Boudhanath Stupa

Boudhanath Stupa or simply Boudha, about 100 ft in diameter, is one of the largest spherical stupas in the world. It is also known as Jhyarung Khashyor, a term used primarily by the Tamang community. It reflects their deep cultural and historical ties to this sacred Buddhist stupa. This magnificent stupa is located in the Kathmandu Valley and serves as a sacred area for worship among Buddhists. 

Boudha contains the relics of Buddhas, a temple for Goddess Ajima at the northern entrance. Hence, the stupa symbolizes peace, spirituality, enlightenment, and devotion. The unique design and rich history of the shrine have made it a popular sightseeing place in Kathmandu. The entrance fee to the stupa is as follows:

• Foreign nationals: NPR 400
• SAARC nationals: NPR 100
• Nepali and Children under 10: Free

Historical Background

Bouddhanath Stupa is one of the most sacred Nepali Buddhist sites having a history of over 1,500 years. The Great Stupa was built in the 5th century by a Lichhavi King, Mandev. It is a stunning piece of architecture and a major spiritual heritage site in Nepal for Buddhist worship and Tibetan culture after the arrival of Tibetan refugees in the mid-20th century.

Bouddhanath became a center for various Buddhist festivals, including Losar (Tibetan New Year) and Buddha Jayanti, attracting devotees and tourists, followed by Swoyambhunath, one of the major stupas in Nepal. Therefore, UNESCO enlisted Boudhanath Stupa as a World Heritage Site in 1979 to further highlight its cultural, historical, and architectural significance to the world.

Origin stories and construction timeline

There are many legends behind the origin and history of the construction of this glorious monument. 

King Mandev’s Atonement

King Manadeva of the Licchavi dynasty is the central figure in a poignant historical tale. It is said that in a fit of rage and influenced by a vision, he tragically took the life of his father, King Vishnu Gupta. To seek forgiveness for this grave error, he constructed the Boudhanath Stupa as a symbol of his penance. 

There’s a variation to this lore where a Maata(a spiritual guru) visioned a demon blocking the water supply to the Kathmandu Valley, causing great suffering, and the King needed to sacrifice a person to get water back. Dharmadeva did not want his son to kill an innocent person, so he disguised himself as a demon for his son to kill. When King Mandeva realized he had killed his father, he constructed the stupa as an act of remorse and redemption to restore spiritual harmony.

The Legend of Widow Jyajima and Her Sons

The legend of a humble widow “Jyajima” is a widely-known legend where she and her four sons constructed the stupa. Jyajima refers to a female poultry keeper. She asked for land for the stupa from the king to pay tribute to Lord Buddha. The king, impressed by her devotion, gave her permission. In today’s era, her sons are worshipped as the Four Great Bodhisattvas, a representation of principles of enlightenment and compassion. This legend demonstrates devotion, faith, and united effort, adding more spiritual significance to the stupa.

Connection to King Ashoka

Although King Ashoka, the Mauryan emperor, is more directly associated with other stupas in South Asia, his influence is evident in the early spread of Buddhism that inspired monuments like the Boudhanath Stupa. People believe that he sent missionaries to the Himalayan region to spread the Buddhist religion and his vision of peace and devotion.

Boudha stupa stands as a symbol of resilience and faith after the renovation due to the damage from the massive earthquake in 2015.

Architectural Highlights

Design elements

The Boudhanath Stupa showcases a simple yet powerful design rooted in Buddhism. There are communities of prayer flags fluttering in the wind, statues, prayer wheels, gompas, and shops surrounding the stupa, enhancing a vibrant and peaceful environment. Every element of the stupa reflects spiritual teachings, allowing visitors to connect with its deeper meanings.

The massive Spherical dome

The enormous white dome is the heart of the stupa’s design, representing the universe and the infinite nature of existence. It is coated in limewash and highlighted with golden-yellow patterns that radiate a sense of purity and tranquility. A harmika is constructed at the top of Boudhanath’s dome. It is a square tower that symbolizes the four cardinal directions.

Above the harmika, there is a pinnacle consisting of 13 steps that represent the stages a person must pass through to achieve enlightenment in Buddhism. It serves as a powerful visual representation of the teachings of the Buddha and the path to spiritual awakening. 

