Boudhnath Stupa Ultimate Guide

March 5th 2020

It is situated on the outskirts of Nepal's main city, Kathmandu, in the northeast.

The stupa has a dome-shaped structure, a substantial mandala (round) base, a square tower or harmonica on top, and a spire with a golden pinnacle at the top. Prayer flags are used to decorate the dome, and the eyes and brows of the Buddha are painted on the four sides of the harmonica to represent his capacity to see all things. The 13 steps of the spire stand for the 13 steps on the road to enlightenment.

From Kathmandu, how do I go to Boudhnath Stupa?

Traveling and Accommodation Cost to Boudhnath Stupa.

Necessary Items to Entry Boudhnath Stupa

Best Time to Visit

Avoiding Certain Activities at Boudhnath Stupa

Things to Do and See in the Location

Conclusion - Boudhnath Stupa Ultimate Guide 

Being a thriving hub of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal, Boudhanath Stupa is flanked by several monasteries, prayer wheels, and lesser stupas. Every year, tens of thousands of visitors and pilgrims travel to Boudhanath Stupa to pray and pay reverence to the Buddha by walking around the stupa counterclockwise.

It is thought that the old Buddha Kassapa Buddha's relics are in the stupa, which was constructed in the fourteenth century. In addition, it is regarded as a UNESCO World Heritage site and a top travel destination in Nepal.

From Kathmandu, how do I go to Boudhnath Stupa?

From Kathmandu, there are numerous methods to get to Boudhanath Stupa:

  • Cab: From Kathmandu to Boudhanath Stupa, you can take a cab. Taxis are widely available throughout the city, and depending on traffic, the trip takes 20 to 30 minutes. Before boarding the taxi, haggle over the fee with the driver.
  • Public Bus: You can travel to Boudhanath Stupa by public bus from Kathmandu. It takes between 45 and an hour to travel directly to Boudha on bus routes 1 and 10. The travel time depends on traffic. Considering how busy buses might be, be ready for a tight fit.
  • Private automobile: To get to Boudhanath Stupa, you can also hire a private automobile with a driver. This choice provides additional comfort and convenience, and you can agree on the fee in advance with the driver.
  • Walking: From Kathmandu, you can also walk to Boudhanath Stupa if you're up for some exercise and want to explore the local culture. The duration of the walk ranges from 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your speed and the path you pick.

No matter which mode of transportation you choose, make sure to factor in traffic, especially during peak hours, and plan accordingly.

Traveling and Accommodation Cost to Boudhnath Stupa.

Depending on your means of transportation and the distance from your starting place, the cost of commuting to Boudhanath Stupa will vary. The following are some approximate expenditures for visiting Boudhanath Stupa:

  • Taxi: Depending on where you are in Kathmandu, a taxi ride to Boudhanath Stupa will cost you between NPR 500 and NPR 700 (about USD 4 and USD 6).
  • Public Bus: Depending on the bus route, a one-way bus fare from Kathmandu to Boudhanath Stupa costs roughly NPR 20 to NPR 30 (roughly USD 0.15 to USD 0.25).
  • Private Car: Depending on your negotiating skills, a round-trip private car rental from Kathmandu to Boudhanath Stupa will cost you between NPR 1,500 and NPR 2,000 (about USD 12 and USD 16).

Regarding lodging, Boudhanath Stupa is surrounded by numerous guesthouses, hotels, and hostels that accommodate tourists of different financial abilities. Here are some ballpark figures regarding lodging expenses:

  • Budget Accommodation: In the area of Boudhanath Stupa, guesthouses, and hostels with basic rooms and common bathrooms can be found for about NPR 500 to NPR 1,000 (about USD 4 to USD 8) per night.
  • Mid-Range Accommodation: For about NPR 2,000 to NPR 4,000 (about USD 16 to USD 32) per night, you may find hotels with spacious rooms and private toilets.
  • Luxurious Accommodation: Near the Boudhanath Stupa, there are a number of luxurious hotels that provide deluxe accommodations, exquisite cuisine, and other perks for about NPR 10,000 to NPR 20,000 (about USD 80 to USD 160) per night.

Overall, the cost of traveling and accommodation in Boudhanath Stupa is relatively affordable, and you can find options to fit your budget.

Necessary Items to Entry Boudhnath Stupa

In order to visit Boudhanath Stupa, you should bring the following items:

  • Bring some comfy shoes because Boudhanath Stupa is a sizable complex with lots of stairs and corridors. Remember to dress comfortably and in walking-friendly shoes.
  • When visiting Boudhanath Stupa, it's vital to wear modest clothing because it is a site of prayer. Both men and women should wear attire that covers their knees and their shoulders.
  • When entering the stupa, it is customary to wear a scarf or shawl. It can be wrapped around your neck to provide sun protection or used to cover your head as a symbol of respect.
  • Keep hydrated with a water bottle when touring the stupa. Bring your own reusable water bottle to fill up at the water fountains scattered throughout the facility.
  • Sunscreen and a hat are recommended because Boudhanath Stupa is situated in an open region where the sun can be very intense, particularly in the summer. In order to shield yourself from the sun's rays, pack sunscreen and a hat.
  • Camera: Boudhanath Stupa is a stunning and significant location, so you'll want to take pictures to preserve your recollections. Don't forget to bring your camera or smartphone.
  • Cash is always a smart idea because some vendors and shops near the stupa might not accept credit cards.

