Bouddhanath Stupa

This Colossal stupa the biggest in Nepal is situated about 7km. East of the capital. The Bouddhhnath stupa is also known as Khasti Chitya and is considered as one of the oldest stupas in the country.After 1959, many Tibetans came and have settled in Bouddhanath area.

With a diameter of about 100m and a height of 40m, Bouddhanath is among the largest stupas in the world. The Bouddhanath stupa covers a vast area that has a circumbulatory path at the bottom and another path made of three-tier plinth. The stupa looks similar to Swayambhunath but many features in this stupa are pinnacles as well as 108 Buddhist Gods and Goddesses. The most attractive part of the Stupa is the all seeing eyes of the Buddha painted with red, white and blue.

It is believed that King Manadeva built the Bouddhanath stupa during the Lichavi period. It has been renovated time and again and the present form of stupa was renovated in the 17th century.

The most popular festival celebrated here is the Tibetan New Year festival Lhosar that falls in February. The festival starts with prayers and worship. Thousands, of Tibetans dress Traditionally and dance after lighting incense to Buddha. Lots of Tibetan comes from Laddakh, Sikkim, Bhutan as well as other parts of the hills to celebrate this festival.

In Bouddhanath, there are many monasteries or Gompas. They are all beautifully decorated and colorfully painted. One can visit the monasteries and take photographs. It is advisable to give small donation when one takes photographs.