Boudhanath Stupa

new-year

The Boudhanath stupa (aka the Boudha, Chorten Chempo and Khãsa Caityais) is one of the holiest and most recognisable sites in Kathmandu. Assigned UNESCO world heritage status in 1979, the stupa has a height of 36 metres and a diameter of 120 metres, making it the largest in Nepal and one of the largest in the world. It has a tall central spire from which colourful prayer flags are draped and is built on an octagonal base surrounded by scores of prayer wheels. There has been a stupa on this site since Tibetan king Songsten Gampo converted to Buddhism in around 600 AD. Boudhanath is rich in symbolism. It has five statues of Dhyani Buddhas, representing the five elements (earth, fire, water, air and ether); nine levels, representing Mount Meru (the mythical peak at the centre of the Buddhist cosmos); and 13 rings from its base to its apex (representing the steps to enlightenment or Nirvana). Boudhanath is the religious centre of Nepal’s Tibetan/Buddhist community, and is surrounded by around 50 monasteries and shops settling Tibetan artefacts (at somewhat inflated prices). Look out for Tibetan monks, with shaven heads and wearing maroon robes, and pilgrims spinning prayer wheels and buying yak butter and tsampa (roasted barley flour).A trip to Boudhanath is a perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of central Kathmandu. Be careful to observe Tibetan custom by walking around the stupa in a clockwise direction.

Boudhanath is 7 kms to the east of central Kathmandu. A taxi takes about 45 minutes, and should cost about 300 rupees. A rickshaw should take about the same time but is slightly cheaper.

Late afternoon is the best time to visit, after tour groups have departed. The largest celebrations, for Losar (Tibetan New Year), are held here in February or March.

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