Must Visit Buddhist Heritage Sites in Nepal
Must Visit Buddhist Heritage Sites in Nepal
Lord Buddha was born in Nepal; therefore, Nepal is where Buddhism was born. Buddhism is a religion, also a philosophy; it is rather described as a “way of life” or “a spiritual tradition”.
Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha) was the founder of Buddhism, who was born in Lumbini, achieved Nirvana or enlightenment in Bodh Gaya, taught his first Dharma (cosmic law and order) in Sarnath, and received Parinirvana (nirvana after death) after his demise in Kushinagar, which makes these destinations the most significant pilgrimage sites for Buddhist followers in the world.
Likewise, Karma (action or doing) and reincarnation are highly believed in Buddhism. There are three main sects with several sub-sects of Buddhism, which are Theravada Buddhism, Mahayana Buddhism, and Vajrayana Buddhism.
The main teachings of Buddhism are the Four Noble Truths, which are the truth of suffering, the truth of the cause of suffering, the truth of the end of suffering, and the truth of the path that leads to the end of suffering.
The Three Universal Truths: Everything is impermanent and changing, impermanence leads to suffering and making life imperfect, and the self is not personal and unchanging.
Similarly, the Noble Eightfold Path states the right view, right resolve, right speech, right conduct, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, and right samadhi. The rules that one must follow in this religion refrain from harming living beings, refrain from sexual misbehavior, refrain from taking that which is not freely given, and refrain from wrong speech, like lying, indolent babble, and immoral dialogue.
About 10% population practices Buddhism in the world, and there are numerous countries following Buddhism on Earth, whether it is an entire nation or a small community, but Buddhism is spread all over the world in the present.
The main countries that practice Buddhism are in Asia, like:
Nepal
Tibet
Japan
Singapore
South Korea
Taiwan
Malaysia
Macau
China
Vietnam
Northern Mariana Islands
Thailand
Myanmar
Bhutan
Sri Lanka
Laos, Mongolia
Cambodia.
But Buddhism is surely extended to some parts of Europe, America, Australia, and other continents. In like manner, Nepal is a secular state, and most of the Nepalese follow Hinduism, though Buddhism is prevailing in Nepal. Even though we Nepalese proudly state that “Buddha was born in Nepal”, Buddhism started in Nepal during the Kirant Dynasty and has been extending since the rule of Emperor Ashoka through Indian and Tibetan proselytizers.
Moreover, to date, there are thousands of Buddhist shrines in Nepal, from ancient to new monuments, UNESCO Listed World Heritage Sites, big beautiful monasteries to small stupas, Chortens/chaityas and caves, and among which it is believed that there are still undiscovered shrines here, especially in the Himalayan region.
Below are given the must-visit Buddhist destinations/shrines for Buddhist pilgrims as well as travel enthusiasts, as these places provide you positivity, refreshment, opportunity to learn and experience Buddhist culture, and peace from within.
Bouddhanath Stupa
Bouddhanath Stupa is the largest Buddhist shrine in Nepal. It is also a UNESCO listed World Heritage site. Located near the center of Kathmandu, this stupa is a must-visit place once you are in Nepal. The monastery is also the most important Tibetan monument outside Tibet. A visit to Bouddhanath Stupa is the best option for those who are enthusiastic to learn and experience Tibetan Buddhism, history, and culture.
This stupa is said to have been built during the 5th century and has been renovated several times over the centuries. The present stupa was built after the massive 2015 earthquake in Nepal. Every portion of this beautiful stupa represents symbolic significance. The base, dome, square harmika, spire, and pinnacle represent the five elements.
The 13-level-tall golden spire represents the 13 levels you will have to go through to achieve Nirvana. The 4 pairs of eyes of Lord Buddha mean that the god is watching us, and the wiggly nose, which symbolizes 1 in the Nepalese language, means equality among all.
Likewise, the best view of this world’s largest circular pagoda, seen from the top it looks like a Mandala, which seems to look even more mesmerizing at night due to all the fairy lights and butter lamps. The monument is covered all the way 360 degrees by praying wheels, which spin and revolve, making wishes clockwise, and there are many small Chortens (stupas) outside the main dome.
