Boudhanath Stupa: A Visitor's Guide

Boudhanath is one of the largest stupas in the world and the heart of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. It sits on the old trade route to Tibet, about 7 km north-east of central Kathmandu, and since the 1960s the streets around it have become home to a large Tibetan community and dozens of monasteries.

The kora

Pilgrims walk around the stupa clockwise, spinning the prayer wheels set into its base and counting their prayer beads as they go. Do join them! Just walk clockwise, at their pace, and you'll see the whole square. Early morning and late afternoon are the busiest times, and they have by far the best atmosphere.

What to see

• The great white dome and the painted eyes of the Buddha on the gilded tower, with prayer flags strung from the very top.
• The upper terraces of the stupa, which you're allowed to climb.
• The monasteries around the square, where visitors are welcome to sit quietly during prayers.
• The thangka painting studios, and the rooftop cafés looking straight onto the stupa (perfect for a cup of tea).

The stupa was damaged in the 2015 earthquake, but its tower was rebuilt and reconsecrated in 2016.

Entrance fee

NPR 400 for foreign visitors (checked October 2026). Boudhanath is part of our Kathmandu city tour and our half-day tour.