Kopan Monastery
Bāgmatī
Kopan Monastery is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery located near Boudhanath on the outskirts of Kathmandu, Nepal. Founded in 1969 by Lamas Thubten Yeshe and Thubten Zopa Rinpoche, it serves as a key center of the Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition (FPMT). The monastery is situated atop Kopan Hill, from which it derives its name. It is famous for its annual month-long meditation courses held since 1971, which attract many Western visitors seeking to learn traditional Lam Rim teachings combined with guided meditation and vegetarian meals. The monastery complex also includes the Khachoe Ghakyil Ling Nunnery, established in 1979 to provide spiritual and practical education for nuns. Over the decades, the nunnery has grown substantially, expanding its educational and housing facilities. Kopan Monastery is not only a spiritual hub but also a popular recreational spot for locals and tourists alike, offering tranquil views and a peaceful atmosphere conducive to meditation and learning.
Plan your trip to Nepal with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visitors are advised to attend the annual meditation courses held from November to December for a comprehensive experience. Booking in advance is recommended due to the popularity of these courses. The monastery follows a vegetarian diet during programs, and modest, respectful attire is expected. Early morning meditation sessions offer a serene start to the day, and the best time to visit is during the dry season from October to March for pleasant weather and clear views.
Interesting facts
- •The monastery was founded by two prominent Tibetan lamas, Thubten Yeshe and Thubten Zopa Rinpoche, key figures in spreading Tibetan Buddhism internationally.
- •Kopan Monastery hosts an annual month-long meditation course that has attracted thousands of Western students since 1971.
- •The nunnery associated with the monastery grew from just 4 residents to over 400 in less than 35 years, reflecting significant expansion.
- •The monastery is situated on Kopan Hill, providing panoramic views of Kathmandu and the surrounding Himalayan foothills.
History
Kopan Monastery was established in 1969 when Lamas Thubten Yeshe and Thubten Zopa Rinpoche purchased the hilltop property from Nepal's royal astrologer.
It quickly became the headquarters of the FPMT, an international Gelugpa dharma network.
In 1971, the monastery inaugurated its first month-long meditation course, which has continued annually since.
The Khachoe Ghakyil Ling Nunnery was founded in 1979 to extend spiritual education to women.
Over the following decades, both institutions grew in size and influence, expanding their facilities and educational offerings.
Place Guide
Main Monastery Complex1969
The central area atop Kopan Hill where monks reside, meditate, and teach. It includes temples, meditation halls, and living quarters, embodying traditional Tibetan Buddhist architecture and spiritual ambiance.
Khachoe Ghakyil Ling Nunnery (Kopan Nunnery)1979
Located near the monastery, this nunnery was established in 1979 to provide spiritual and practical education to Buddhist nuns, paralleling the monks' training. It has grown substantially in size and facilities over the decades.
Contact
Phone: 01-4821268
