One of the largest spherical stupas in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal.

About Boudhanath Stupa

Boudhanath Stupa (Boudha) is one of the largest spherical stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, standing as the center of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. The massive white dome, topped by a golden spire with the all-seeing eyes of Buddha painted on each side, dominates the skyline of eastern Kathmandu and has drawn pilgrims for over 1,500 years.

The kora (circumambulation) path around the stupa is one of Kathmandu's most atmospheric experiences, with monks in maroon robes spinning prayer wheels, incense smoke drifting from monasteries, and the murmur of mantras filling the air. The surrounding neighborhood is home to over 50 Tibetan monasteries (gompas), making it a living center of Buddhist practice and learning.

The area around the stupa has developed into a vibrant cultural hub with rooftop restaurants offering stupa views, Tibetan handicraft shops selling thangka paintings and singing bowls, and meditation centers welcoming international students. Several monasteries offer short meditation retreats and Buddhist philosophy courses.

Nearby Landmarks

Kopan Monastery Shechen Monastery Hyatt Regency Kathmandu Pashupatinath Temple

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost NPR 500-800 (~$4-6)
Time 10-20 minutes

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost NPR 300-500 (~$2-4)
Time 10-20 minutes

Terminal arrivals

Step-by-Step Directions

Short taxi ride from airport. Closest major landmark to the airport.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi NPR 500-800 (~$4-6) 10-20 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare NPR 300-500 (~$2-4) 10-20 minutes Budget-conscious, app users

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

Taxis are available around Boudhanath until about 9:00-10:00 PM. After that, options become limited in the area. Ride-hailing apps (Pathao, inDrive) may have some availability. The stupa area itself is beautiful at dusk when butter lamps are lit, but plan transport back before it gets too late. Hotels in the Boudha area are an excellent alternative to Thamel.

Luggage Tips

If visiting Boudhanath directly from the airport, ask your taxi to wait while you visit (negotiate a waiting fee of NPR 200-300 per hour) and keep luggage locked in the car. There are no public luggage facilities at Boudhanath. Some restaurants near the stupa may hold bags for customers temporarily. The circumambulation path is flat and paved.

Accessibility

The circumambulation path around Boudhanath Stupa is relatively flat and paved, making it more accessible than many Kathmandu sites. However, accessing the upper platforms of the stupa requires steep stairs. The approach roads from the parking area involve some uneven surfaces. Most taxis can drop off very close to the stupa entrance gate.