Boudhanath Stupa

One of the most imposing landmarks in Kathmandu, Boudhnath Stupa is the largest stupa in the Kathmandu Valley, and is visible as soon as you land at the Tribhuvan International Airport. Go for an early morning or an evening stroll around the amazing white dome and observe the devotees around, light a butter lamp and send a prayer where you wish, look around for souvenirs, or enjoy the view around from a nearby rooftop restaurant.

This 36 meter high stupa of Boudhanath is one of the largest stupas in South Asia, with countless monasteries surrounding it. It is the center of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. Designed to replicate the Gyangtse of Tibet, the stupa was built in the shape of a mandala and was renovated by Licchhavi rulers in the 8th century. The stupa was once on the ancient trade route to Tibet and it was here that Tibetan merchants rested and offered prayers for centuries.

On each side of the stupa, there is a pair of the all seeing eyes of the Buddha that symbolizes awareness. At ground level there is a brick wall with 108 images of the meditational Buddha inset behind copper prayer wheels.

Built on an octagonal base, the stupa is surrounded by the multi coloured prayer flags draped with the help of the 36 meter central spire, and the giant prayer wheels. The temple houses five statues of the Dhyani Buddhas that represent the five key elements of nature - ether, earth, water, fire and air; nine levels delineate Mount Meru which is a mythical peak at the centre of the Buddhist cosmos; and finally 13 rings from the base towards the apex depicting the steps towards achieving Nirvana.

If visiting the stupa, remember to walk around the stupa in a clockwise direction and also to spin the prayer wheels clockwise.