Boudhanath

Boudhanath is one of the largest Buddhist stupas in Asia and one of the main sanctuaries in Nepal. Located in the Kathmandu Valley, it is also known as Buddha Stupa.

The name Boudhanath refers to a large stupa situated east of the city of Kathmandu. The monument is one of the most important spiritual centers of Buddhism in Nepal. It is sometimes called Buddha Stupa, a simplified form commonly used in everyday and tourist contexts.

The present structure probably dates from the 15th or 16th century, although local traditions place the foundation of the sanctuary around the 5th century, during the early kingdoms of the valley. Like many religious monuments in the region, it has been rebuilt and restored several times throughout its history.

The stupa follows traditional Buddhist architectural principles. It consists of a large white dome symbolizing the world, topped by a square tower bearing the eyes of the Buddha, and a golden spire representing the stages on the path to enlightenment. Around the monument, a wide circular path allows devotees to perform ritual circumambulation.

Since the arrival of Tibetan refugees in Nepal during the 20th century, Boudhanath has become one of the main centers of Tibetan Buddhism outside Tibet. Numerous monasteries and religious schools have been established around the stupa, turning the area into an important spiritual and cultural center.

The site forms part of the group of monuments in the Kathmandu Valley inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.