Kopan Monastery sits on a hilltop north of Boudhanath, looking out over the Kathmandu Valley. Founded by Lama Thubten Yeshe and Lama Zopa Rinpoche around 1970, it is home to hundreds of monks and nuns and is famous worldwide for its meditation and Buddhism courses for visitors, including a long-running month-long course in late autumn.
Quick answer: Kopan is about 20–30 minutes by taxi from Boudhanath, or a walk uphill. Visit the gompa and gardens, join a short meditation course, or book the longer residential courses in advance. Dress modestly and keep quiet in the grounds.
Kopan Monastery at a glance
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Hill north of Boudhanath, Kathmandu |
| Tradition | Tibetan Buddhism (Gelug) |
| Founded | Around 1970 |
| Known for | Meditation and Buddhism courses |
| Access | 20–30 minutes from Boudhanath |
Visiting
- Visit the gompa and gardens with valley views.
- Join a short introductory course; longer courses need advance booking.
- Dress modestly and follow the monastery's rules.
Trips and guides
Plan your visit
Kopan is a peaceful introduction to Tibetan Buddhism. Contact us and our Kathmandu team will help you plan it.