Namo Buddha is one of the most revered Buddhist pilgrimage centers in Nepal, situated in the Kavrepalanchok District of Bagmati Province, some 52 kilometers southeast of the capital city of Kathmandu. The center is road-accessible and can be reached within 2 to 2.5 hours from the capital, making it ideal for a day trip or a short visit for foreign tourists.
Also known as Takmo Lüjin, or “the offering of the body to the tigress,” Namo Buddha is named after the selfless act of an early life form of Shakyamuni Buddha. In Buddhist legend, Prince Mahasattva sacrificed his life to save a starving tigress and her cubs, symbolizing compassion and selflessness. The Namo Buddha Stupa, which enshrines the bone relics of the prince, is said to be one of the three most sacred stupas in the Kathmandu Valley.
Traditional Tibetan architecture golden rooftop at Namobuddha temple
A forest stairway leads from the stupa to the place where the sacrifice is said to have occurred. This spot is located right next to the Thrangu Tashi Yangtze Choling Monastery, which belongs to the Karma Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism and was established according to the instructions of Thrangu Rinpoche. Buddhist masters and contemporary spiritual teachers from all traditions come to pray here.
If you are interested in visiting Namo Buddha, which is located near Kathmandu, this guide has all the information you need to make your trip easy and informed.
Highlights of Namo Buddha Monastery
Buddhist Teachings and Sessions
Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery
Stunning Hilltop Location
Meditation Retreats
Peaceful Environment
Scenic Hiking Trails
Historical Background of Namo Buddha Monastery
The deep spiritual significance of the monastery lies in a poignant legend that has fascinated the hearts of many people. It is believed that in previous life, Lord Buddha was born Prince Mahasavat. During a visit through a dense forest, he faced a hungry tiger unable to feed his cubs. The prince moved forward with a heavy sense of compassion and sympathy for the afflicted animals, the prince made a shocking decision; He offered his body to the tiger, sacrificing himself to save him and his children.
This selfless activity done by Buddha is not only a story, it becomes a true example of kindness. The story teaches a simple Buddhist lesson: giving to others. Namo Buddha, where this happened, is now a peaceful spot for reflection, attracting visitors from everywhere.
King offering body to tigress sculpture at Namobuddha monastery Nepal
The monastery itself is surrounded by a calm landscape with soft hills and green greenery, which creates a sense of peace and peace. As visitors enter, they often collide with the simplicity and beauty of architecture, which is originally mixed in the original environment. Here, monks live a life dedicated to spiritual practice, sharing teachings and knowledge that the prince echoes exemplary values by Mahasavat.
People visit Namo Buddha to show respect, meditate, and think quietly. The place feels respectful, which encourages kindness and caring for others. The rituals and activities there remind people to be kind and generous every day.
As the sun goes down, the monastery stands as a reminder to everyone of the prince's sacrifice. It is an old story that tells people to be kind and loving, to make the world a wonderful place. The monastery, then, is not just a reminder of the past, but also a source of hope for all people today and in the years ahead.
Activities to do in Namo Buddha Monastery
Explore Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery.
Hike Around Namo Buddha.
Research Tibetan Buddhism and the monastic lifestyle.
Apply for a volunteer program and assist in the monastery's work.
Witness the monks' daily routine during a morning chanting ceremony.
Come and become a guest of this peaceful town and experience a monastic life.
You can take one of the meditation or spirituality classes offered here.
Explore the Tibetan Culture.
Location and How to Reach Namo Buddha Monastery
Namo Buddha Monastery is situated to the southeast of Kathmandu Valley. You can drive here from the city in about two hours. The Monastery is located in Kavrepalanchok District, east of Bhaktapur district. From this point, you can see the peaceful area that seems to be miles away from the heavy streets of the city.
Namo Buddha can be reached from various parts of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, or Lalitpur. It will take about two hours from Bhaktapur to reach this beautiful place.
Buddhist monk performing ritual ceremony at Namobuddha monastery
How to Reach Namobuddha from Kathmandu
Taxi/Car: You can also get a taxi from anywhere in Kathmandu Valley. For convenience, you can book a taxi using various ride-sharing apps like Pathao, Jumjum, Indrive, etc.
Public bus: Local buses are available easily in different parts of Kathmandu Valley. The bus operates from Kathmandu to Dhulikhel to Karvre. The bus ride is inexpensive, but an adventure. You have to walk some minutes from the bus stop to reach the monastery.
By Bike/ Bicycle: You can hire a motorcycle through ride-sharing apps such as Pathao, Indrive, etc. You could also hire a bike or cycle privately.
By Walking: Walking is also a great option for all adventure seekers.
Courses Available
Likewise, Kopan Monastery, Namo Buddha Monastery is also famous for the variety of courses it offers, teaching and practicing Tibetan Buddhism, meditation, and mindfulness. The courses are for people of all levels, from those who are complete beginners to experts, right through to people who would like to gain deeper spiritual insight. The Namo Buddha Monastery courses are divided into various levels for practitioners:
One-Month Buddhist Monastery Retreat
Duration: One month
Audience: Suitable for both beginners and experienced people.
