This
Colossal stupa the biggest in Nepal is situated about
7km. East of the capital. The Bouddhhnath stupa is
also known as Khasti Chitya and is considered as one
of the oldest stupas in the country.
After 1959, many Tibetans came and have settled in
Bouddhanath area.
With a diameter of about 100m and a height of 40m,
Bouddhanath is among the largest stupas in the world.
The Bouddhanath stupa covers a vast area that has
a circumbulatory path at the bottom and another path
made of three-tier plinth. The stupa looks similar
to Swayambhunath but many features in this stupa are
pinnacles as well as 108 Buddhist Gods and Goddesses.
The most attractive part of the Stupa is the all seeing
eyes of the Buddha painted with red, white and blue.
It is believed that King Manadeva built the Bouddhanath
stupa during the Lichavi period. It has been renovated
time and again and the present form of stupa was renovated
in the 17th century.
The most popular festival celebrated here is the
Tibetan New Year festival Lhosar that falls in February.
The festival starts with prayers and worship. Thousands,
of Tibetans dress Traditionally and dance after lighting
incense to Buddha. Lots of Tibetan comes from Laddakh,
Sikkim, Bhutan as well as other parts of the hills
to celebrate this festival.
In Bouddhanath, there are many monasteries or Gompas.
They are all beautifully decorated and colorfully
painted. One can visit the monasteries and take photographs.
It is advisable to give small donation when one takes
photographs.