Kopan Monastery was founded in the early 70s by Lama Zopa Rinpoche and Lama Yeshe in Kathmandu, as a Tibetan Buddhist Monastery. People around the world visit this Temple for meditation & get a mindfulness retreat. This is an ideal place for those who are looking for Spiritual guidance & inner peace. They provide courses & retreat programs under the supervision of the Lama.
Boudhanath Stupa Table Of Contents
The History of Kopan Monastery
Kopan Monastery has an amazing history. It was seeded in 1960 & then turned into a spiritual retreat location for people around the world. To take you through how this Monastery was build we have summarise it for you to understand quicker.
- 1960s – The Seeds of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal: After fleeing Tibet during the Chinese invasion, Lama Thubten Yeshe and Lama Zopa Rinpoche began teaching Buddhism to a growing group of Western seekers in Nepal.
- 1969 – Birth of Kopan Monastery: The Lamas acquired a hilltop property once owned by the royal astrologer of Nepal. With stunning views of the Kathmandu Valley, it became Kopan Monastery, named after the hill it stands on.
- 1971 – First Annual November Meditation Course: Kopan gained global attention when it started hosting 10-day introductory meditation courses, drawing hundreds of students from around the world. These retreats became iconic for spiritual travelers.
- 1975 – Formation of the Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition (FPMT): To manage growing interest and global reach, the Lamas founded the FPMT, which now operates centers worldwide with Kopan as its spiritual heart.
- 1990s–Present – Spiritual Training & Monastic Education; Kopan evolved into a full-fledged monastic university, training hundreds of monks and nuns in Buddhist philosophy, debate, and meditation, while continuing to welcome international visitors.
Pooja Time In Kopan Monastery
Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Morning puja begins at 5:30 AM.
Entry Restrictions: Visitors are welcome year-round; however, access may be limited during special retreats or ceremonies. Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) offer the most pleasant weather and opportunities to join teachings or courses. Attire: Modest clothing is essential. Men should wear shirts that cover the shoulders and pants or long shorts. Women should avoid revealing attire and are encouraged to wear knee-length or longer clothing that covers shoulders; a shawl is recommended.
Photography: Allowed in outdoor areas. Avoid flash indoors, and always request permission before photographing monks or ceremonies.
Pooja Time In Kopan Monastery
Opening Hours: The Monastery is open for visitation from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Pooja is done by monks at 5:30 am.
Entry Restrictions: Visitors are welcome at the Monastery year-round. However, access to certain areas may be restricted during special retreats or ceremonies.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) offer the most pleasant weather and opportunities to join teachings or courses.
Attire: Modest clothing is essential. Men should wear shirts that cover the shoulders and pants or long shorts. Women should avoid revealing attire and are encouraged to wear knee-length or longer clothing that covers shoulders, and a shawl is recommended.
Photography: Allowed in outdoor areas. Avoid flash indoors, and always request permission before photographing monks or ceremonies.
Right Time to Visit Kopan Monastery
A Visit to Kopan Monastery is a peaceful journey into the spiritual serenity of the Himalayas. On special occasions like Losar in February/March or other special days of Buddha, provide a very special experience to anyone who visits the Monastery. The time you choose to visit can deeply shape your experience. Here’s a seasonal guide to help you plan your ideal visit.
Best Time of Year to Visit Kopan Monastery
| Season | Months | Experience Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | March – May | Pleasant weather, blooming gardens, perfect for outdoor exploration and joining meditation retreats |
| Autumn | September – November | Clear skies, vibrant landscapes, ideal for sightseeing and peaceful reflection |
| Winter | December – February | Cold mornings, tranquil surroundings, fewer crowds, great for solitude and deep contemplation |
| Monsoon | June – August | Lush greenery, spiritual quiet, but expect heavy rains and slippery paths |
Myth vs. Fact
Myth 1: Kopan Monastery is only for monks and not open to the public.
Fact: While Kopan is a functioning monastery, it welcomes visitors for day visits, courses, and retreats. The monastery offers various programs aimed at introducing Buddhism to people from all walks of life.
Myth 2: Photography is strictly prohibited within the monastery premises.
Fact: Photography is allowed in most areas of the monastery. However, visitors should refrain from using flash inside meditation halls and always ask for permission before photographing individuals or during ceremonies.