Boudhanath is essential for Nepalese people, either for tourism or religion. The word Boudhanath means Lord Buddha, symbolizing peace and tranquility. Nepal is the birthplace of Lord Buddha, who started Buddhism’s religion and living standards, which encourage peace, harmony, and friendship in the culture. This is why Nepalese people live in peace and harmony despite being home to many diverse cultures and traditions. Boudhanath is a religious place in the Kathmandu Valley and is included in the World Heritage Site. This blog will discuss the five best reasons to visit Boudhanth.
Boudhanath is always busy with thousands of local and foreign pilgrims who come to pay respect to Lord Buddha. Many trekkers or tourists also visit the place not for religious purposes but to admire its beauty and calmness. Boudhanath has a massive stupa of Buddha, which is the major highlight of the place and is among the largest stupas in South Asian Countries. So let’s get into it.
People from different countries came to visit Boudhanath, but they did not only come for themselves, as Nepal has lots to offer. People generally consider trekking to famous trekking trails like the Annapurna base camp trek, and after that, they explore UNESCO Sites, including Boudhantah.
5 Best Reasons to Visit Boudhanath
Here are the five best reasons to visit Boudhanath.
Tibetan Settlements
Boudhanath is an extraordinary place in Kathmandu as it highlights the significance of Buddhist culture and traditions. The Boudha culture in Nepal was gifted by the Tibetan people who migrated from China and settled in the Boudha area. Hence, even now, when you visit the Boudha area, you can distinguish the Tibetan settlements from the local Nepali settlements. Even before their migration, Boudha was already influenced by the Tibetan people as it was the trading place between the two countries. So, many areas around the heritage site show much Tibetan influence. Each small street that goes from the heritage site to a different part of the Boudha has a lot of Tibetan restaurants. Tibetan food is very different from Newari food, so take a break and try the tasty Tibetan dishes for a little while.
Visit Boudhanath Stupa
If you want a profoundly spiritual and majestic trek or tour around Kathmandu, visit the Boudhanath Stupa. People visit the Boudhanath Stupa to feel the peace and calm atmosphere
surrounding it. Many monks and gurus of Buddhist culture meditate around the Buddha stupa, which makes it a massive spectacle. The pilgrims softly whisper their prayers around the stupa, and the prayer wheels are also constantly spinning, making the atmosphere extremely beautiful. The massive Boudhanath Stupa is an attraction on its own, so many tourists click photos and try to learn about the history and significance of the stupa. Boudhanath stupa has played its part in promoting Nepal to the outer world.
Tibetan Culture Immersion
Kathmandu Valley is where many people of many cultures and traditions live together in peace and harmony. One of the essential cultures living in Kathmandu is the descendants of the Tibetans who migrated from Tibet during the war. When they settled around the Boudha area, they started promoting the culture and played a huge part in preserving it. Nowadays, the Boudhanath area is the hub for Tibetian culture, tradition, and rituals; many small to large Ghumbas, monasteries, etc., have been built to enhance and protect the culture even more. Young to small children dance in their local Tibetian dresses and sing their local cultural song, which always attracts tourists from other countries.
Stunning Panoramic Views
Another reason to visit Boudhanath is to indulge in and enjoy the spectacular panoramic views of the mountains, scenery, and skies—the surrounding view of the Boudhanath Stupa, the background of stunning mountains, and the Kathmandu valley. The calmer environment and the majestic views are significant attractions of the beautiful Boudhanath. Even if you have visited the place several times, you will still find it more attractive, but the view is spellbinding for the newcomers. So, if you haven’t visited Boudhanath, it’s time for that experience.
Shop Tibetian Souvenirs
The heritage site and its surrounding areas have a strong Tibetan influence. Many Tibetan restaurants along the small streets connect the heritage site to other parts of Boudha. If you’re curious about Tibetan cuisine, take a break and try some of their delicious dishes. The streets are bustling with the aroma of incense and the presence of Tibetan restaurants, adding to the lively atmosphere. Hence, you can shop here to take something unique that represents the ancient Tibetian culture, which is essential for the local people to give to your friends and family.
These are the five primary reasons you should visit Boudhanath. As mentioned above, Boudhanath is an exceptional site for touring and religious purposes. It is one of the most beautiful places in Nepal, which is why it has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage site. Still, it is also a significantly important place of culture and tradition for Buddhists.
So, if you still haven’t visited the special Tibetan place of Boudhanath and have enjoyed the views, the atmosphere, and the peacefulness, we recommend you do not wait and enjoy it today.
FAQs
What is the entrance fee of Boudhanath Stupa?
The entrance fee is only NRS 100 for SAARC nationals and approximately $NRS 400 for other foreign nationals.
Can tourists visit Boudhanath Stupa?
Yes, tourists can visit Boudhanath Stupa but must pay a certain fee. The fee differs for the SAARC nationals and other foreign nationals.
What is the best time of the day to visit Boudhanath Stupa?
The main reason tourists visit Boudhanath Stupa is to take amazing photos. Hence, the best time is either early morning or evening, when the light is appropriate.
What are the opening hours of the Boudhanath Stupa?
There isn’t an exact date for the opening hours of the Boudhanath Stupa from early morning to late evening. You have to check the schedule and book your tour.
Do you need any permits for Boudhanath Stupa?
You don’t need permits for the Boudhanath tour; you can just pay the entry fee.