Boudha is home to the Great Boudhanath Stupa. Boudha Stupa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site listed in 1979. The stupa dates back to 600 AD and was built by a Tibetan king. Its original title is Khasti Mahachaitya, which means “great stupa of the dew drops.” Because of its massive stupa, it is also the largest in Nepal and the rest of the world. Each of the four sides’ big eyes symbolizes peace, beauty, and giant eyes. The Charumati Stupa, which is located at Chabahil, is often called “Little Boudhanath.” The presence of the Ajima temple makes it a Hindu-Buddhist religious site. Ajima is revered by Hindus and Buddhists alike, often being cited as a Newar deity. As you explore, you’ll encounter many monks.
The stupa is on the ancient trade route from Tibet, which enters the Kathmandu valley. According to Buddhist tradition, it is believed that the remains of Kassapa Buddha are kept in this place. The stupa should be walked clockwise around, you will encounter many monks and other visitors. There are many myths surrounding its origin. You can also feed pigeons by buying food on the premises of Boudhanath Stupa there is a separate spot near the Ajima Temple for birds to pick up food given by visitors. You can also light a Dhoop batti to pray at the Ajima temple.
Places to visit at Boudha
Big Prayer Wheels
The prayer wheel is also known as the Mani wheel. Among the prayer wheels of Boudha, the Big Prayer Wheel is what attracts visitors from different sites. It is believed that the Big Prayer Wheel is rolled for forwarding messages to God. To count the number of rotations a small bell is placed which bells on the full completion of one round. On prayer wheels which are mounted in a fixed place is often written the mantra “Om Mani Padme Hum.”
Visiting the Taragaon Museum
Taragaon museum lies at the site of the Hyatt Regency Kathmandu, which is believed to be one of Nepal’s first modern buildings designed by Austrian architect Carl Pruscha. The Taragoan Museum itself is a preserved architectural building and displays 18th and 19th century photographs, drawings, plans, watercolors and their engravings, and other documentation. You can see greenery and many little squirrels running around from tree to tree—the perfect place to escape from the busy streets and crowds of Kathmandu to enjoy calmness and peace of mind.
Rooftop Cafes/Restaurants
Rooftop cafes have offered the most captivating places to see Boudhanath Stupa while devouring on different delicacies. Nowadays, teenagers are pulled in to drink bubble tea at Boudhanath Stupa while watching the stupa and strolling around. Almost all the buildings surrounding the stupa have cafes or restaurants, making it a perfect place for international tourists to enjoy the beauty of the stupa while enjoying local or Tibetan food.
Visit Ghyolisang Peace Park & Pond (Buddha Peace Park)
Buddha Peace Park is also known as Ghyoilisang Peace Park. Amid the construction of Boudhanath Stupa, the area of this park was converted into a pond that is considered sacred. This park was renovated with the cooperation of many national and international foundations. Be sure to walk clockwise around the park.
Evening walk Boudhanath Stupa
Evening time is also the rush hour and most people visit here. It is also the peak time when most of the locals come here to walk and relax. As it gets darker, you’ll be able to see the astounding night view of the Stupa. Well-lit you’ll be amazed by the stunning night view of Stupa.
Visit monasteries
One of the easiest monasteries, Guru Lakhang Monastery is right next to the main entrance and opposite Ajima Harati Shrine. Another well-known monastery among international tourists is Kapan Monasteries, which lies approximately 3 km further away from the premises of Boudhanath Stupa. You can visit numerous monasteries on the streets of Boudha.
Roaming around Phulbari Street
If you don’t know the streets of Phulbari, you can get lost but it can be fun if you know the directions that lead to the many monasteries, eateries, lodgings, and Buddhist shops. Traveling through the streets, you can see traditional Thangka art that has been practiced for decades. Each and every Thangka differs in its spiritual values. Individuals now hang them in their homes for decoration. If you’re willing to try the best of Tibetan cuisine, Boudha is the place to be, with plenty of dishes worth trying. The most popular dishes are Thukpa, Laughing, and Thenduk.
