About Namo Buddha Day Tour
Namo Buddha Day Tour begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu, which takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions. As you approach the monastery, you will notice the serene surroundings, perched on a hilltop in the Kavre district. Namo Buddha is a sacred pilgrimage site of Buddhists, believed to be the location where the historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama, in a past life, offered his own body to a hungry tigress and her cubs, embodying the virtue of compassion. The story is depicted in a mural inside the monastery, making this a spiritual and historically significant place for visitors.
Upon arrival, you can visit the Namo Buddha monastery itself, which is also known for its peaceful ambiance and magnificent views of the surrounding hills and valley. The monastery is a central point for Buddhist teachings, and many monks reside here, meditating and studying the scriptures. The monastery’s architecture is traditional and grand, with intricate wood carvings and statue of the Buddha. You can take a walk around the perimeter of the monastery to see prayer flags fluttering in the wind and enjoy the calm atmosphere. The surrounding gardens and forested areas offer a perfect place for quiet reflection.
In the afternoon, take a short hike around the area to explore more of the surroundings, including the Stupa and smaller shrines that dot the landscapes. The hike offers views of the distant Himalayan peaks on clear days, making it a photographer’s dream. For lunch, you can enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants that offers traditional Nepalese dishes with a view. The peaceful spiritual atmosphere of Namo Buddha makes it an ideal place to unwind and connect with nature, which offers a perfect end to your day tour before heading back to the Kathmandu Valley.
Routes
The Namo Buddha day tour typically begins with a visit to the sacred Namo Buddha Stupa, located in the Kavrepalanchok District, about 40 kilometers southeast of Kathmandu. The site is one of the holiest in Nepal, which is known for its connection to the Buddha’s past life when he said to have sacrificed his body to starving tigress and her cubs. Visitors can start the day by exploring the stupa and surrounding, taking in panoramic views of the Himalayas, and lush landscapes. Afterward, a short trek or drives take you to nearby monasteries, where monks often perform prayers and rituals, creating a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere. The tour can include visits to local villages, where you can experience the lifestyle of the Tamang people, who hold strong Buddhist traditions. The day typically concludes with a visit to a nearby temple or meditation center, offering a chance for quiet reflection and understanding of the local Buddhist practices.
Highlights
- Visit scared pilgrimages site of Buddhist
- Local believed that in past life, Siddhartha Gautama, sacrificed his body to hungry tigress and her cubs
- Monastery is known for its peaceful ambiance and magnificent views of the surrounding hills
- Peaceful spiritual atmosphere of Namo Buddha, ideal place to unwind and connect with nature
Useful Information
Things to do in Namo Buddha Day tour
A Namo Buddha day tour is a special experience, as it combines spiritual, cultural, and natural elements that are significant for both locals and Buddhist pilgrims. Here are the top things to do on a Namo Buddha Day tour:
Visit the Namo Buddha Stupa: The stupa is the central and most significant site at Namo Buddha. According to legends, the Buddha offers his body to a starving tigress and her cubs here. This act of compassion is the main reason why the site holds immerse spiritual significance. You can circumambulate the stupa while reflecting on the Buddha’s teachings.
Explore the Namo Buddha Monastery: This monastery is a Tibetan Buddhist center where you can observe monks in their daily routine, learn about their lifestyle, and listen to the teachings. Visitors are often welcome to join prayers and learn more about Tibetan Buddhism. The architecture and the surrounding atmosphere of the monastery are also worth admiring.
Meditation at the Meditation Center: Namo Buddha offers a peaceful environment perfect for meditation. Some monasteries in the area offer guided meditation sessions or silent meditation, where you can find peace and reflection.
Walk through the Sacred Caves: there are caves near the stupa and monastery that are believed to be associated with the Buddha’s life, including the legends where he offered his body to the tigress. These caves add an intimate, spiritual dimension to the pilgrimage experience.
Addend a Buddhist Prayer or Puja: If your visit coincides with a scheduled prayer or puja (ceremony), you can observe or participate in the religious rituals conducted by the monks. This is a great opportunity to learn about Buddhist rituals and gain insight into the religious practices of Tibetan Buddhist.
Relax and Reflect: Namo Buddha is an incredibly serene and perfect place to take time to simply relax and reflect. Whether you sit quietly in the gardens, under a tree, or near the stupa, the peaceful atmosphere is perfect for personal reflection or journaling.
Photography and Scenic Views: The landscapes around the Namo Buddha are breathtaking, with green hills, valleys, and distant Himalayan views.
These activities allow you to immerse yourself in the spiritual, cultural, and natural beauty of Namo Buddha. Each activity offers a deeper understanding of Buddhism and provides ample opportunities for personal reflection, learning and connection to the area’s peaceful environment.