Buddha’s eyes 

The iconic eyes of Buddha sitting just above the dome are painted on all four sides of the square tower. These all-seeing eyes of Buddha are also called the Wisdom Eyes, and they represent his ability to observe the suffering and needs of all living beings. The symbol between the eyes, which resembles a question mark, signifies unity and the path to spiritual liberation.

The mandala

There are beautifully crafted mandalas around the base of the stupa called mandalas. These mandalas are geometrically designed to represent the cosmic order and serve as both a physical and spiritual foundation for the stupa. They are often used in meditation and prayers to promote self-reflection and mindfulness.

Unique features

Boudha Stupa does not feature Torana or Dhyani Buddhas. As a result, the stupa is considered distinct and focused on its stunning dome and spiritual significance rather than ornamental gateways or meditating Buddhas.

Use of limewash and symbolic saffron patterns.

The stupa is coated with limewash, giving it its signature white color that symbolizes purity and peace. The surface is decorated with saffron-colored patterns representing wisdom, enlightenment, and devotion in Buddhism. They enhance the stupa’s tranquil aura and make it a visually stunning spiritual monument.

Cultural and Spiritual Significance

It is a beacon of spirituality and a cultural treasure near Kathmandu for Buddhists all over the world. The stupa symbolizes peace, compassion, and enlightenment, attracting many visitors while serving as a haven for meditation, prayer, and reflection. This UNESCO World Heritage site stands as a bridge between history, culture, and spirituality, showcasing Nepal’s deep-rooted Buddhist heritage.

Role in Buddhist rituals and ceremonies.

The Stupa is at the heart of many important rituals and ceremonies of Buddhism. Monks and pilgrims gather here for prayers, chants, and the lighting of butter lamps, which symbolize dispelling ignorance and inviting wisdom. The stupa is also the focal point for festivals like Buddha Jayanti and Losar (Tibetan New Year), where rituals include offerings of food, flowers, and incense, as well as traditional performances. Hence, the stupa unites communities for spiritual devotion and worship.

Importance of circumambulation (pradakshina) and offerings.

Circumambulation or pradakshina is a significant spiritual practice performed at Boudhanath Stupa. Devotees walk in a clockwise direction around the stupa while spinning prayer wheels and chanting mantras, believing it brings merit and spiritual purification. You can witness people counting Buddha Chitta mala consisting of 108 small beads. Offerings such as incense, butter lamps, flowers, and food are made to express gratitude and seek blessings. 

The Tibetan -Nepalese Influence

The Tibetan-Nepalese influence is deeply intertwined, especially in regions like Kathmandu and Lhasa, where Buddhist traditions from both cultures have blended. Nepal, particularly Kathmandu Valley, has been a significant center for Buddhism in Tibet, and its mutual influence has shaped art, culture, and religious practices. 

Historical role in the ancient Tibetan trade route

The Tibetan trade route passes through the Himalayan regions and connects Nepal and Tibet. This Boudhanath stupa located along the route served as a layover for merchants and travelers for rest, worship, and trade with locals. It facilitated cultural and economic heritage and exchanges between the two regions contributing to the spread of Buddhism and the exchange of goods and ideas.

The stupa remains a thriving hub for traditional Tibetan goods, religious artifacts, and souvenirs in the present day.

Tibetan refugee community and monasteries around the stupa.

After the Chinese invasion of Tibet in the 1950s, a large refugee community settled in Nepal, especially around Boudhanath Stupa, bringing their Tibetan religious practices, art, and traditions. The Stupa is a major Buddhist site outside Tibet, attracting Nepali and Tibetan people for pilgrimage and worship.

Several monasteries like Ganden, Sakya, and Nyingma have been established around Bouddhanath stupa to preserve Tibetan culture and traditions. These monasteries serve as centers for learning, meditation, and ritual practices of Tibetan Buddhism, attracting both national and international visitors.

Activities for visitors

You can do a wide range of activities while visiting Boudhanath Stupa that offer a deeper connection to the culture and spiritual practices.

Photography

The spherical stupa has striking architecture, vibrant prayer flags, and a bustling atmosphere making it a photographer’s paradise. Hence it offers countless opportunities to capture the essence of Tibetan Buddhism, spirituality, and faithful people.

Prayer wheel spinning

Visitors can spin the prayer wheels while walking around the stupa. The prayer wheels are inscribed with sacred mantras. It is believed that spinning these wheels clockwise spreads positive energy and blessings with each turn.