At the entrance of the main shrine, there are two monuments of warriors on an elephant guarding the stupa. You will get to see many monks and pilgrims praying and chanting Mantras, as well as there are many souvenir shops and restaurants in the area. Revolve around the shrine, spinning praying wheels, light a butter lamp, and pray to the Lord; we assure you will feel calm and positive energy will envelop you and the visit to the Bouddhanath Stupa.
Swayambhunath Temple
Swayambhunath Temple, which means “self-occurring” as its name states, is a temple believed to be self-risen. According to legends, Kathmandu Valley used to be a lake, and when Manjushree visited, he saw a beautiful lotus with a large illusion of Buddha.
He plucked the flower, then immediately a huge stupa appeared, which was named Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple. Located on the Norwest side of the valley, on top of a hillock, this monastery is truly a piece of wonder. Since the stupa is located at the top of a hill, the city view seen from the top is mesmerizing.
There are 365 steps to reach the main temple, which indicates every day of the year. There are many monuments of Lord Buddha and other pieces of art that reflect Buddhism. At the entrance, there are two lions guarding the temple. After climbing all the way up, there is a huge “Vajra” right in front of the main stupa. The main stupa has a white Dome somewhat the structure is somewhat similar to the Bouddhanath Stupa.
The 13-level-tall golden spire represents the 13 levels you will have to go through to achieve Nirvana. The 4 pairs of eyes of Lord Buddha mean that the god is watching us, and the wiggly nose, which symbolizes 1 in the Nepalese language, means equality among all. Similarly, this place not only represents cultural significance but also the landscape view, and the alluring nature it has will astonish you.
The monuments there, like the sleeping Buddha, the museum, and many small Chortens, will amaze you. Apart from the monastery, there is a Saraswoti Temple and a Monk School just behind the Monkey Temple. This temple has beautiful architecture, and it is believed that if you light up a butter lamp and pray for being able to study with a pure heart, the wish is granted. This temple is revered by Lord Saraswati, who is the goddess of education.
This UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site is a must-visit Buddhist shrine, as you will not only learn about Buddhism but also experience the beautiful landscape, encounter monks as well as monkeys (this is why the shrine is called Monkey Temple), which are completely harmless unless you tease them.
Check out our Explore Nepal Tour of 12 Days to experience the Heritage Sites of Kathmandu.
Namobuddha Monastery
Namobuddha Monastery is one of the most important and sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world. This temple is located 38 kilometers east of Kathmandu in the Kavre district, situated on top of a hill.
Namobuddha is very popular for its cultural significance as well as the peaceful environment blessed by Mother Nature. According to the legends, 6000 years ago, there was a King named Maharath who ruled in Panauti. He had three sons named Dasyembo, Lashyembo, and Mahasatwo, also known as Ngingdui Tshenpo or Bodhisatwo. His youngest son, Mahasatwo, is the previous life of Lord Buddha.
One day, the three princes went hunting on the hill of Namobuddha. While they were hunting, the princes saw a tigress that was devouring her just-born cubs due to starvation. He sent his elder brothers to search for prey, but they took a long time and didn’t find any flesh to feed the tigress. Then, the youngest prince offered the tigress his own body, believing that it would be a sin if a mother ate her own child. After he performed such a huge sacrifice, it is believed that the gods offered a flower shower to his reminisces.
Likewise, the king made a Chaitya in remembrance of his son on the land where his son's reminisces were buried. This shrine has been renovated many times after that, including by Lord Buddha himself. Similarly, this place is very peaceful and perfect for those who are interested in meditation or learning Buddhism.
Namobuddha, also known as Thrangu Tashi Monastery, is also a Buddhist school for monks, so visiting here will provide you with the opportunity to interact with the monks. This enormous, beautiful monastery reflects Buddhist culture as well, and the landscape here will make the trip worth visiting.
The panoramic view of the Himalayas, including Mt. Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Mt. Langtang, Mt. Everest, and many others have seen from the top will astonish you. This trip is perfect for the enthusiast who is keen on Buddhism, loves to meditate, and seeks to travel somewhere far from the pollution and hustle and bustle of the city.
