In Nepal, you don’t need to travel far before you come across Buddhist monks. There are a number of monasteries in Kathmandu and in the countryside. Below are some of the main monasteries which you can visit:
- Bouddhanath Monastery (in Kathmandu)
- Swoyambhunath Stupa / Monastery (or Monkey Temple) (a short taxi ride west from the centre of Kathmandu)
- Kopan Monastery (near Boudhanath, on the outskirts of Kathmandu)
- Lumbini – the birth place of Lord Buddha is one of the most popular holiest pilgrimage places in the world. Lumbini is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (One day bus ride from Kathmandu)
- Tengboche Monastery (or Thyangboche Monastery), also known as Dawa Choling
Gompa – located a few hour’s walk from Namche Bazaar in the Everest region, in Khumjung in the Khumbu region. It is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery of the Sherpa community located at 3,867 metres.
Things to remember when visiting
- Take off your shoes and hat – you will notice everyone leaving them at the door
- Cover your shoulders and knees (with a scarf, jumper or long pants/skirt)
- Avoid taking photos during any ceremonies and ask before you take a photo
- Turn off your phone, remove headphones or earphones
- No smoking or chewing gum
- Don’t point or use your index finger to show a friend something
- Be quiet and respectful when inside any buildings
- Walk clockwise around the temple, mani stones or prayer flags
- Never touch, sit near, or climb on a Buddha statue or the raised platform
- Never point your feet at any Buddhist while sitting
- Be quiet and respectful when inside any buildings.
If in doubt, ask your guide or watch what other locals are doing.
Buda Budi Treks 