Buddhist Sites in Nepal

Nepal, being the birthplace of Buddha, is an important center for the Buddhists. The Buddhist monasteries, Stupas and pagodas are scattered all around the country. These shrines have vivid architectures and have distinct traditions of their own. The most remarkable among these monasteries is Boudhnath Stupa in Kathmandu. This Stupa is very popular among the followers of both Hinyana and Mahayana sects of Buddhism. The place witnesses large crowd on festivals like Buddha Jayanti and Maha Nirvana. Another important shrine in Kathmandu is Swambhunath Stupa. This Stupa is in the outskirts of Kathmandu and attracts followers from both Buddhism and Hinduism. The place has a distinct architecture that is heavily influenced with Tibetan style of architecture.

Machhendranath Stupa in downtown Kathmandu is popular among the followers of Hinyana sect of Buddhism. Though this place is not restricted to the followers of a particular community, its popularity among the Hinyana Buddhists is unparallel. Outside Kathmandu, the most popular Shrine is Maha-Buddha in Lalitpur. The Maha Buddha Stupa is heavily influenced by the ancient Indian architectures. The place is a replica of the Bodh Gaya temple in Bihar. The images that have been painted on the walls of this shrine are magnificent. The site has lost much of its charm lately but is unparallel in terms of architecture.

The four Ashoka Stupas of Lalitpur that is also known as Patan are the masterpieces of medieval architecture. These Stupas stand at the four corner of the town and have distinct designs. These Stupas have been erected in different centuries but have continuity in the design pattern. Apart from that, the Muktinath Stupa in Jomsom is a must visit heritage site. The structure stands at a height of nearly 4000 meters and is accessible in fair weather only. The place is considered as one among the 24 Tantrism sites in the world. The place is an abode of many hermits who come from places as far as Tibet and Southern India.