Boudhanath Stupa UNESCO Tour

Boudhanath Stupa overview

Boudhanath Stupa is located 11 kilometres northeast of Kathmandu’s centre. Since the fifth century, it has stood solidly on the skyline, overwhelming it with its purity and beauty. It is the biggest spherical stupa in Nepal and one of the biggest stupas in all of Asia.

Boudhanath is a highly well-liked tourist site. More than 50 monasteries surround a sizable population of Tibetan refugees and Buddhist pilgrims around the stupa complex. Tibetan exiles inspired the architecture of the monasteries.

One might experience friendly and happy sentiments because of the environment’s purity and tranquillity. The aroma of various incense fragrances fills the air surrounding Boudhanath. Because of the different Tibetan chants and mantras being recited by Tibetan and Buddhist pilgrims and monks, the ambience appears to be more clean, spiritual, and courteous.

This stupa attracts many travellers from both local and foreign countries, making it a well-known tourist attraction. People around join the locals for Kora in the morning and evening for a loving atmosphere. The kora is a clockwise round trek around the stupa.

This stupa was included in the Kathmandu Valley’s list of World Heritage Sites by UNESCO in 1979. It is well-known for its aesthetic appeal, tranquillity, and spirituality.

The Boudhanath complex has several fast-food restaurants, coffee shops, and gift shops. Restaurants and cafés with rooftop patios offer stunning views of the stupa.

Around the Boudhanath stupa, the evening is always a pleasant and courteous time.

Backstory of Boudhanath

Before the Panchayat era, Boudhanath’s actual name was Khasti Mahachaitya. The term “huge stupa of dewdrops” is “khasti Mahachaitya.” But King Mahendra eventually called it “Boudhanath” during the Panchayat regime in the 1960s.

When Song Tsen Gampo, the Tibetan ruler, turned to Buddhism in 600 AD, it was claimed that the first stupa at Boudhanath was constructed. Eventually, the original stupa was demolished by the Mughal kings.

However, the Lichhavi king Sivadeva is credited with building the stupa in the fifth century, according to the Gopalaraja-vamsawali. Several rulers are linked to the building of this stupa. This stupa was built during the time of King Manadeva, according to several Nepalese chronicles.

Archaeologists also discovered Amshu Verma’s remains in the late 15th and early 16th centuries. In addition, the building of this historic stupa is the subject of several tales and legends.

The location is elegant enough to draw a large number of visitors. The site uniquely conveys valuable religious knowledge and culture in a calm and dynamic setting. Other significant locations around Boudha Stupa include AJIMA TEMPLE, a shrine to the goddess Mamo Pukasi, who guards the stupa region.

The stupa is located on its north side. Every morning, the lama (priest) goes to GHYOILISANG PEACE PARK to do their religious duties. This park was called the “history pond” since Boudha Stupa was built on dirt from this pond.

Structure

In the shape of a mandala, the Boudhanath stupa is designed. Symbolizing Buddha’s journey to enlightenment, it is a three-dimensional representation. The stupa’s base represents Earth, the Kumbha (white dome) represents water, the spire represents air, and the top umbrella form represents the vacuum. Humans must travel through 13 phases to reach Nirvana. The 13 spires represent these stages.

2015 earthquake; Boudhanath Stupa

The earthquake in April 2015 severely damaged this enormous stupa. The renovations started on November 3rd, 2015. The stupa was rebuilt and renovated by the Boudha Area Development Committee. Buddhist organizations and volunteers gave funds for rehabilitation and development projects. On November 22nd, 2016, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal formally opened the recently built stupa.

Needs for Management and Protection

The Ancient Monuments Preservation Act of 1956 has recognized the selected site as a protected monument zone, offering the highest national level of protection. Following the duties and powers expressly outlined in the 2007-adopted Integrated Management Plan for the Kathmandu World Heritage Property. The property has been managed through the coordinated efforts of central, local, and non-governmental organizations.

Five-year reviews of the Integrated Management Plan’s execution will be conducted to provide any necessary augmentations and adjustments to reflect evolving conditions. Disaster risk management for the enterprise is a crucial issue that will be covered.

Other Fascinating Sites Around Boudhanath Stupa

Within the boundaries of Boudha Stupa, there are several Gumba and monasteries. The first Tibetan monastery, founded by His Eminence Kachen Yeshi Gyaltsen, is SAMTELING MONASTERY, one of the four lineages of monasteries. This monastery is a part of the Geluk tradition, which still upholds its unique chanting and ceremonial practices. Chyopge Thichen founded the monastery JHAMCHEN LHAKHANG in 1989.

Chanting and this monastery preserves ceremonial practices from the Sakya tradition. Master Dazang Ngeden Chhoeki Ngima Palsangpo constructed the monastery at DILYAK YEBAM in 1966. All of the Buddhist rites are performed at this monastery. This monastery, also known as Guru Marmen Lhakang, is a part of the Kagyud sect and is one of the oldest Nyingma monasteries. These magnificent statues are at this monastery.

The indigenous Tamang and Chiniya Lama carry out various traditional and ceremonial activities.

The most important and fascinating period is when Boudhanath Stupa celebrated many festivals. Events like Mamla Jatra (January/February), Chechyu Puja (December/January), Loshar (second half of January and February), Temal Jatra (March/April full moon), Ropai Jatra (August full moon), and Buddha Jayanti (April/May) are just a few examples.

The Incredible Mountains Travels team offers a variety of appealing locations in Nepal, including Boudhanath. If you intend to visit this famous holy place, please feel free to contact us.

FAQ

Q1. What makes Boudhanath Stupa unique?
The relics and bones of Buddha are kept inside the semicircular Boudha stupa. The stupa is one of the biggest spherical stupas worldwide due to its enormous mandala.

Q2. What is improper behaviour in Buddha’s presence?
Honour the Buddha statues.
Never approach a Buddha statue, the raised platform it is seated on, or climb on it. Never take photos during worship without first getting permission.

Q3. How frequently do you circle a stupa?
It is customary to make three rounds around the stupa while praying and wishing the best for everyone. It is thought that the blessing and soul-cleansing power of stupas may be experienced just by approaching one.