Lumbini
The birthplace of the founder of Buddhism, the beautiful and peaceful Lumbini, is one of the four main Buddhist pilgrimage sites. Located 203 kilometers west of Kathmandu Valley, Lumbini is a big, mesmerizing garden in the Rupandehi District of Nepal.
The main temple located here is the Mayadevi Temple. This shrine is a sort of museum where the ancient relics are preserved and protected which including the exact place where Lord Buddha was born.
As myths state, Mayadevi (Buddha’s mother) was traveling from her house in Kapilvastu to her parents’ home in Devadaha. She was on her way when she felt like she was going into labor at the garden of Lumbini, which was later named Mayadevi Garden.
Queen Mayadevi bathed in the Puskarini pond before she gave birth. She gave birth to Siddhartha Gautama under a bodhi tree, and he was cleansed in the same Puskarini pond by two dragons. Legends believe that immediately after his birth, Siddhartha Gautama said, “This is my last rebirth,” and took seven steps under which the lotus flower bloomed.
Likewise, the Queen died seven days after his birth, and then his foster mother became his aunt Mahaprajapati (Mayadevi’s younger sister).
Lumbini, which means lovely, is perfectly eloquent in its name, having monasteries in each and every sight with the perfect combination of natural beauty. This place is a truly must-visit place not only for enthusiasts of Buddhism but also for those who love meditation and are keen to visit a peaceful and gorgeous destination.
Apart from the Mayadevi Temple, there are many exquisite places to visit in Lumbini, like the Eternal Peace Flame, which glows 24 hours every single day. It was brought from the US as a celebration of International Peace Year and is the symbol of peace and fraternity in the world.
Likewise, many countries have built Buddhist temples dedicated to Lord Buddha in the area, which are all unique and gorgeous, like the Myanmar Golden Monastery, Royal Thai Monastery, Dae Sung Shakya (Korean Temple), and many others. Similarly, the World Peace Pagoda is another must-visit location if you are in Lumbini.
Kopan Monastery
Located in the outskirts of Kathmandu Valley, on top of Kopan hill, situated north of Boudhanath, Kopan Monastery is a mesmerizing Tibetan Buddhist monastery.
This stupa was founded by the Late Lama Thubten Yeshe during the 1970s. Home to 360 monks, it was previously used to be home to an astrologer to the King of Nepal. Kopan Gumba is a Gelung monastery, which means a school to teach and learn Buddhism; the monks aged 7 to 60 years old come to this monastery from all over the world.
As said by Lama Zopa Rinpoche, “The places on this earth where you can receive education in Lama Tsongkhapa’s pure teaching are very few. Therefore, this monastery is considered very precious”.
The people wanting to learn Tibetan Buddhism in the Kopan Monastery should inform us in advance so that the seats can be reserved and secured. Likewise, the significance of the shrine is Lord Buddha’s mind, as it looks like Buddha, the top is similar to his crown, the four pairs of eyes in four directions, and the nose-shaped 1 that symbolizes unity among all, and the steps represent the path to enlightenment, and the dome is similar to every other Buddhist stupa.
This stupa is one of the most important and beautiful stupas in the world. It is not only popular for its cultural significance and architecture but also for the spectacular landscape. There is a big, gorgeous garden with fountains and lots of flowers and plants, covered wholly with Tibetan praying flags and praying wheels, as well as the area is full of small stupas or Chortens signifying the body of an enlightened being.
You could either drive or hike through the lush green forests to visit the shrine. Similarly, the view of the landscape, Kathmandu valley, and the panoramic Himalayan view, including the scene of Mt. Langtang, Mt. Gauri Shankar, Mt. Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and many others seen after reaching the monastery, is spectacular.
In addition, there is also a nunnery named Kopan nunnery, which is also absolutely stunning as it was founded by the late Lama Thubten Yeshe too, very nearby to the Kopan monastery, and you could visit here too.