When you go, keep in mind to respect the stupa's cultural and religious significance and always get permission before taking pictures of people or holy items.

Best Time to Visit

The months of October through November and March through May are ideal for visiting Boudhanath Stupa. These months are comfortable for sightseeing and exploring because the weather is typically clear, dry, and mild.

The colorful Hindu festival of Tihar, also known as Diwali, which takes place in late October or early November, is another event you may see in October and November. The stupa is decorated with bright lights and ornaments at this time to create a festive ambiance.

You can take part in the vibrant Tibetan Buddhist holiday of Losar (Tibetan New Year), which takes place in February or March, from March to May. The stupa is decked with prayer flags at this time, and you can witness a large number of Tibetan pilgrims engaging in religious rites.

However, keep in mind that this time of year is also the busiest for tourists, so the stupa may become congested. Visit during the off-season, from June to September, if you want fewer tourists, but be ready for sporadic monsoon showers.

Avoiding Certain Activities at Boudhnath Stupa

In order to preserve the stupa's religious and cultural value, visitors to Boudhanath Stupa should follow certain protocols and refrain from engaging in specific activities. When visiting Boudhanath Stupa, avoid the following activities:

  • Climbing or touching the stupa is not permitted because it is a holy site. Doing so is disrespectful. Keep a respectful distance from the stupa and do not climb on it or touch it.
  • improper attire: Because Boudhanath Stupa is a holy site, visitors should wear modest clothing. Wearing attire that is too tight or revealing is not advised. Also, cover your shoulders and knees.
  • disrespecting religious items: There are numerous religious objects, like prayer flags and statues, throughout the stupa and its surroundings. Never insult these relics by touching them, and always get permission before taking pictures.
  • bringing non-vegetarian food: The Boudhanath Stupa is a revered site, and many people are vegan or vegetarian. Ensure that any food you bring is vegetarian because non-vegetarian food may be viewed as disrespectful.
  • making noise: The tranquil and meditative Boudhanath Stupa is a quiet site. Avoid making loud noises, such as shouting or playing loud music, as this can be inconsiderate to the religious environment and disruptive to other guests.
  • Smoking and drinking are not permitted inside or close to Boudhanath Stupa because they may be seen as disrespectful to the revered structure.

You can contribute to preserving Boudhanath Stupa's beauty and significance for future generations by treating it with respect for its religious and cultural value.

Things to Do and See in the Location

One of Nepal's most famous and significant Buddhist sites is Boudhanath Stupa. Here are some activities and sights you can enjoy while there:

  • Visit the Stupa: One of the largest stupas in the world, Boudhanath's main draw is its stupa. The prayer wheels are positioned around the stupa's base, and guests are welcome to stroll around it and turn them.
  • Observe the Monks: The monasteries that encircle the stupa in Boudhanath are home to a large number of monks. Visitors are welcome to see the monks as they go about their everyday lives, including meditation and prayer.
  • Shop for souvenirs: The area around Boudhanath is filled with stores that sell Tibetan and Nepali trinkets. Traditional handicrafts, prayer flags, thangkas, and other items can be purchased by tourists.
  • Visit the Monasteries: Near the stupa, there are a number of monasteries that are accessible to tourists. Shechen Monastery, Khawalung Monastery, and Chorten Monastery are a few of the noteworthy monasteries.
  • Discover the Local Cuisine: There are a lot of Tibetan and Nepali eateries in Boudhanath. Momos, thukpa, and butter tea are some of the typical Tibetan foods that tourists can sample.
  • Participate in Festivals: Throughout the year, Boudhanath holds a number of festivals, such as the Tibetan New Year (Losar), Buddha Jayanti (Buddha's birthday), and Lhosar. (New Year of Sherpas). These events offer wonderful chances to get a taste of the customs and culture of the area.
  • Take a Guided Tour: To learn more about the significance and history of the site, visitors can join guided tours of Boudhanath Stupa. These excursions can be scheduled at the stupa itself or with nearby tour companies.

These are only some of the activities and sights available at Boudhanath Stupa. There is always something new to learn about the stupa and its surroundings, which are full of culture and history.

Conclusion - Boudhnath Stupa Ultimate Guide 

In conclusion, Boudhanath Stupa should be on the itinerary of everyone visiting Nepal, especially those with a passion for Buddhist tradition and history. One of the biggest stupas in the world, it is encircled by colorful monasteries, vibrant prayer flags, and busy markets.

Knowing when to go, how to get there, where to stay, what to wear, and what activities to avoid to respect the site's religious and cultural significance will help you make the most of your trip. Visit the stupa, watch the monks, shop for souvenirs, sample the local cuisine, see the monasteries, go to festivals, and take guided tours are just a few of the best things to do and see at Boudhanath Stupa.

 

Overall, a trip to Boudhanath Stupa is a thoroughly engrossing cultural encounter that provides a window into the deep past and spiritual significance of this famous Nepali landmark.