Guru Lhakhang Monastery
Nestled north of the Boudhanath Stupa within the stupa complex, Guru Lhakhang Monastery is named after the 8th-century Buddhist master Guru Rinpoche who introduced Buddhism to Tibet. Also known as the Tamang Gompa, the building is easily recognizable with its yellow exterior and gold accents. On the left of the main entryway is a huge prayer wheel embossed with mantras. Take some time to admire it and push the cylindrical wheel in a clockwise direction, as you make a kora.
To enter the main prayer hall, remove shoes at the entrance. Usually, the prayer hall sees monks in prayer, which includes reverberating chants and musical instruments. Soak in the experience and walk respectfully around rituals. Take some time to admire the intricate Tibetan murals on the wall and pay respect to the main statue of the Rinpoche. The upper floor of the monastery captivates visitors with the elaborate wall paintings, mostly Tibetan symbols. The floor also houses a glass-encased statue of Buddha. Climb to the roof for stunning views of Boudhanath Stupa, especially beautiful at night. Light a butter lamp in the small room. Let the rituals, chants, and symbols transport you to old Tibet. Guru Lhakhang Monastery lets you experience the living heritage of Tibet in the heart of Kathmandu.
Shechen Monastery
Shechen Monastery, one the six main Nyingma monasteries of Tibet, was destroyed in the late 1950’s. In exile, Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche transplanted the rich tradition of the original Shechen Monastery to a new home — a magnificent monastery near the great Stupa of Bodhnath, Nepal.
The walls of the main temple ( now destroyed in the 2015 earthquakes) were covered with frescoes depicting the history of Tibetan Buddhism and the important teachers from its four main schools. The monastery has over one hundred and fifty statues and one of the largest Tibetan libraries in the East.
Ceremonies are conducted throughout the year including drupchens (ceremonies lasting nine consecutive days and nights). In connection with these an annual two-day sacred dance festival is held in the monastery’s courtyard. Khyentse Yangsi Rinpoche, the reincarnation of Dilgo Khyentse, presides over all the major ceremonies.
Kopan Gompa
Nestled on a hilltop close to Boudha, Kopan Monastery offers a peaceful sanctuary from the city’s chaos. This Buddhist monastery belongs to the Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition (FPMT), providing visitors with a place for spiritual contemplation amid serene natural surroundings.
Since its establishment in 1970 by Lama Thubten Yeshe and Lama Zopa Rinpoche, Kopan has become renowned for its study and meditation courses. Monks, nuns, and laypeople alike come to deepen their practice, some staying for weeks or months immersed in Buddhist education. The monastery now can accommodate large numbers of students in dormitories and meditation halls.
In addition to religious education, Kopan serves the local community by providing schooling, childcare, and humanitarian aid. On Saturdays, the monastery opens its doors to the public, offering people the chance to get away from Kathmandu’s noise and connect spiritually. Visitors wander through tranquil gardens, receive blessings, or enjoy the valley views over a meal.
Whether staying for Buddhist training or just a short Saturday visit, Kopan Monastery provides an escape into a world of serenity. The atmosphere lingers in one’s mind, bringing a renewed sense of peace back into daily life.
Seto Gumba