This is a must-visit destination for meditation lovers and those who wish to learn Mahayana Buddhism, as well as nature and culture lovers, because what could be better than spinning the prayer wheels, meditating, and making prayers in a beautiful place, listening to the mantras “Om Mane Padme Hum” being chanted by the monks.
Tengboche Monastery
Tengboche Monastery, also known as Thyangboche Monastery or Dawa Choling Gompa, is a unique, picturesque, and most significant and largest monastery in the Khumbu region.
Situated in the lap of the world’s highest mountains at an altitude of 3,876m above sea level, amidst the lush pine, rhododendron, and azalea forest, and Sagarmatha National Park (A UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site), this stupa has the most unique features, contrary to other gumbas.
Tengboche Monastery is located in the beautiful Tengboche village in Khumjung of the Khumbu region, which was built in 1916 by Lama Gulu and has been renovated many times since then. This stupa is the first Nyingmapa monastery where Vajrayana Buddhism is studied and practiced, which is one of the many things that make this shrine unique.
Also, within the area, a nunnery is situated for both sexes. Since the monastery falls on the way of many treks, travelers visit the stupa and receive blessings from the residing Rinpoche for a successful trek.
Likewise, you could also encounter wildlife:
Himalayan Monal
Musk Deer
Himalayan Black Bear
and other animals,
The backdrop view of:
Mt. Everest,
Mt. Ama Dablam
Mt. Lhotse
Mt. Nuptse
Mt. Tawache
Mt. Thamserku seen from the stupa is absolutely spellbinding.
Everest viewpoint trek from Himalayan Trekkers takes you to Tengboche Monastery, experience it first hand.
Located in a beautiful environment with having stunning structure, covered with praying flags, praying wheels, and mani stones, this beautiful gompa is a must-visit Buddhist shrine in the world, especially for those who are fervent to learn Vajrayana Buddhism.
Likewise, the main festival celebrated here is the Mani Rimdu Festival, which is basically a festival celebrated by Sherpas on the 10th lunar month of the Tibetan calendar to rejoice the founding of Buddhism by Guru Rinpoche Padmasambhava by gathering and celebrating by singing, dancing, and performing rituals.
This shrine is considered a very important pilgrimage site, and it is strongly believed that if you visit the monastery with a pure heart, light butter lamps, and revolve the praying wheels, then it will indeed provide your soul with inner peace and grant you the inner power of triumph for anything in life.
Pharping
Pharping is a small Newari town located 16km southwest of Kathmandu, also known as Phamting or Yanglesho. This place is often referred to as a town of monasteries, as it has several shrines, like:
Neydo Tashi Chöling Monastery
Benchen Sungrab Gyunpel Khang
Rigon Tashi Choeling Monastery
But among them, Asura Cave and Yanglesho Cave are the most popular ones, as these caves are said to be where Guru Padmasambhava Rinpoche attained enlightenment.
The follower of Tibetan Buddhism believes that Pharping is as holy as Bodhgaya and Lumbini. The Gorakhnath Temple is taken as the main entrance to the Asura cave, and the Yanglesho cave is situated on the left side of the Seshnarayan Temple.
These two caves have a distance of about 500m apart. Asura Cave, also known as Upper Yanglesho Cave, is located on the upper part of the hill, and Yanglesho Cave, also known as Lower Yanglesho Cave, is located on the lower part of the hill.
There is a very narrow tunnel that connects these two caves, from which Guru Padmasambhava used to travel. These caves are said to be self-risen. Likewise, inside the Asura cave, there are three images of Guru Rinpoche in the middle, Yangdak Heruka to his right, and Vajrakilaya to his left.
Guru Padmasambhava practiced Vajrayogini Sadhana (meditation) here 2000 years ago, as well as received enlightenment in this cave. There is also a handprint of Guru Padmasambhava inside the cave, and according to mythology, this handprint was made by him to show that he received enlightenment in the cave.
Likewise, the crack in the ceiling of the cave is said to have occurred after Guru Padmasambhava attained enlightenment; he came out, cracking the ceiling of the cave. In addition, the Vajrayana Buddhism followers believe that pilgrims shall visit Asura cave, Yanglesho cave, and Vajrayogini Temple, which is a temple revered to Vajrayogini (a Buddhist deity), to receive the sacred blessing of Vajrayana Buddhism deities.
