Thrangu Monastery
A sacred Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Namobuddha, offering spiritual serenity, stunning architecture, and breathtaking views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience Green Tara practice
Thrangu Monastery
Best Time
Experience Green Tara practice
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sacred Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Namobuddha, offering spiritual serenity, stunning architecture, and breathtaking views.
"Monastery is breathtakingly beautiful in and out. I would definitely visit again."
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this sacred site. :pray:
Check Schedule Online
Visit their website for practice times and opening hours to avoid disappointment. :computer:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Main Temple Room
Interior
Marvel at the main temple room, adorned with Amitabha Buddha figures and a large Shakyamuni Buddha statue.
Prayer Wheels and Flags
Exterior Walls
Walk along the outer walls lined with prayer wheels and colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind.
Stunning Views
Hilltop Location
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from this sacred hilltop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visits
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this sacred site. :pray:
Check Schedule Online
Visit their website for practice times and opening hours to avoid disappointment. :computer:
Be Mindful of Litter
Help keep this sacred place clean by disposing of trash properly. :recycle:
Ask for Guidance
Volunteers are available to help you understand the practices and layout. :raised_hand:
Tips
from all over the internet
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this sacred site. :pray:
Check Schedule Online
Visit their website for practice times and opening hours to avoid disappointment. :computer:
Be Mindful of Litter
Help keep this sacred place clean by disposing of trash properly. :recycle:
Ask for Guidance
Volunteers are available to help you understand the practices and layout. :raised_hand:
Wheelchair Accessibility
Note that the main temple entrance is not wheelchair friendly. :wheelchair:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Thrangu Monastery for its breathtaking beauty, serene atmosphere, and spiritual significance, often describing it as a peaceful sanctuary. The stunning Tibetan architecture and panoramic views are frequently highlighted. However, some reviews mention concerns about litter near the sacred site and a few critical remarks about specific interactions with a Rinpoche.
"Recently, attended the Green Tara practice on a Saturday morning. The practice is lead by the Rinpoche. The prayer book has been translated in English, which was helpful.
Please note this is a religious and not a tourist place. So please be mindful.
No tickets necessary for entering the premise. However, you need to adhere to the decorum. There are volunteers who can guide you. Parking was free and not busy.
Do check their website for the schedules, before visiting.
The premise closes in the afternoon between noon and 13:30 and also on Mondays."
Sritika Singh
"Rinpoche tells me that Judaism and Christianity are worship of spirits; that’s like a person who has not studied the subject saying that Buddhism is idolatry.
Rinpoche incorrectly thinks the first Bodhisattva Bhumi is uninterrupted Mahamudra.
At our first meeting, Rinpoche clumsily pressured me to finance building a house on his retreat property before I’d even seen the place.
It was unbelievable that Rinpoche would attempt to criticize English words he doesn’t understand though his English comprehension is less than rudimentary.
The high title of Rinpoche rarely implies enlightenment and in this case evidently implies merely responsibility for a monastery and fund-raising. Sadly, the Golden Age of Tibetan Buddhism in the West, 1965-1989, has come and is forever gone."
Specie Aeternitatis
"Thank you Sangpo la and Surya la, I had nice time there, Monastery is breathtakingly beautiful in and out. I would definitely visit again."
Tashi P
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Thrangu Monastery is located in Namobuddha, about a 2-hour drive from Kathmandu. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus towards Panauti and then connect to Namobuddha. Many visitors find it a scenic drive, offering a peaceful escape from the city.
Yes, there is free parking available for visitors. It is usually not busy, making it convenient for those arriving by car.
Absolutely! Thrangu Monastery is a popular day trip destination from Kathmandu, offering a spiritual and scenic experience within a few hours.
Many travelers opt for a taxi for convenience and comfort, especially if they are visiting for a day trip. Local buses are also an option for budget-conscious travelers.
The route typically involves heading east from Kathmandu towards Panauti, and then continuing on to Namobuddha. The journey itself is part of the experience, with beautiful landscapes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No tickets are necessary for entering the premises of Thrangu Monastery. It is a religious site open to visitors, but donations are appreciated.
