Boudhanath Stupa

Location:Boudh, Kathmandu, Bāgmatī 44600
Recommended reason: One of the largest stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Recommended visit time: 3-5 hours

 

Boudhanath Stupa, also known as Boudhanath or Jhyarung Khashyor, is located about 8-9 kilometers northeast of the center of Kathmandu Valley in Nepal.

 

Boudhanath Stupa is also one of the oldest stupas with ancient stories and facts about its origin and history. The magnificent dome also makes it one of the largest and most important Buddhist monuments in the world.

 

For a long time, this Buddhist heritage has been a major attraction for both domestic and foreign tourists. But no one knows exactly the history of the stupa. After UNESCO added it to the list of World Heritage Sites in 1979 AD, its popularity rose and it became one of the most famous Buddhist heritage sites in the world.

 

If you are in Kathmandu, this spiritual shrine must be on your wish list. The stupa is connected to the main roads of Kathmandu and can be easily reached by a half-hour cab ride or by taking a Kathmandu sightseeing tour.

 

Boudhanath's Origin and Historical Development

Boudhanath is a stupa with a rich and varied history. The origins of the stupa are somewhat unclear, with different sources providing differing accounts of its construction. According to some Tibetan literature, the stupa was constructed during the reign of emperor Trisong Detsen in the 8th century. However, Nepali manuscripts date the stupa back even further to the reign of King Manadeva in the 5th century, while others claim it was built during the reign of King Vrisadeva/Vikramjit in the 4th century.

 

Significance of the Stupa

The Boudhanath Stupa is a cultural and environmental beacon that attracts millions of visitors each year. The design and architecture of the Boudhanath stupa aim to express the Buddha's journey to enlightenment and the interconnectedness of all things. The mandala shape of the stupa symbolizes the presence of the whole, with each part representing an essential element of Buddhism. Of note is the role that the Bodhi Stupa plays in the lives of those who live in its shadow.

 

The cultural significance of the stupa to locals and village pilgrims cannot be overemphasized. It is a center for prayer and meditation, and people from all walks of life visit it for spiritual purposes. Buddhists from all over the world make pilgrimages to the Bodhi Stupa to experience the sense of calm and serenity that it offers. The stupa is also a gathering place for festivals and celebrations throughout the year, providing an important cultural touchstone for the community.

 

The symbolism of different parts of the stupa

 

Mandala -- Mansion of Buddha
Dome -- Symbol of universe or Vase of great treasure
Two Eyes -- Symbol of method and wisdom
Harmika -- Symbol of eight noble paths (Right view, thought, speech, action, livelihood, endeavor, mindfulness, and right meditative concentration)
Nose-like Symbo l-- Symbol of Nirvana
Thirteen Steps -- The thirteen tastes of Bodhisattva’s ground for the complete enlightenment
Lotus -- Symbol of compassion and purity
Umbrella -- Protector of three jewels: Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha
Pinnacle -- Symbol of Mt. Sumeru (The king of the mountains.)

Some other parts of Bouddha are:

Prayer flags: Prayers flags are known as the carrier of mantras and prayers. When the wind flutters the flags around Stupa, it is believed to spread prayers and positive vibes.

Two Circular Plinths: Two circular plinths are supporting the stupa just below the dome and they represent water.

The decreasing platforms: The three decreasing in size, large platforms at the stupa’s base symbolize earth.

 

Where is Boudhanath Stupa?

It is located about 7 kilometers northeast of the central area of Kathmandu.
Budhanath is closely connected to the city's main road. You can easily recognize its towering presence with the iconic Buddha's eyes at its head, gazing serenely in all four main directions. These symbolic eyes are not only spiritual symbols but also serve as clear landmarks for travelers as they navigate the labyrinth of Kathmandu city.

 

If you are staying in the central areas of Kathmandu, such as Thamel or Durbar Square, there are countless transportation options available. Cabs are readily available and are a comfortable option, especially for those unfamiliar with the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu. During your journey, you can choose to use "Bodhi Stupa" or simply "Bodhi" as your destination keyword, cab drivers, or digital navigation tools to ensure an accurate trajectory.

