About this experience
Nepal is one of the most mysterious countries in Southeast Asia. While usual tours in Kathmandu follow the standard route of popular sights, we will dedicate the day to discussing Tibetan Buddhism and its influence on modern society and individuality. We will visit all the beloved places of this ancient city, known for its 'power,' starting from the legendary Kopan Monastery and ending at the nighttime crematorium - Pashupatinath. In the evening, you will attend the evening puja service on the banks of the sacred river, which will undoubtedly be a worthy conclusion to a fulfilling day.
What Awaits You
Introduction to Tibetan Buddhism
I will be able to answer all your questions about Tibetan Buddhism, as I have been studying it since 2009 and specialize in Buddhology at a monastic university in Kathmandu. Our conversation will touch upon topics such as happiness, suffering, human selfishness, life and death, depression, the value of a human birth, and the moral and material values from the perspective of Tibetan Buddhism.
Sacred Places of Kathmandu
We will meet at the gates of the famous Kopan Monastery - my spiritual home, offering a breathtaking view of the city. I will share with you its history, the life of the monks, their daily routine, and the famous lamas associated with Kopan. If the monastery is open to visitors, you can stroll through its grounds; if not, we will walk along a narrow picturesque path to nearby equally interesting monasteries (female and male), where you can observe the amazing world of people dedicated to deep Buddhist practices. You will be served traditional Nepali tea at a family-run mountain cafe with glass walls providing a view of the entire city. Afterwards, we will descend to one of the oldest stupas in the world, traditionally believed to have been built around the time of Lord Shakyamuni Buddha.
Hinduism in Nepal and its Differences from Buddhism
After dining at a cozy restaurant with a view of a huge stupa, you will visit the major Hindu temple complex of Pashupatinath, by the banks of the sacred Bagmati River where cremations take place. Topics of discussion will include the Tibetan Book of the Dead and the differences between Hindu and Buddhist traditions, life after death, and consciousness reincarnations. In the evening, you will participate in the traditional colorful ritual - the evening puja, which occurs daily at 6 o'clock on the banks of the sacred river and always leaves a special impression on guests. After the tour, I will accompany you to a taxi and help you negotiate with local drivers to get safely back to your hotel at a reasonable price.
I have been living here for three years not by chance; it is my conscious choice. I am in love with Kathmandu and ready to reveal its amazing life to you.
Organizational Details
Not included in the price: lunch at a restaurant (from 3 to 10 dollars per person), tickets to Pashupatinath Temple (10 dollars) and to Boudhanath Stupa (5 dollars). Taxi rides within the city (15-20 dollars, depending on the location of your hotel).