The monastery closes in the afternoon between 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM and is also closed on Mondays. It's advisable to check their official website for the most up-to-date schedule before your visit.
There is no admission fee to enter Thrangu Monastery. However, visitors are encouraged to make donations to support the monastery's activities and upkeep.
Yes, you can visit during prayer times, and it's often encouraged to witness the spiritual practices. The Green Tara practice on Saturday mornings is particularly recommended.
Visitors must adhere to the decorum of a religious site. This includes dressing modestly and maintaining a respectful and quiet demeanor.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The atmosphere is serene and spiritual, offering a peaceful escape. Many visitors describe it as a place of tranquility and natural beauty, where nature meets spirituality.
Photography is generally allowed in the exterior areas, but it's best to be discreet and respectful, especially inside the main temple. Always observe if there are any signs or if monks indicate otherwise.
While formal guided tours might not always be available, there are volunteers on-site who can guide you and answer your questions about the monastery and Buddhist practices.
It's important to dress modestly out of respect for the religious nature of the site. This means covering your shoulders and knees.
The main temple entrance is not wheelchair friendly, and stairs lead to the main temple room. Visitors with mobility issues should be aware of this limitation.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the monastery itself has a shop and donation center, dining options directly within the monastery are limited. You might find local eateries in the nearby Namobuddha area or back in Panauti.
The monastery has a shop and donation center where you might find some items, but it's not a full-service restaurant. It's advisable to bring your own snacks or plan to eat elsewhere.
Given the Buddhist nature of the monastery, vegetarian options are likely available in the surrounding areas. The monastery itself may offer simple refreshments.
The monastery has a dining room for the Sangha (monastic community), and visitors can access the shop and donation center.
It's generally acceptable to bring your own food for a picnic in designated areas, but always be mindful of keeping the sacred grounds clean and dispose of waste properly.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted in the outdoor areas and courtyards. However, it's respectful to refrain from taking photos inside the main temple during ceremonies or when monks are present.
The exterior with its Tibetan-style architecture, prayer wheels, and flags offers great photo opportunities. The hilltop location also provides stunning panoramic views.
There are no specific mentions of drone restrictions, but it's always best to err on the side of caution and avoid using drones in religious or sensitive areas without explicit permission.
Visitors often capture the architectural details, the serene atmosphere, the monks in prayer, and the beautiful natural surroundings.
It is always polite and respectful to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of monks or individuals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the main temple might require quiet behavior, the grounds offer space for children to move around. It's a good idea to prepare children beforehand about the importance of respecting a religious site. The sight of young monks can also be interesting for kids.
🧘 Spiritual Seekers
Attending a practice session, such as the Green Tara on Saturdays, or simply spending time in quiet contemplation amidst the prayer wheels and flags can be a highlight. The monastery is a place to connect with a sense of peace and mindfulness.
📸 Photographers
Capture the details of the monastery's exterior and interior, the monks in their daily routines (with respect and permission), and the breathtaking landscapes surrounding Namobuddha. Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance the photographic appeal.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of Namobuddha
This legend imbues the entire area with a profound sense of spirituality. Visitors often feel a sense of peace and reflection, drawn to the historical and spiritual significance of the location. The narrative of selflessness and compassion is central to the experience of visiting Thrangu Monastery and the Namobuddha stupa.
Monastic Life and Practices
Practices like the Green Tara practice, often held on Saturday mornings, are open to the public and provide a glimpse into the devotional life of the community. The presence of young monks being cared for and educated within the monastery highlights its role in nurturing the next generation of practitioners.
For those interested in deeper engagement, the monastery may offer teachings or retreats. It's important to remember that this is a living religious institution, and visitors are guests. Observing the daily routines and respecting the monastic discipline is key to a meaningful visit.
Architectural and Artistic Significance
Inside, the main temple room is equally impressive. It features walls lined with small figures of Amitabha Buddha and faces a large, central statue of Shakyamuni Buddha. The interior is designed to foster a sense of reverence and peace, with spaces for prayer offerings and quiet contemplation. The artistic elements are not merely decorative but serve to aid in meditation and devotion.
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