The Boudhanath Stupa, one of the most ancient, largest, and magnificent Stupa in Kathmandu, Nepal, and the world, built in the 5th century. It is located approximately 11 km to the northeast of the city centre. The Stupa declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. The Tibetan king, Songtsen Gampo, first established it in 600 AD. Following the Chinese invasion in 1959, many Tibetans came to this Stupa, which today has become one of the most important centres of Tibetan Buddhism. The Buddha’s eyes have painted on all four sides of the cube at the top of the Stupa, symbolizing the Buddha’s wisdom seeing all things in all four cardinal directions. The Stupa has been built on a massive three-level mandala-style platform and is 36 m in height. The sputa’s architecture incorporates the five elements that epitomize Buddha: earth, air, water, fire, and space.
Boudha is a place of profound spirituality and reverence, and it is one of the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Kathmandu, Nepal. On the day of the full moon, monks engage in prayer and song, and all Buddhists visit this holy site. As part of a daily ritual, many individuals circumambulate the Stupa at least three times while chanting the mantra ‘Om Mani Padme Hum’ in a “kora”. Prayer flags attached to the Stupa wave in the wind, carrying mantras and prayers heavenward.
The Boudhanath Stupa is encircled by streets and narrow lanes adorned with vibrant houses, Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, and street vendors. The area around the Stupa is bustling with numerous restaurants, coffee shops, cafes, guesthouses, and shops selling Tibetan art and crafts, including Buddha statues. Inside the Boudha Stupa premises, one can find popular Tibetan dishes such as Laphing, Thukpa, Alu roti, and khapse, which are a famous among the locals. The area is also home to a variety of eateries serving not just Nepalese, but diverse cuisines. Traditional Nepali food, specifically Daal Bhat, can also be found. The area is a shopping hub for many people. Different kinds of shops that promote local as well as branded products can be found in that area.
The Boudhanath Stupa suffered significant damage in the Nepal earthquake of April 2015. The entire structure above the dome, including the religious relics it housed, had to be deconstructed. Reconstruction efforts, overseen by the Boudhanath Area Development Committee, began in June 2015 and were completed by November 2016. The restorations have been made possible entirely through private donations from Buddhist groups and individual volunteers. The Stupa is now open to the public after its renovation.
In the context of Stupa, the prominent pairs of eyes positioned on all four sides of the central Stupa referred to as Buddha eyes or wisdom eyes, serve as symbolic representations of Buddha’s omniscience. Hence, in Buddhist philosophy, it can posit that wisdom enables individuals to perceive beyond superficial material realities, uncovering inherent truths. Presently, societal disarray prevails due to the prevalent tendency of individuals to overlook the eye of Wisdom. Instead, they succumb to distractions and illusions fueled by desires such as greed, hatred, and ignorance. These detrimental inclinations invariably lead to confusion and suffering. Consequently, individuals experience distress, melancholy, and anxiety, epitomizing the darkness of existence. It is only through the cultivation of wisdom that humanity may transcend this darkness and navigate towards enlightenment.
Guru Lhakhang Monastery, situated in the Bouddha area, stands as one of the oldest Nyingma monasteries, also recognized as the Tamang Monastery of Boudhanath. Formerly known as Guru Marmen Lhakhang, this sanctuary boasts fascinate statues of Guru PadmaSambhava, Amitabha Buddha, and Arya Avalokiteshwara as its main attractions. The Chiniya Lama and local Tamang Lama conduct traditional and ritual activities within the monastery. Despite its affiliation with the Nyingma sect, the monastery has evolved into a focal point for various Buddhist traditions. In B.S. 2063, His Holiness Thulsik Rinpoche consecrated and inaugurated the rebuilt monastery, which has since maintained its distinct Jhyang Ter tradition and rituals.
Ajima Temple is located to the north of the main Boudhanath Stupa. It is the temple of Goddess Mamo Pukasi, who is known as the protector of the Stupa area. She is also known as the “wish-fulfilling goddess”. The lama (priest) performs offerings and prays to the goddess Ajima every morning for the welfare of all sentient beings.
Ajima, also known as Hariti, was once a demon who had many children whom she loved deeply. But to provide for her children, she did something terrible. She made local children sick with smallpox, kidnapped them, and ate them to give energy to her own children. When Buddha found out about this, he hid one of Ajima’s beloved children.
Ajima was very upset when she couldn’t find her child, so she asked Buddha for help. Buddha asked her if the pain she felt was the same as the suffering she had caused to the children she had harmed. Ajima understood the seriousness of her actions and felt sorry for what she had done. She promised never to harm children again. Buddha then taught her how to be wise and appointed her as the protector of children.
Boudha is quite famous for its Thangka paintings, and you can find some Thangka Art Schools around Stupa. In fact, many Thangka shops provide training for Thangka art.Thangka learning is a peaceful place where people can learn about Thangka painting. It is a special type of art from Tibetan Buddhism known for its detailed designs and spiritual meaning. Skilled teachers teach visitors how to paint Thangka step by step, starting with drawing the important symbols and ending with carefully adding colorful details.
Ghyoilisang Pond, named in the local Tamang language, is situated to the northwest of the Boudhanath stupa, spanning an area of 15,745 square feet. Initially, the soil from this location was utilized in the construction of the Boudhanath stupa, before being repurposed into a pond. This transformation imbued the pond with historical significance, adding to its cultural and spiritual value.
The Big Prayer Wheel, also known as the Mani wheel, is a prominent attraction among the prayer wheels of Boudha. Visitors from various places are drawn to it. The Big Prayer Wheel is believed to be rolled to convey messages to God. To keep track of the rotations, a small bell is placed, which rings upon completing one full round. On prayer wheels fixed in place, you’ll often find the mantra “Om Mani Padme Hum” inscribed. This mantra holds deep significance in Tibetan Buddhism, symbolizing compassion and enlightenment.
On the rooftops near Boudhanath Stupa, there are cafes and restaurants where visitors can see the beautiful Stupa while enjoying delicious food. Many young people like to drink bubble tea there and enjoy the Stupa’s amazing view.
Around the Stupa, there are many places to eat, especially for people from other countries. They serve local and Tibetan food with the Stupa in the background, which looks nice. Moreover, if visitors want to buy traditional Nepalese things like jewelry or paintings, there is a busy market nearby. They have lots of handmade stuff, like colorful paintings and prayer flags that show the culture of Nepal. It is a great place to find unique souvenirs and learn about the region’s history.
