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Temples & religious sites

Kopan Monastery

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Kopan Monastery

Overview

Kopan Monastery is an active Tibetan Buddhist monastery of the Gelug tradition, situated on a hill near Boudhanath on the outskirts of Kathmandu. Travellers visit to observe monastic life, walk the grounds, and experience a quiet, meditative atmosphere outside the urban core.

Getting There

Located northeast of the city centre, the site is reachable by taxi in roughly 30 to 50 minutes depending on traffic. Public buses run to the nearby Boudhanath area, followed by a 20-minute uphill walk or short local taxi ride.

Time to Spend

Allow 1 to 2 hours for a standard visit to explore the grounds, stupas, and main prayer hall. Those attending introductory meditation or teaching sessions should set aside half a day.

When to Visit

Mornings offer the calmest atmosphere and clearest valley views. The dry seasons—autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May)—are the best times of year to visit. Crowds are rare on weekdays, though visitor numbers increase on weekends and Buddhist holidays.

Nearby Attractions

You can combine a visit with several nearby destinations:

  • Gokarneshwor Mahadev temple (2.3km)
  • The Taragaon Museum (2.5km)
  • Chabahil (3.3km)
  • Charumati Stupa (3.4km)

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

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Stays near Kopan Monastery

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Good to visit alongside

Gokarneshwor Mahadev temple

Temples & religious sites

Gokarneshwor Mahadev temple

This Hindu temple stands near the village of Gokarna in the Kathmandu Valley, with a lingam dedicated to Shiva enshrined in its main sanctuary. It's a rewarding place to explore, with numerous statues and stone carvings scattered throughout the grounds.

2.3 km away
The Taragaon Museum

Museums & galleries

The Taragaon Museum

A private gallery located near Boudhanath Stupa in Kathmandu, on the grounds of the Taragaon Regency Hotel. It is run with support from the Saraf Foundation.

2.5 km away
Chabahil

Shopping & districts

Chabahil

Chabahil is an old neighborhood in northeastern Kathmandu, known for the Dhando Chaitya, considered the valley's oldest Buddhist stupa. It has a lively mix of commerce and residences, and pairs well with a visit to nearby Pashupatinath Temple.

3.3 km away
Charumati Stupa

Temples & religious sites

Charumati Stupa

Charumati Stupa is a Buddhist stupa in Kathmandu, also known by the name Dhando Chaitya. Its quiet, humble atmosphere offers a close look at traces of local faith.

3.4 km away
Guhyeshwari Temple

Temples & religious sites

Guhyeshwari Temple

Guhyeshwari Temple is a Hindu temple on the banks of the Bagmati River, near Pashupatinath. It is regarded as one of the Shakti Peethas and continues to draw Tantric pilgrims.

3.6 km away
Pashupatinath Temple

Temples & religious sites

Pashupatinath Temple

Pashupatinath Temple is a Hindu temple on the banks of the Bagmati River, east of Kathmandu. Known as a sacred site dedicated to Shiva, it draws pilgrims from all over the world.

3.8 km away