Likewise, Chokyi Nyima Rinpoche leads several seminars and retreats every year in this monastery. Pharping, a holy place where Guru Padmasambhava Rinpoche attained the level of a Mahamudra Vidyadhara is a very significant and must-visit destination and not only for Vajrayana Buddhism but also to experience its beautiful landscape, lush green forests rich in flora and fauna, the local town as well as a spellbinding panoramic view of the Himalayas including Mt. Langtang, Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Gauri Shankar, and others.
Mustang
Mustang, the last nomadic forbidden valley, is a mystical place located in the Trans Himalayan Region, which is known as the desert of Nepal. Mustang means "Plain of Aspiration," which is divided into two regions: Upper Mustang, also known as Lo, and Lower Mustang, simply known as Mustang.
This cabalistic land is popular for having the most eccentric features, distinctive to any place in the world, like unique geography, abundant caves, and numerous monasteries. Similarly, this place is also known as “the Tibet of Nepal”.
This land is a very important Buddhist pilgrimage site, as it is rich in Buddhist shrines that include myriad caves and stupas. Likewise, it is said that there are around 1000 caves in Mustang, discovered and undiscovered, among which are monasteries, hiding places made by inhabitants during war, places to keep the dead body, and homes of locals, differing throughout the centuries, which are still being discovered.
Talking about the caves and monasteries, there are many popular and renowned monasteries, which are given below:
Lo Gekar monastery is the oldest monastery in Upper Mustang, which was founded by Guru Padmasambhava Rinpoche, and this shrine is where Tibetan Buddhism was officially started.
Jampa Lhakhang is the oldest Shakya monastery, which was built during the 14th century. This gompa is a unique three-storied stupa that reflects the rich culture of Lo Manthang via 108 different-shaped and sized paintings of gold and silver, turquoise, coral, and gemstones.
Thubchen Gompa is a 15-century-old monastery full of elegant paintings of Buddhist guardians on walls and roofs that reflect Buddhist culture. It is a typical stupa built of mud and brick located in Lo Manthang.
Ghar Gumba was built in the 8th century by Guru Padmasambhava Rinpoche and is a very important Buddhist temple located at an elevation of 3,950. It is one of the oldest temples in Upper Mustang and not only has cultural significance but is also rich in flora and fauna.
Namgyal Monastery is the largest monastery in Mustang, situated on top of a rocky, sandy hill. It was found during the 15th century and reflects Shakya Buddhism, which can be acknowledged by the gray stripes outside that characterize the strength of Lord Buddha’s teaching, wisdom, and compassion.
Charang Monastery was built by Bsum Grub Dorje in the 16th century AD. It is a very significant Gelung sect monastery located at an elevation of 35560 m above sea level. The inner walls of the shrine are painted with murals that are revered to the Medicine Buddha Mandala deities.
Kag Chode Thupten Samphel Ling Gompa, which means "monastery of the place to stop and develop concentration on the teachings of Lord Buddha", is also known as Kagbeni Monastery and Red Gompa, as it is located in Kagbeni. This stupa is one of the most important Shakya Pa monasteries, which was founded in 1429 AD.
Jwala Mai is also known as Salambar Dolamebar Gompa or Mebar Lhakhang Gompa, is a fire gompa that is extracted from Himalayan water resources, which has natural gas present, which shows water burning. This eternal flame represents a union between two opposite elements and is holy for both Buddhism and Hinduism.
Marpha Monastery is also known as Tashi Lha Khang Gompa or Samteling Gompa, which was built around 200 years ago and belongs to the Karma Pa sect of Buddhism. This monastery, located in Marpha, is revered to Amitabha, Vajrapani, Avalokiteśvara, and Guru Padmasambhava Rinpoche.
Luri Gompa is a cave monastery that belongs to the Nyingma-Kargyupa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Inside the gompa, there are Chortens and statues of Buddhist deities, and this monastery is incredibly beautiful for a cave with mandala paintings all over the ceiling and paintings and Thangkas reflecting Nyingma Pa Buddhism, as well as a big bell with paintings.
