Boudhanath Stupa

Overview

The Boudhanath Stupa must be its Buddhist counterpart. The origins of this remarkable stupa are shrouded in Newar and Tibetan Buddhist myths and tales, while some sources claim it was built by a Licchavi King Sivadeva as early as the 5th century CE. It is now one of the world’s largest Buddhist stupas, and the surrounding area is a Buddhist-populated community with over 40 monasteries nearby. Every day, a huge number of visitors, pilgrims, and locals visit the Stupa for various reasons. Chanting monks, spinning prayer wheels, flocks of pigeons, and the scent of incense are just a few of the components that contribute to the atmosphere.

This stupa is located 8 kilometers east of Kathmandu City and is one of the world’s largest stupas. It stands in the four cardinal directions with four pairs of eyes, keeping watch for good behavior and human prosperity. On the advice of the Goddess Mani Jogini, King Man Deva erected this Buddhist Stupa. It stands on an octagonal base with prayer wheels inlaid. Houses of Lamas, or Buddhist priests, surround the shrine.