-wood`
Total Sites	1
Primary Sites	0
Created	November 20, 2025
Last Updated	November 28, 2025

Time Periods	Ancient Medieval Ahom Kingdom (1228-1826)
Dynasties	Maurya Gupta Ahom

शाल की लकड़ी (Sal Wood)

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