Boudhanath Stupa, Kathmandu

One of the largest and most important structures of its kind in the country, Boudhanath Stupa holds a spot on the World Heritage List and serves as an icon of the city. Pay a visit to this holy site and you'll find it an epicenter of Tibetan Buddhism in the region, as the complex features a number of monasteries around it. Marvel at the stupa's massive base, topped with a sizable dome and a towering manadala, the golden triangular spire at the top. You can also admire the colorful statues around the dome and the tower's mysterious painted-on eyes. Rumor has it that circling the stupa can help to free you from your sins. The devastating earthquake in April of 2015 severely damaged the structure, causing the removal of the entire top portion and calling for a massive reconstruction project. Use our Kathmandu tour planning tool to add Boudhanath Stupa and other attractions to your Kathmandu vacation plans.