Thathara construction relies on locally sourced rubble or semi-dressed stones, often obtained from nearby hills or quarries, alongside Deodar wood for primary construction. Roofing materials typically include stone slates and, at times, timber planks. Timber components feature prominently in flooring, columns, bands, floor beams, roof supports, and upper-floor walls. Mud serves as plastering material and mortar for Thola construction.

The ease of material availability in neighbouring areas of Chamba has fueled the adoption of this construction practice. Field surveys in the Chamba district identified Thathara buildings lining main roads such as the Chamba-Bharmour-Hadsar and Chamba-Khajjiar-Dalhousie-Bakloh-Lahru-Baduni routes. These regions fall within Seismic Zones IV/V according to India's current seismic zonation map.

Thathara residential construction has a rich history spanning over two centuries, with some buildings dating back over a century. However, contemporary Thathara construction has dwindled due to timber scarcity. Nonetheless, the primary objective of Thathara construction remains providing shelter, making it primarily utilized for residential purposes.