Namobuddha
In Nepali: नमोबुद्ध
According to the Jataka story, Prince Mahasattva, a previous incarnation of the Buddha, found a tigress too weak to feed her cubs and offered his own body to save them. Namobuddha marks the spot and is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimages in Nepal.
Above the old stupa, the large Thrangu Tashi Yangtse monastery houses hundreds of monks and has sweeping views. Walking here from Dhulikhel (about 3–4 hours) and on to Panauti is a classic day hike.
What to see and do
Visit the old stupa marking the Jataka story, climb to the carved stone slab showing the prince feeding the tigress, and walk up to the Thrangu monastery with its large, colourful prayer hall. Monks chant in the late afternoon. The monastery guesthouse offers simple rooms.
Good to know
Dress modestly. The hilltop is peaceful early in the morning; it gets busy with day-trippers at weekends. The monastery offers short meditation courses — check in advance.
Quick answers
- Where is Namobuddha?
- Namobuddha is in Kavrepalanchok district, Bagmati Province, in the Pahad belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Namobuddha?
- About 1,750 m (5,742 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Namobuddha?
- For a 3-day trip from Kathmandu, about NPR 5,000 (≈ US$37) per person on a budget, or NPR 11,500 (≈ US$85) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 5,000 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Namobuddha?
- Plan 1 night there; with travel from Kathmandu and back, about 3 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Namobuddha?
- No special permit or ticket is normally needed.
- When is the best time to visit Namobuddha?
- October–May
- How do I get to Namobuddha?
- About 40 minutes by road or 3–4 hours' walk from Dhulikhel. It is about 30 km (straight line) from Kathmandu.
- What is Namobuddha called in Nepali?
- नमोबुद्ध
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