Nyiphuk Cave Monastery is the largest cave monastery in Upper Mustang. It is also known as Nyphu Gompa and Lo Nifu Gumba, which is a Nyingma Pa sect Buddhist monastery, beautifully painted, and consists of religious belongings.
Chungsi Cave, also known as Rangchung Cave, is a naturally built, significant Buddhist shrine in Upper Mustang. It is believed that Guru Padmasambhava Rinpoche meditated here during the 8th century. On the walls of the gompa, there are many paintings of Deities and self-risen monuments of Buddhist Gods and Goddesses.
Tashi Chhoeling Gompa is a 571-year-old monastery located in Ghiling, which was founded by Lhobo Ghenchen Lama. This gumba is a Sakya Pa monastery, a specialized Ngor Pa sub-Sect of the Sakya Pa sect. Rituals like Mandala Puja, Dhukpa Chesi, Kangso Chyachchha, Ketor Puja, Molam, Kangso Puja, etc, are performed in this monastery.
Lo Geme Shad Drup Darkeling Gompa is located in Ghami, which was built in 1414 AD by Sonama Lodo. This stupa belongs to the Sakya Pa sect and consists of statues of Buddha, Ngor Chhen Kunga Sangpo, Buddha Pravamandal, Sakyamuni, Bajra Satwa Dorjesemba, and Midhukpa.
Lo-Ghyakar Gompa is a Ngingpa sect stupa that dates back 1200 years. This monastery is located near Manang, which is beautifully constructed with paintings and statues of Buddhist deities.
Chhyode Gompa, Lomanthang, is a Sakya Pa sect monastery that was established in 1757 AD. Inside the stupa, there are beautiful paintings and Thangkas as well as the statues of Dorje Sonnu, Dorje Dhhang, and Sange Thukpa.
Chhujung Gompa is located in Lo Manthang and belongs to the Sakya Pa sect. This stupa is truly picturesque and very popular because a grand annual festival of Mustang's Tiji Festival also takes place in this Buddhist Temple.
Thukten Dharkelin Gompa is a 1000-year-old Buddhist shrine revered by Guru Rinpoche, Thuwa Jhyatoma, Jujhan Dhyoma, and Dhaknema. It is located in Namgyal and belongs to the Ngor Pa sub-sect of the Sakya Pa sect, and religious rituals such as Keto Puja, Kumari Puja, and Bakchhyum are performed here.
Garghu Dhejing Chhyoling Gompa is a monastery located in Chhoser that belongs to the Nyingma Pa sect of Buddhism. It is believed that the footprint of Guru Padmasambhava Rinpoche is printed on a stone in the stupa, which makes it more sacred. This gumba is 500 years old and is devoted to Guru Rinpoche, Dorje Chhyang, Chhewang Lhindu, and Seiji Shhyamjo.
Humla
Humla is often known as the hidden gem of Nepal, is a remote district of Nepal, yet its spectacular natural beauty and unique cultural diversity, which includes Hinduism, Buddhism, Bon, and Animism, attract people. It is located in the northwest region of Nepal, which borders Tibet.
Humla is a significant religious site for both Hindus and Buddhists. This beautiful destination, far from modernization, is truly a beautiful creation of Mother Nature that consists of many crystal-clear lakes and rivers, the all-mighty Himalayas, and is rich in Buddhist monasteries.
Below are some monasteries of Humla: -
Ralling Gompa is the oldest and most significant monastery in Humla, located at the foot of the Himalayas. It belongs to the Nyingmapa sect of Buddhism and is revered by Guru Padmasambhava Rinpoche. Likewise, one of the most popular festivals of Tibetans, “The Saga Dawa Festival,” is also celebrated here.
Halji Renchiled Gumba is a 1000-year-old Buddhist monastery that belongs to the Kargyupa sect. This shrine is a two-storied stupa with monuments and paintings of Buddhist gods and goddesses, and is of great importance to locals.
