No matter who you are or where you’re from, no matter how much you’re in rush, there’s something about this place that makes you slow down and take a deep breath to calm down. Walking around Boudhanath Stupa feels like stepping into a living, breathing prayer. The group of people circling the stupa, spinning prayer wheels as they murmur mantras, create an environment where you want to get lost in. The gentle rustle of prayer flags above and the warm, flickering light from butter lamps make it easy to lose yourself in the rhythm of this place. It doesn’t matter if you’re a local or a curious traveler, there’s a sense of connection here that feels universal, as if the stupa’s energy has room for everyone.
But Boudhanath isn’t just about quiet spirituality; it’s also full of life and color. The monasteries surrounding the stupa are open to those who want to explore more deeply. Step inside one, and you might catch monks chanting in a deep, resonant hum or see art so amazing, you’ll wonder how long it took to paint just one corner of it. Outside, the shops are an adventure of their own. You’ll find everything from prayer beads to incense to scarves so soft you’ll want to wrap yourself in them and never leave.
Now, let’s talk food. If you’re not eating at a rooftop café overlooking the stupa, are you even doing Boudha right? Imagine biting into freshly steamed momo or sipping on butter tea while the golden light of sunset hits the stupa just right. This might be one of the best experiences to have in Nepal!
In conclusion if Boudhanath is not on your list when you come to Nepal, then we assure you that the list will never feel fulfilling, so when you visit Nepal, make sure you visit this place!
Photo Credit-Jonny James,Danylo Istominov,Rojan Manandhar,Wonderlane.