July 27, 2024, Saturday
Nepal 1:37:26 pm

Namo Buddha, the Buddhist shrine with majestic mountain views

The Nepal Weekly
October 10, 2023

Namo Buddha is a Buddhist shrine located around 42 km from Kathmandu. It lies at the top of the hill in Namo Buddha Municipality. Dhulikhel and Panauti are the nearest towns, both are at around 15 km at south and east respectively. The famous Tibetan monastery there at Namo Buddha is Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery.

Namo Buddha is awell known Buddhist shrine. Buddhists and others from Nepal and other countries visit there. There are well managed monasteries. A lot of Buddha statues are installed there. There are a number of meditation facilities as well. Moreover, praying for better abode in heaven to the recently passed close relatives, people come to offer lamps at Namo Buddha.  

According to legends, Namo Buddha is the place where once a prince offered his body to feed hungry tigress and her cubs. As the tigress accepts the sacrifice from prince she leaves only the bones. The bones of prince were brought back in the village and buried in the tomb which is actual stupa of Namo Buddha. The prince named Mahasatva has been respected as a Bodhisatva.  

Namo Buddha Monastery is a breathtaking escape from the bustling and dreary city life that you simply must experience. It’s a place of great merit and spiritual significance for those who visit and offer their respects.

Visitors to Namo Buddha monastery can explore the monastery and learn about the rich history and culture of Buddhism in Nepal. The peaceful and serene atmosphere of the monastery is accentuated by its beautiful gardens and courtyards, which are perfect for relaxation and meditation. Furthermore, visitors can revel in the scenic beauty of the surrounding area, which is dotted with rolling hills and lush green forests. On clear days, visitors can see the stunning Himalayan panorama of Gaurishankar, Dorje Lakpa, Choba Bhamare, Langtang, Shishapangma, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Numbur, Rolwaling, among others.

A stone sculpture of the Bodhisatwa who fed his body meat to the tigress and her cubs

On the full moon day in November, a grand festival is held at Namo Buddha monastery, attracting thousands of Buddhist pilgrims from Nepal and beyond. The festival involves prayers and cultural programs and serves as a celebration of the life and teachings of Buddha. The stupa is built in a traditional Tibetan style and is adorned with colorful prayer flags like other Buddhist monasteries in Nepal. Inside, there is a small shrine where devotees offer prayers and offerings.

Overall, Namo Buddha monastery is a beautiful and sacred place that provides a unique insight into the spiritual and cultural heritage of Nepal. It is a destination that everyone interested in Buddhism or seeking a peaceful and rejuvenating experience in nature must visit. Now, let’s delve deeper into the fascinating facts and information about this spiritual and cultural heritage site in Nepal.