Spiritual · Boudhanath
Sit in on a Tibetan monastery puja
Visit two of Boudha's monasteries during prayers: deep chanting, long horns, drums and butter lamps. We explain the main images, the murals and the daily life of the monks, and how the monasteries came to Boudha after 1959.
Boudha has monasteries of all the main Tibetan Buddhist schools, many founded in the 1960s and 1970s by lamas who left Tibet. We visit two that welcome respectful visitors at prayer times, such as Shechen Tennyi Dargyeling or Ka-Nying Shedrub Ling, depending on the day's schedule.
In the prayer hall, rows of monks sit facing each other, chanting from long loose-leaf texts. Every so often the chant is broken by long copper horns, oboe-like gyaling, cymbals and drums. Visitors sit at the back on a cushion or bench. We explain in whispers what is happening, or wait outside to talk.
Afterwards we walk round the hall to look at the main images, usually the Buddha, Padmasambhava and protector deities, and the murals that cover the walls. If a monk has time, we ask about his day, which often starts before 5 am. We also explain how young monks are educated, and how monasteries are funded.
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Questions
Can tourists visit monasteries in Boudhanath?
Yes. Most larger monasteries in Boudha welcome visitors outside private ceremonies. Remove shoes before entering the prayer hall, walk clockwise, sit at the back during puja, and do not point your feet at the altar. Ask before taking photographs; some halls do not allow them during prayers.
What time are prayers at Boudhanath monasteries?
Times vary by monastery, but morning prayers usually begin early, before or around 6 am, and afternoon prayers between about 3 and 5 pm. Special pujas happen on full-moon days and festivals. Your guide will check the day's schedule, since visits are best timed to a session.
What should I wear to a monastery in Nepal?
Wear clothes that cover shoulders and knees, and shoes that are easy to take off. Avoid hats inside halls. Leather items are fine in most Tibetan monasteries. A small scarf is useful in cold halls in winter. Dress modestly rather than formally.
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