Boudhanath Stupa

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Since the 5th century, the Boudhnath Stupa has maintained its sturdy dominance over the landscape because of its pristine beauty. It is the largest spherical stupa in all of Nepal, as well as one of the largest stupas in all of Asia. More than fifty monasteries surround the stupa complex, influenced by Tibetan refugees who fled their homeland. 

In 1979, this stupa was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List as part of the Kathmandu valley's World Heritage Site. It is well known for its beauty, tranquility, and spirituality.

 

Things to do at Boudhanath Stupa:


  • Participate in the morning and evening kora with the locals to immerse yourself in the cherished culture:

The twilight hours in the vicinity of the Boudhanath stupa are always joyful and gracious. One can obtain a sensation of pleasant and positive energies from the surroundings because it is so pristine and peaceful. Incense burned in various scents fills the air around Boudhanath, making it a wonderful place to take in the aroma. Because of the many Tibetan chantings and mantras being recited by Tibetan and Buddhist pilgrims and monks, the atmosphere is transformed to feel more spiritual, pure, and courteous.

 

  • Learn about the inspiration behind the architectural design:

The Boudhanath stupa is designed in the form of a mandala. It is a three-dimensional reminder of the road that Buddha took to enlightenment and represents that path's symbolism.

The foundation of the stupa represents the Earth, the Kumbha (the white dome) represents water, the spire represents air, and the umbrella-like structure at the very top represents nothingness. The 13 spires serve as a representation of those different levels or stages.


  • Soak in beautiful views from the vantage point:

A higher vantage over the flow of pilgrims surging around the stupa may be found on the plinth, which is open from 5 am to 6 pm (or until 7 pm during the warmer months). Find the gateway at the north end of the stupa, next to a small shrine dedicated to Hariti (Ajima), the goddess of smallpox, to go to the upper level of the plinth.


  • Embrace the spiritual sentiment here:

The Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, which may take on one of 108 different forms and is portrayed in its entirety in the base of the stupa, is the focus of all of this structure's devotion. Notice the devoted worshipers who have positioned themselves so that their entire bodies are pressed against the ground in the courtyard on the east side of the stupa.


  • Get involved in iconic rituals:

An experience that will prove to be quite calming and beneficial is to circumambulate the Boudhanath stupa while turning the prayer wheels. This can be done under the watchful gaze of the Buddha. Engage in this highly calming practise that is also said to help purify people's karma. In addition to this, while you are out walking, you should light several butter candles and hope that your wishes will come true.

 

  •  The emblematic flags denote a meaning for you to decipher:

Various mantras and prayers worldwide are written on this prayer flag. Five sets of prayer flags can be purchased, and each of those sets comes in a wide range of color options. These five hues are a representation of the elements, and they also disclose the five different kinds of light.

 

  • Wander around the streets around the stupa that come alive with living heritage:

Within the confines of the Boudhanath complex, you'll find a wide variety of fast-food cafes, restaurants, coffee shops, and souvenir shops. One can visit several monasteries and workshops making Buddhist essentials and enjoy relaxing at touristy and local cafes that provide visitors with an excellent vantage point from which to take in the stupa's breathtaking panorama.

  • imageDuration Required
    3 hours

Address of Boudhanath Stupa

Buddha Stupa, Boudha Sadak, Kathmandu, 44600, Nepal

Opening & Closing time of Boudhanath Stupa

  • Monday
    Open 24 Hours
  • Tuesday
    Open 24 Hours
  • Wednesday
    Open 24 Hours
  • Thursday
    Open 24 Hours
  • Friday
    Open 24 Hours
  • Saturday
    Open 24 Hours
  • Sunday
    Open 24 Hours

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