Rooftop dining

There are numerous cafes and restaurants around the stupa. Many of them offer rooftop dining with panoramic views of the stupa. They allow visitors to relax and enjoy traditional Tibetan cuisine while immersing themselves in the serene environment. The popular Tibetan cuisines around Boudhanath include Rildok, Laphing, Keema Noodles, Thukpa, and Khaspsi.

Interacting with monks and participating in meditation sessions.

Visitors interested in Buddhism can also visit different monasteries and interact with monks or gurus. They can learn about the teachings of Lord Buddha and participate in meditation sessions, gaining insights into Tibetan Buddhist practices.

Festivals and Events’ Significance

Buddha Jayanti

Buddha Jayanti is celebrated to mark the birth, enlightenment, and death anniversary of Lord Buddha. On this day, pilgrims gather for prayers and offerings and walk around the stupa called kora(circumambulations). Visitors can witness the united devotion of the local and Tibetan Buddhist communities.

Lhosar (Tibetan New Year)

Lhosar is a Buddhist festival that marks the start of the Tibetan New Year. Visitors can witness traditional rituals, music, dances, and offerings at Boudhanath. The stupa is decorated with prayer flags and lights, creating a festive environment in which to experience Tibetan Buddhist cultural traditions and rituals.

How do these events enhance the experience of visiting the stupa?

During these festivals, pilgrims from every corner of the world make kora and recite prayers around the great Stupa adorned with colorful prayer flags and festive lights. Nearby, local people provide food, water, and drink as a sign of hospitality and generosity for pilgrims and visitors.

Stalls selling butter lamps are set up throughout the area for visitors to light. The atmosphere around the stupa is filled with prayer music, folk songs, cultural performances, and dances showcasing the cultures and traditions. These festivities allow guests to immerse themselves in the diverse culture of the Tibetan and Nepali visitors, making it a truly unforgettable experience.

Nearby Attractions

Shechen Monastery

Shechen Monastery is one of Nepal’s largest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries near Boudha. It was established by Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche in 1980 after the original monastery in Tibet was destroyed in the late 1950s. This monastery is known for its large library and beautiful Tibetan art, which includes paintings and intricate statues. The stupa also serves as a center for Buddhist study and practice, home to hundreds of monks who receive education in Buddhist philosophy, music, dance, and painting.

 Workshops for Thangka painting

Visitors interested in Tibetan art can attend Thangka painting workshops in the area. These workshops provide an opportunity to learn about the intricate art of creating traditional Tibetan religious paintings, often depicting Buddhist deities.

Tibetan market

The nearby Tibetan market is a bustling area where visitors can shop for traditional Tibetan crafts, jewelry, prayer items, and souvenirs. The market offers a chance to take home unique handmade items while experiencing the vibrant local culture.

Tips for travellers

• Avoid Photography in Restricted Areas: Watch out for no-photography zones, and you must always obtain consent before photographing or recording monks or rituals.
• Respect the Peace: Stroll and speak quietly to avoid any disruptive behavior and show respect to the worshippers.
• Avoid Unwanted Guides: If you’re on a self-guided journey, you should decline unwanted guide services courteously.

Best time to visit for a serene experience.

The best Seasons are Autumn (September-November) and Spring (March-May) as they offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists, providing a calm and enjoyable visit. The stupa is less crowded, and the atmosphere is more peaceful, especially early in the morning or late in the afternoon. The site tends to attract more visitors on weekends and public holidays if you’re looking for a quiet experience.

Tips on respectful behavior and dress code.

• Always walk clockwise around the stupa, as this is the traditional way to show respect.
• If you wish to interact with monks or local people, do so with humility and respect.
• You should be mindful during prayer times or festivals and avoid interrupting religious ceremonies.
• Dress modestly when visiting the stupa, and avoid clothing with offensive symbols or overly casual attire like shorts and tank tops to show respect towards its sacracy.

Conclusion

The stupa’s great architectural beauty, rich origin, and lively ambiance make it a must-visit landmark in Kathmandu. Boudhanath Stupa is the perfect place for anyone fascinated by Buddhism, Tibetan culture, or spiritual journeys. Whether you visit the stupa seeking enlightenment, cultural immersion, or simply a peaceful escape, Boudhanath will grant you a unique experience that will stay with you long after you leave.