 

For the more adventurous souls, local buses plying Kathmandu-Pashupatinath- Boudhanath route provide an authentic experience of local life. If you decide to embark on this journey, it's recommended to ask locals or your accommodation's front desk for bus numbers and timings. The route is relatively straightforward, but the experience is enriched manifold when you're equipped with local knowledge.
Upon nearing Boudhanath, the urban landscape starts to mirror the Tibetan Buddhist influence, with prayer flags fluttering and the gentle hum of chants becoming more discernible. This subtle transition serves as an intuitive guide leading you to the stupa's entrance.

 

How to get Boudhanath Stupa?

It is very easy to get to the Budharat Stupa from Thamel by cab or bus. While cabs are more expensive, especially during heavy traffic, buses can be very dirty and busy, so it is best to take a cab. If you need help calling a cab, just ask the hotel staff and they can arrange it for you. There are also a few hotels near the stupa, but staying there means driving to Kathmandu to visit other major attractions.

 

Admission Fee

Entry to the Boudhanath Stupa is 400 Nepalese Nilas for foreigners, 100 Nepalese Nilas for residents of SAARC countries, and free for Nepalese and children under 10 years of age.

 

You can find the ticket office on the main street leading to the Stupa Square, and if you're staying in a local guesthouse, you'll only have to pay once. If you just want to wander around, please note that the ticket office is closed in the evening, but Stupa Square is open 24 hours a day.
 
Foreign Nationals/NPR 400

Saarc Residents/NPR 100

Local Nepalese and children below 10 /Free

 

Tips and guides

There is no definite time to visit the stupa as every time of the day offers a unique and unforgettable experience. During the day, visitors can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and lively, yet dynamic company of many. In contrast, the evenings offer an atmosphere of peace and tranquility, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere of the stupa. Here are some tips to make the most of your time.

Respect the local culture and customs.
Boudhanath Stupa is a sacred place for Buddhists and Hindus and visitors should respect local customs and dress appropriately. Avoid littering and make sure you don't cause any disturbance to those worshipping on the grounds.

 

Walk around the stupa.
Walking around the stupa is known as Kora and is a great way to experience the local culture and atmosphere. You can also spin the meridian wheel and do this at the same time. As is customary, walk around the stupa in a clockwise direction, keeping the stupa on your right, and rotate the sutra wheel in the same direction. When circling the stupa, make sure to complete it an odd number of times, as per tradition.

 

Visit the neighboring monasteries and learn about their history:
There are more than two dozen monasteries around Boudhanath, each offering unique insights into Tibetan Buddhism. Be sure to visit some of the monasteries, including Shechen, Fulhari, Nunarry, and Sherpa monasteries.Budhanath has a rich history, with many museums and cultural centers showcasing local history and art.

 

Savour the local cuisine and shop for souvenirs.
Home to some of the best Tibetan and Nepalese cuisines, Bodnar is considered a culinary paradise. Be sure to try momos, thukpa, the famous Tibetan ghee tea, and a variety of flavors. Similarly, the shops around Boudhanath are known for their unique souvenirs including Tibetan singing bowls, jewelry, brassware, incense, sutras, and thangka paintings.

 

Carry cash, a spare mask, and a camera.
Smaller merchants may not accept credit cards or online transactions, so it's wise to carry cash with you. At the same time, the festival is crowded and dusty most of the time, so not wearing a mask may not be a good decision. Boudhanath is a photographer's paradise with stunning architecture, colorful meridians, and bustling streets. Take a photo tour to capture the beauty of this place.

 

Plan a trip during the festivals :
Boudhanath celebrates many festivals throughout the year including Mamla Jatra, Chechyu Puja, Loshar, Temal Jatra, Ropai Jatra, and the main festival celebrated there, Buddha Jayanti, on the auspicious day that is considered to be the birth of Siddhartha Chodama. Plan your trip accordingly to experience these colorful festivals.