Information
Bouddhanath is the center of Tibetan culture in Nepal. The 36-meter-high stupa of Bouddhanath is one of the largest stupas in South Asia. Bouddhanath Stupa was renovated by Licchavi rulers in the eighth century. The mandala design in Bouddhanath is a copy of the one in Gyangtse in Tibet.
The stupa is located in the area of ancient trade route to Tibet where Tibetan merchants rested and offered prayers for many centuries. When refugees entered Nepal from Tibet in the 1950s, many decided to live around Bouddhanath. Hence, a complete township has developed around Bouddhanath.
The stupa is said to entomb the remains of a Kasyap sage venerable both to Buddhists and Hindus. Smaller stupas are located at the base. Gompa monasteries, curio shops, and restaurants surround Bouddhanath.
Because of its location and size, it seems much larger than the Swayambunath Stupa, with the same hemi-spherical dome symbolizing the emptiness from which everything emanates. On top is the harmika painted on each side with the eyes of the Buddha symbolizing awareness, and above the spire with its 13 stages to the canopy. At ground level there is a brick wall with 147 niches and 108 images of the meditational buddha inset behind copper prayer wheels. Early morning and evening are the times to visit Bouddha to join the local residents in kora (walking the pilgrim's circuit, sometimes with Tibetan pilgrims on their hands and knees).
Schedule
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Transfer from airport to the hotel.
Day 2 - 3: Full day Sightseeing
Full day Sightseeing of Kathamndu Durbar square, Swayambhunath, Pashupati, Boudhanath, Budhanilkantha and Vajr- yogini
Day 4: Full day Sightseeing of Patan Durbar square
Full day Sightseeing of Patan Durbar square, Golden temple, Krishan temple, the temple of Thousand Buddha, Kumbeshower temple and Bhaktapur Durbar square, Natapola square, Dattatraya square, wood Carving museum, peacock window and pottery square.
Day 5: Drive to Dakashin Kali temple
Morning drive to Dakashin Kali temple (Goddess of victory over evils), one the way back visit Shesh Narayan temple, Chovar gorge and Historical hill town Kirtipur and drive to Dhulikhel (quiet and small town especially Spectacular Mountain views place)
Day 6: Drive to Namobuddha Monastery
Early morning after breakfast drive to Namobudha monastery and on the way back visit ancient city Panauti same day drive back to Kathmandu
Day 7: Mountain Flight
Morning Mountain flight and free time for shopping or personal activities.
Day 8: Transfer to airport for return flight.
Full day Sightseeing of Pokhara (Bindrabasini temple, Mahendra magic cave David’s fall, visit to International Mountain museum centre, boating at Fewa Lake and visit Barahi temple).