Description: This interactive retreat provides daily instruction, meditation, and participation in sacred ceremonies. In the serene Himalayan environment, participants have the chance to foster inner peace and increase spiritual wisdom.
Mind Training Retreat
Duration: Five weeks.
Audience: Suitable for beginners and also for those who have limited time.
Description: The course is based on "The Seven Points of Mind Training," the retreat has four times daily meditations, group lectures, and teaching on how to cultivate bodhicitta (enlightenment mind). It's for everybody who wishes to increase compassion and wisdom.
Tibetan Language Classes
The monastery offers Tibetan language courses for various levels:
Beginning Tibetan: This course is for complete beginners. The course is all about learning, reading practice texts, and basic conversational skills.
Tibetan Level A1: This course is for those with basic knowledge, focusing on colloquial grammar and confidence-building in everyday situations. This is a more advanced course.
Preliminary Retreat Centre
The place is located north of the main temple, this center offers retreats focusing on foundational practices such as Ngondro, Konchok Chidue, and Cho practice. This place has twelve rooms and a temple, so it's a great spot for serious meditation.
These programs at Namo Buddha Monastery provide a holistic means of learning and practicing Tibetan Buddhism in which students have the chance to get immersed in spiritual practices in the serene Himalayan setting.
Golden rooftops of Namobuddha monastery with mountain backdrop
Traveling Tips when visiting Namo Buddha Monastery
Always carry cash. Many shops near monasteries still prefer it over cards.
You should respect the cultures. Try not to touch or climb the monuments, and make sure you follow the rules of the monasteries.
Plan ahead by checking the opening times, so you know the monastery will be open when you want to visit. Keep in mind that monasteries might be closed for special ceremonies or festivals.
Be sure that photography and video-capturing are allowed inside the monasteries premises, ask others if confused.
Make sure to keep the noise down and show respect when you're near monasteries, especially if the monks are chanting or doing mantras.
Accommodation Options near Namo Buddha Monastery
Namo Buddha Monasteries, also known as Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery, offers two guesthouses for visitors who are seeking a spiritual retreat: The New Guest House and the Old Guest House. Each has something different on the basis of personal preferences and budget.
New Guest House
The new guest house offers more modern and private rooms, which are more comfortable, and are ideal for those who prefer more features during their stay. This housing is more expensive than the old guest house. If you wish for more luxury, this housing is ideal for you.
Room types: single and shared rooms with attached private bathrooms.
Facilities: Hot water, western-style toilets, clean beds, and cool views of the monastery.
Food: The guests share food with the Mathvasi community, experiencing traditional vegetarian dishes.
Rate: About 3,500 per day including breakfast and dinner.
Contact details:
Manager: Tashi Wangdu
Phone: +977 9808786043
Email: Thranguguesthousenb@gmail.com
Old Guest House
The old guest house offers a more traditional monastery life experience, suitable for those who seek simplicity and have a close relationship with the Mathvasi life. This migration is less expensive than the new guest house.
Room types: basic rooms with shared bathrooms (one bathroom per three rooms).
Facilities: clean and huge rooms with warm beds; Shared bathroom features.
Food: provides an authentic communal food experience.
Rates: approximately NPR 3,000, per day, including breakfast and dinner.
Contact details:
Manager: Karma Tenfel
Phone: +977 9860182064
Email: Oldguesthouse2024@gmail.com
Whether you select a new guest house for your comfortable features or provide a great opportunity to live old guest house for your classic feel, Namo Buddha provides a great opportunity to stay in the Tibetan Buddhist daily life and practice in the middle of the picturesque hills of Nepal.
Best Time to Visit and Climatic Condition
If you want to visit Namo Buddha Spring season and Autumn season is ideal time. These periods offer clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and vibrant natural scenes. Additionally, the annual name Buddha Mela Festival held on Purnima Day in November attracts pilgrims and visitors from all over the world with prayers and cultural programs.
Namobuddha monastery complex in Dhulikhel Nepal
FAQs
Where is Namo Buddha located?
Namo Buddha Monastery is located in Simalchaur Syampati, Namobuddha Municipality, in the Bagmati Province of Nepal.
How do I get to Namo Buddha Monastery?
Taxis are plentiful in Kathmandu. Public buses are also available from various parts of Kathmandu. It is around 40km southeast of Kathmandu.
What is the entry fee for visiting Namo Buddha Monastery?
No, there is no entrance fee to visit Namobuddha Monastery. One can visit the monastery and its surroundings free of cost.
Can I participate in a meditation session at Namo Buddha?
Yes, Namo Buddha offers meditation sessions for those interested in practicing meditation.
Conclusion
In summation, just like, Kopan Monastery, Namo Buddha is also a place where you feel you belong, at least for a while. The practices shared here lead to mindfulness, compassion, and an insight into oneself. People often come away with new perspectives and a greater sense of purpose after spending time reflecting in a peaceful environment with guidance from the resident monks.
In addition to its spiritual work and teachings, Namo Buddha Monastery has always been involved with community service activities which are in the spirit of the Buddhist practice of living through involvement in compassionate works. This service commitment gives a sense of community, involving all guests with knowledge of the value of serving others and living harmoniously in the world around us.
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