Zang Phelgye Ling Monastery is one of the three monasteries of Limi Valley. It is a Tibetan Mahayana Buddhism monastery that was built during the 13th century.
Weltse Rinchen Ling monastery is the central monastery of the three monasteries in Limi. It was established during the 10th century by Rinchen Sangpo and belongs to the Sakya Pa sect of Buddhism.
Til Kunzom Dhongag Choling is a monastery built in the 12th century, which is one of three stupas in Limi Valley. The main monument of this shrine is a statue of Shakyamuni Buddha called the Speaking Statue (Gsung Byon Ma). It is believed that whenever a widespread disease occurs in Limi, the monument takes the illness itself.
Namkha Khyung Dzong is one of the main Nyingma monasteries in the world. This Buddhist shrine was built in 1906 AD. This shrine is also known as Yalbang Monastery and is the largest monastery in Humla, where over 500 monks live here learning and teaching Buddhism.
Besides these monasteries, there are several gorgeous Buddhist shrines in the Humla region of Nepal, like Yansi Monastery, Chimik Gumba, Nyotad Gumba, Kunjuma Gumba, Tungar Chyojong Gumba, Tsang Dojam, and others that have a huge importance in Buddhism and are sacred for Buddhist pilgrimages.
Dolpo
Dolpo is located in the mid-western part of Nepal and is one of the most remote regions of Nepal. Dolpo is really in another world, far from modernization, where natural beauty enjoys its true form and diverse culture is intact and preserved. Dolpo is very important for Buddhists. According to legends, Dolpo is a Ba-Yul (Hidden Land) which was explored by Guru Rinpoche. Drutup Yeshe was the one who first introduced Buddhism among the people of the Dolpo valley.
There are several Buddhist stupas here and some important shrines, and given below:
Ribo Bhumpa Monastery is a Nyingma Pa sect stupa that was founded more than a thousand years ago by Jigdre Nyima Gyaltsen and Lama Tenzin Targye. It is located in Dho Tarap Village of Dolpo and is constructed in the shape of a vase known as Bumpa or Bhumpa, which is one of the eight sacred symbols of Buddhism.
Yangtsher Gompa is a beautiful monastery located in Nisal Village, Upper Dolpo. This stupa is the oldest monastery in Dolpo, which belongs to the Nyingma Pa sect and was built by Choegyal Pasang and Sonam Lodro. There are many monuments of several Buddhist deities, and next to the main shrine, a room with nine stupas of the eight healing Buddhas is found, which makes the gumba unique.
Shey Gompa is a majestic monastery located at the base of Crystal Mountain. This stupa is the first Kagyupa sect monastery, which was founded during the 11th century by Lama Ten-szin-Ra-Pa.
Samling Gompa is a 900-year-old monastery that is the most important and oldest Bon monastery. It is also known as Yangton Gompa and was built by Gyaltsen Rinchen.
Thasung Tsoling Monastery is a significant Bon Monastery that was built during the 15th century by Trenton Tsewang Tsultrim. This Buddhist shrine is located in Tso village at the bank of Phoksundo Lake (the deepest lake in the world).
Komache Gompa belongs to the Kagyupa sect of Buddhism. This stupa is located in the left corner of Shey village on the base of Crystal Mountain. It was built by Druptop Singhe Yeshe, and it is believed that his footprint is marked on the site.
Tsakang Gompa is situated on the foothill of Crystal Mountain, in the left corner of Shey village, built into cliffs. This monastery is the perfect option for the monks to meditate, especially for the Lamas of Shey village.
Apart from these majestic Buddhist shrines, there are many other popular and least recognized monasteries, but very idiosyncratic and rich in beauty and well as culture. Dedhen Samtenling monastery, one of the oldest Bon monasteries in the world, and Yangjer Monastery, one of the richest monasteries in Nepal.
Likewise, Sipchok Dho Tarap Dedhen Phuntsokling Bon Monastery, Phongdrol Phuntsokling Tsharka Bon Monastery, Thongdrol Phuntsokling Monastery, Ripuba Gompa, and Yungdung Sukchelling Gompa are a few other marvelous stupas in the Dolpo region.
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