Ka-Nying Shedrub Ling Monastery
A vibrant Nyingma Buddhist monastery in Boudha, offering serene contemplation, monastic education, and a glimpse into Tibetan Buddhist life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter atmosphere for reflection
Ka-Nying Shedrub Ling Monastery
Best Time
Quieter atmosphere for reflection
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant Nyingma Buddhist monastery in Boudha, offering serene contemplation, monastic education, and a glimpse into Tibetan Buddhist life.
"Experience profound peace and authentic monastic life at this significant Buddhist center."
🎯 Dress Respectfully
Cover shoulders and knees to show respect for the monastic community. :pray:
⏰ Check Office Hours
Visit during office hours for inquiries or to make donations. :calendar:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Main Gompa
Central prayer hall
Experience the profound peace and intricate artistry of this sacred space, a hub for Buddhist learning.
Novice Monks at Play
Monastery grounds
Witness the youthful energy of young monks as they learn and play, offering a glimpse into monastic life.
Monastic Study & English Classes
Classrooms and common areas
Observe the dedication of students learning English and Buddhist philosophy, a testament to the monastery's educational role.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Understanding Monastery Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Dress Respectfully
Cover shoulders and knees to show respect for the monastic community. :pray:
⏰ Check Office Hours
Visit during office hours for inquiries or to make donations. :calendar:
Initiation into Nyingma as a lay person
🤫 Observe Quietly
Maintain a respectful silence and avoid disturbing monks during their practices. :person_walking:
🙏 Consider a Donation
Generous donations are appreciated for the personal pujas offered. :moneybag:
I'm thinking of doing a long retreat abroad, may I have you opinion/advice?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Dress Respectfully
Cover shoulders and knees to show respect for the monastic community. :pray:
⏰ Check Office Hours
Visit during office hours for inquiries or to make donations. :calendar:
🤫 Observe Quietly
Maintain a respectful silence and avoid disturbing monks during their practices. :person_walking:
🙏 Consider a Donation
Generous donations are appreciated for the personal pujas offered. :moneybag:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Ka-Nying Shedrub Ling Monastery for its serene atmosphere and the opportunity to witness authentic monastic life. Many appreciate the monks' kindness, especially their willingness to perform personal pujas without expectation of immediate reward. The monastery's role as an educational center for both English and Buddhist studies is also a notable aspect.
"Sunday afternoon. Gompas are locked. Lots of novice monks around, playing on the lawn. The office was open."
David Matte
"This is the largest monastery in the Boudha Stupa area, a lot of. students learning English."
Sammy F
"This monastery popular known as "white monastery" locally,it is where many foreign studies either language or Buddhist teaching and philosophy. We visit sometime and enjoy their calm and serenity environment."
Rinzin Gurung
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The monastery is located in the Boudha Stupa area. You can reach it by taxi or local bus from Thamel or other parts of Kathmandu. Many visitors combine a visit with the Boudha Stupa itself.
Parking can be challenging in the Boudha area. It's often best to use taxis or ride-sharing services and walk the final distance.
The most prominent landmark is the Boudha Stupa, which is very close by. The monastery is often referred to as the 'white monastery' locally.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the monastery grounds is generally free, though donations are highly encouraged, especially if you receive a personal puja.
The monastery grounds are usually accessible, but specific areas like the gompas might be locked at certain times, especially on Sunday afternoons. The office has specific operating hours.
Public pujas are not always scheduled daily. You may need to inquire about their availability or request a personal puja.
Typically, there is no specific entrance fee for foreigners, but donations are a crucial part of supporting the monastery's operations.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience. Take time to observe the monastic life, explore the grounds, and appreciate the serene environment.
Photography rules can vary. It's best to be discreet and respectful. Avoid taking photos of monks during private prayers or ceremonies without permission.
It's the largest monastery in the Boudha Stupa area and a significant center for learning English and Buddhist philosophy, attracting many foreign students.
While formal guided tours might not be readily advertised, you can often get information from the office or by respectfully asking monks.
Dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees, out of respect for the religious site.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The monastery itself does not typically have dining facilities for visitors. However, numerous restaurants and cafes are available around the Boudha Stupa area.
While not explicitly forbidden, it's generally best to consume food and drinks outside the main prayer areas to maintain the sanctity of the space.
📸 📸 Photography
The intricate architecture of the gompas, the serene courtyards, and candid shots of monastic life offer great photographic opportunities.
Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid intrusive photography, especially during prayer times or of individuals without their consent.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the monastery is a place of worship and study, so maintaining a calm demeanor is important. While there aren't specific child-focused activities, the overall serene environment can be a calming influence. The proximity to the Boudha Stupa also offers additional exploration opportunities for families.
🧘♀️ Spiritual Seekers & Meditation Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during weekdays for a more tranquil experience. If you're seeking personal spiritual guidance, inquiring about personal pujas can be a profound experience, as highlighted by visitors who received dedicated prayer services. The opportunity to witness and participate in Buddhist rituals offers a rich spiritual immersion.
📚 Students & Cultural Explorers
Engage with the environment by observing the students and monks. The monastery's location within the vibrant Boudha area also provides ample opportunities to explore Tibetan culture, cuisine, and crafts. It’s a great place to gain a deeper understanding of Tibetan Buddhism and its influence.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Nyingma Buddhism
The monastery also plays a crucial role in educating young monks, with many students learning English alongside Buddhist philosophy and teachings. This blend of traditional monasticism and modern education is a unique aspect of Ka-Nying Shedrub Ling. The presence of numerous students contributes to the vibrant, yet peaceful, atmosphere of the monastery.
For those interested in a deeper spiritual connection, the monastery offers opportunities for personal pujas. As one visitor shared, they received extensive personal prayer services from over eight monks without any expectation of return, highlighting the selfless nature of the monastic community. This experience underscores the monastery's commitment to supporting individuals seeking spiritual solace.
A Glimpse into Monastic Life
While the main gompas might be locked at certain times, the office is usually open for inquiries. Visitors have noted that even when specific public pujas aren't scheduled, the monks are often willing to perform personal pujas for those in need. This act of service, as described by one reviewer, involved chanting, burning offerings, and playing instruments, all performed without seeking immediate compensation.
Respectful observation is key when experiencing monastic life. It's important to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, and to maintain a quiet demeanor. While photography is often permitted, it's crucial to be mindful and avoid disrupting any ceremonies or private moments.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit